Library Technicians
Library Assistant, Library Associate, Library Technical Assistant (LTA), Library Technician
What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
- 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.
Knowledge
Business
- customer service
- administrative services
Arts and Humanities
- English language
Engineering and Technology
- computers and electronics
Education and Training
- teaching and course design
Skills
Basic Skills
- reading work related information
- listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Social
- looking for ways to help people
- changing what is done based on other people's actions
Abilities
Verbal
- communicate by speaking
- listen and understand what people say
Ideas and Logic
- group things in different ways
- order or arrange things
Personality
People interested in this work like activities that include data, detail, and regular routines.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Cooperation
- Dependability
- Integrity
- Self Control
- Attention to Detail
- Concern for Others
Technology
You might use software like this on the job:
Data base user interface and query software
- FileMaker Pro
- Microsoft Access
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Library software
- Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) databases
- WebClarity Software BookWhere
Education
Education: (rated 3 of 5)
bachelor's degree or
associate's degree
usually needed
associate's degree
usually needed
Job Outlook
Below Average
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.
Explore More
- Database Administrators
- Document Management Specialists
- File Clerks
- Library Assistants, Clerical
- Office Clerks, General
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See more details at O*NET OnLine about library technicians.