Library Assistants, Clerical
What is a Library Assistants, Clerical?
Library Assistants, Clerical are essential support staff within library environments who assist in organizing and maintaining library resources. Their primary responsibilities include checking books in and out, organizing materials on shelves, assisting patrons in locating information, and performing clerical tasks such as answering phones, managing correspondence, and processing new materials. They help to ensure that library operations run smoothly by maintaining accurate records and providing assistance with patron inquiries. These assistants often work closely with librarians and other library staff to enhance the overall library experience for users, fostering a welcoming atmosphere and promoting literacy and education within the community. In addition to their clerical duties, they may also facilitate library programs and events, engage with patrons about library services, and contribute to the development of the library collection.
Tasks
- Sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
- Open and close library during specified hours and secure library equipment, such as computers and audio-visual equipment.
- Locate library materials for patrons, including books, periodicals, tape cassettes, Braille volumes, and pictures.
- Enter and update patrons' records on computers.
- Answer routine inquiries and refer patrons in need of professional assistance to librarians.
Technology Skills
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Data base user interface and query software
- Database software
- Microsoft Access
- Recordkeeping software
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Library software
- Cataloging software
- Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) databases
- ResourceMate Plus
- WorldCat
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Electronic mail software
- Microsoft Outlook
Tools Used
- Microfiche or microfilm viewers
- Photocopiers
- Bar code reader equipment
- Laminators
- Cargo trucks
Knowledge
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Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
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Administrative
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
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Psychology
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Skills
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Service Orientation
Actively looking for ways to help people.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Abilities
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Information Ordering
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Some college, no degree
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Associate's degree
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Detailed Work Activities
- Maintain security.
- Sort materials or products.
- Enter information into databases or software programs.
- Track goods or materials.
- Distribute materials to employees or customers.
Work Interests
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Social
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$23510.0 - $50200.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.