What Does A Library Technical Assistant Do?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Library technicians and assistants

help shelve and organize materials

. Library technicians and assistants help librarians with all aspects of running a library. They assist patrons, organize library materials and information, and do clerical and administrative tasks.

What is the responsibility of a library assistant?

Library Assistants, or Library Clerks, are responsible

for assisting with the administration and organization of a library

. Their duties include helping library visitors find the right reference materials, processing interlibrary loans and signing up visitors for their own library card.

What is the difference between a library assistant and a library technician?

Library technicians and assistants usually help patrons find information and organize library materials. However, library technicians typically

have more responsibilities than

library assistants, such as administering library programs and overseeing lower level staff.

What do I need to become a library technical assistant?

Most library technicians need a

postsecondary certificate or an associate’s degree

. Library assistants typically need a high school degree and usually learn through short-term on-the-job (OTJ) training. Most libraries prefer to hire library technicians who have a postsecondary certificate or an associate’s degree.

What skills are needed for library technicians?

Expect to learn about acquisitions, cataloging, information literacy and research, and public services. The ALA maintains a list of Library Certificate and Degree Programs. Library technicians need

excellent computer skills

and must keep up with the continuously changing technology used in libraries.

How can I get a library job with no experience?

  1. Volunteer at Your Local Library.
  2. Serve on a Committee or Task Force.
  3. Do an Internship.
  4. Become active in Social Networking, LISTSERVS, and Message Boards.

Why do I want to be a library assistant?


Books and knowledge are my passion

. This role would allow me the chance to share that passion with others, to encourage them to be passionate about books and knowledge. I enjoy helping people, and I see this role as an opportunity to help library users.

How do I write a CV for a library assistant?

  1. Use one of our CV templates. …
  2. Leave off unnecessary personal information. …
  3. Write a strong work history section. …
  4. Offer detail in your qualifications section. …
  5. Include professional memberships. …
  6. Consider writing a separate skills section.

Is library assistant a good job?

Library assistants who excel in their area of work may make

excellent candidates

for a managerial position, such as a circulation manager or head of circulation. In public libraries, it is not unusual for a similar career path in the cataloging or “technical services” area.

How many hours do library assistants work?

While librarian assistants can have a part- or full-time schedule, they often work an

average of 35 hours per week

. Many librarian assistants work over the weekends and during the evenings. Though, some librarian assistants work normal office hours.

How much do librarians get paid?

Librarians make an average of

$27.15 per hour

in the United States. Across the nation, the typical librarian salary ranges from $7.25 per hour to $63.75 per hour. Factors like their geographic locations, experience level, education level and focus area affect librarians’ earning potential.

Do library technicians make good money?

State Avg. salary Hourly rate Alaska $39,695 $19.08 Arizona $34,885 $16.77 Arkansas $36,883 $17.73 California $43,405 $20.87

Do you need qualifications to work in a library?

You can apply for a job as a library assistant if you have some experience of working in a library, an archive or information service, for example as a volunteer. You may need

GCSEs grades 9

to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent, including English, to apply.

Where do library technicians work?

Library technicians are employed in

all types of libraries

: academic (college and university), public, school, and special (government, business, industry, the professions, etc.). They also work at library related jobs such as records management.

What jobs can a 13 year old get?

  • Babysitter. Babysitting is a fantastic job for 13-year-olds. …
  • Lawn mower or gardener. If your 13-year-old loves spending time outside, working as a lawn mower or gardener is a fantastic option. …
  • Dog walker. …
  • House or pet sitter. …
  • Tutor. …
  • Car washer. …
  • Junior camp counselor. …
  • Newspaper deliverer.

How should I dress for a library assistant interview?

If in doubt, wear

a suit or at least a pair of dress slacks or skirt and a matching tailored shirt or blouse

. If your shoes are scuffed, dirty and in need of some TLC, they tell the interviewer that you don’t care about your appearance or that you didn’t take the time to prepare.

Carlos Perez
Author
Carlos Perez
Carlos Perez is an education expert and teacher with over 20 years of experience working with youth. He holds a degree in education and has taught in both public and private schools, as well as in community-based organizations. Carlos is passionate about empowering young people and helping them reach their full potential through education and mentorship.