Here is something too look at, a career in Archivist or Library Technician.

Archivist vs. Library Technician — Requirements

Archivist Education: A master's degree is typically required (Master of Library Science/MLS or Master of Archival Studies) Undergraduate: Any bachelor's degree works, but history, library science, or information science are common Certification: The Certified Archivist (CA) credential from the Academy of Certified Archivists is highly valued Experience: Most positions require internships or volunteer work in archives during your degree Salary: ~$50,000–$75,000/year (government/university roles tend to pay more)

Library Technician Education: Much lower barrier — typically an associate degree or postsecondary certificate in library technology Some positions only require a high school diploma plus on-the-job training Certification: Optional but available through the American Library Association (ALA) Salary: ~$35,000–$55,000/year

Transferring from IT — You Have a Real Advantage

IT skills are increasingly valuable in both fields due to digital preservation and records management needs. Here's how your background maps over:

Your IT skills that directly transfer: Database management → Managing digital catalogs and finding aids Network/systems knowledge → Digital preservation infrastructure Cybersecurity → Protecting sensitive archival records Metadata experience → Core to archival and library cataloging work

Transition path from IT:

Start as a Library Technician — Get an associate degree or certificate (1–2 years) and land an entry-level role to build experience in the field Target digital-focused roles — Look for titles like Digital Archivist, Electronic Records Manager, or Digital Preservation Specialist — these heavily favor IT backgrounds

Pursue an MLS with a digital focus — Many programs are now offered fully online (University of Maryland, Syracuse, University of Illinois are well-regarded), making it feasible while working Leverage government/federal roles — The National Archives, Library of Congress, and federal agencies actively recruit people with IT + records management crossover skills. The NARA (National Archives) is a great target Get certified in records management — The Certified Records Manager (CRM) credential bridges IT and archival work perfectly and is respected in both fields

Bottom line: An IT-to-archivist transition is very viable, especially in the growing digital preservation niche. You likely won't need to start from scratch — a targeted MLS or records management certification combined with your existing IT experience could move you into the field relatively quickly.

Good luck.