Library Technicians

What the job really is

Assist librarians by helping readers in the use of library catalogs, databases, and indexes to locate books and other materials; and by answering questions that require only brief consultation of standard reference. Compile records; sort and shelve books or other media; remove or repair damaged books or other media; register patrons; and check materials in and out of the circulation process. Replace materials in shelving area (stacks) or files. Includes bookmobile drivers who assist with providing services in mobile libraries.

At a glance

• Sector: Education & Library
• O*NET-SOC code: 25-4031
• O*NET job zone: 3 — medium preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Enter and update patrons' records on computers.
• 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.
• Catalogue and sort books and other print and non-print materials according to procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
• Provide assistance to teachers and students by locating materials and helping to complete special projects.
• Compile and maintain records relating to circulation, materials, and equipment.
• Take actions to halt disruption of library activities by problem patrons.
• Maintain and troubleshoot problems with library equipment, including computers, photocopiers, and audio-visual equipment.
• Check for damaged library materials, such as books or audio-visual equipment, and provide replacements or make repairs.

Tools and technology

Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word, Adobe Dreamweaver

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Library Assistants, Clerical
• File Clerks
• Office Clerks, General
• Document Management Specialists
• Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive
• Stockers and Order Fillers
• Receptionists and Information Clerks
• Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 3 (medium preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

Browse the verified job sources directory, or explore more occupations.

Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Library Technicians — 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.