Library Technicians
What is a Library Technician?
Library Technicians are skilled professionals who support librarians in the management and organization of library resources. They perform a variety of tasks that include cataloging and classifying library materials, assisting patrons with inquiries, maintaining library databases, and ensuring the proper organization of physical and digital collections. Typically working in public, academic, or special libraries, Library Technicians help in the implementation of library programs and technology, often focusing on enhancing user access to information. They may also handle administrative duties, such as managing budgets, overseeing safety protocols, and conducting outreach initiatives to promote library services to the community. Their role is crucial in maintaining efficient library operations and providing essential support to both librarians and library users.
Tasks
- Reserve, circulate, renew, and discharge books and other materials.
- Answer routine telephone or in-person reference inquiries, referring patrons to librarians for further assistance, when necessary.
- Help patrons find and use library resources, such as reference materials, audio-visual equipment, computers, and other electronic resources and provide technical assistance when needed.
- Deliver and retrieve items throughout the library by hand or using pushcart.
- Process print and non-print library materials to prepare them for inclusion in library collections.
Technology Skills
-
Data base user interface and query software
- Ex Libris Group Aleph
- FileMaker Pro
- Microsoft Access
- National Library of Medicine Medline
-
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
-
Library software
- Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) databases
- SirsiDynix Symphony
- WebClarity Software BookWhere
- WorldCat
-
Word processing software
- HandyFile Find and Replace Text Aid Kit
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
-
Graphics or photo imaging software
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
Tools Used
- Microfiche or microfilm viewers
- Photocopiers
- Bar code reader equipment
-
Film projectors
-
Scanners
Knowledge
-
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.
-
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
-
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.
-
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
-
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.
Skills
-
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
-
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.
-
Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
-
Service Orientation
Actively looking for ways to help people.
-
Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Abilities
-
Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
-
Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
-
Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
-
Speech Clarity
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
-
Speech Recognition
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
-
Bachelor's degree
-
Associate's degree
-
Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
Work Activities
-
Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
-
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
-
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
-
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
-
Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Detailed Work Activities
- Process library materials.
- Provide information to the general public.
- Help patrons use library or archival resources.
- Maintain operational records.
- Classify materials according to standard systems.
Work Interests
-
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.
-
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
$27040.0 - $61620.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.