Top 10 Careers for Avid Readers

By Aimee Hosler | Sep 12, 2011

If you're an avid reader who wants to carry your love of books and language into your professional life, you can't go wrong with the following careers. These top 10 careers for book worms make good use of your solid story telling abilities or appreciations. We've even included common entry-level training requirements, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

1. Publisher

You already love to read and know what you like, so why not make a living deciding which books are worth being published? The BLS has not published salary and career outlook data for publishers, but notes that prospects will be best for those dealing with books over magazines or newspapers.

2. Librarian

For a true book lover, the library can seem like a sacred place. Librarians do more than stock and check out books--they may also lead community events and activities, choose new books for the collection and even host children's story times. According to the BLS, a master's degree in library science is ideal preparation.

3. Web writer

Most avid readers tend to write well. The advantage of becoming a Web copywriter is that it's an incredibly flexible career that often allows you to work from home. A bachelor's degree in communications, journalism or a related field provides solid credentials.

4. Author

Those with solid writing and story-telling skills can transform their love of books into a high profile career writing them. Note, however, that competition can be fierce. While a degree in creative writing, English or literature isn't required, it can certainly help.

5. Editor

Behind every good writer is an even better editor. Editors aren't mere copy editors--a good editor is able to read and adapt copy in a way that benefits the reader's experience. A bachelor's or master's degree in English, journalism or a related field is a must.

6. English teacher

Why not nurture a love and respect for reading in today's young minds by becoming an English teacher? A bachelor's degree in education or a related field plus a teaching credential are required for this field.

7. College professor

While a high school English teacher typically tries to instill a love for books among children forced to be there, college professors often work with students who already love reading and choose to be there, which provides for much more invigorating discussions. A master's degree or beyond is a must.

8. Book shop owner

When it comes to choosing a profession that embraces books, earning your living selling them is a no brainer. While not all small business owners are formally trained, a degree in business or entrepreneurship can help tremendously.

9. Reporter

Love a juicy mystery? Reporters aren't just story tellers--they're on the cutting edge of the community's most important happenings. A bachelor's degree in journalism is usually sufficient for entry-level work as a journalist.

10. Court reporter

If you have a penchant for court room dramas, why not live them out every day in your work life? Good court reporters must have a knack for language and dialogue, something you've likely honed as a book worm. Licensing requirements for court reporters vary by state, but most require some degree of formal training.