Library Assistants, Clerical

What the job really is

Compile records, and sort, shelve, issue, and receive library materials such as books, electronic media, pictures, cards, slides and microfilm. Locate library materials for loan and replace material in shelving area, stacks, or files according to identification number and title. Register patrons to permit them to borrow books, periodicals, and other library materials.

At a glance

• Sector: Office & Administrative
• O*NET-SOC code: 43-4121
• O*NET job zone: 2 — some preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• 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.
• Manage reserve materials by placing items on reserve for library patrons, checking items in and out of library, and removing out-of-date items.
• Lend, reserve, and collect books, periodicals, videotapes, and other materials at circulation desks and process materials for inter-library loans.
• Instruct patrons on how to use reference sources, card catalogs, and automated information systems.
• Inspect returned books for condition and due-date status and compute any applicable fines.
• Maintain records of items received, stored, issued, and returned and file catalog cards according to system used.
• Perform clerical activities, such as answering phones, sorting mail, filing, typing, word processing, and photocopying and mailing out material.
• Register new patrons and issue borrower identification cards that permit patrons to borrow books and other materials.

Tools and technology

Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Photoshop, C++, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word, 10-key calculators, Automated circulation systems

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Library Technicians
• File Clerks
• Office Clerks, General
• Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive
• Document Management Specialists
• Stockers and Order Fillers
• Receptionists and Information Clerks
• Office Machine Operators, Except Computer

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 2 (some preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Library Assistants, Clerical — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.