What do Library Technicians 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.

  • Help patrons find and use library resources, such as reference materials, audiovisual equipment, computers and other electronic resources, and provide technical assistance when needed.
  • Answer routine telephone or in-person reference inquiries, referring patrons to librarians for further assistance, when necessary.
  • Process print and non-print library materials to prepare them for inclusion in library collections.
  • Reserve, circulate, renew, and discharge books and other materials.
  • 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.
  • Organize and maintain periodicals and reference materials.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot problems with library equipment including computers, photocopiers, and audiovisual equipment.
  • Deliver and retrieve items throughout the library by hand or using pushcart.
  • Train other staff, volunteers or student assistants, and schedule and supervise their work.
  • Order all print and non-print library materials, checking prices, figuring costs, preparing order slips, and making payments.
  • Process interlibrary loans for patrons.
  • Enter and update patrons' records on computers.
  • Retrieve information from central databases for storage in a library's computer.
  • Prepare volumes for binding.
  • Verify bibliographical data for materials, including author, title, publisher, publication date, and edition.
  • Review subject matter of materials to be classified, and select classification numbers and headings according to classification systems.
  • Issue identification cards to borrowers.
  • Send out notices about lost or overdue books.
  • Collect fines, and respond to complaints about fines.
  • Compile and maintain records relating to circulation, materials, and equipment.
  • Check for damaged library materials such as books, or audiovisual equipment, and provide replacements or make repairs.
  • Collaborate with archivists to arrange for the safe storage of historical records and documents.
  • Claim missing issues of periodicals and journals.
  • Conduct reference searches, using printed materials and in-house and online databases.
  • Take actions to halt disruption of library activities by problem patrons.
  • Plan and conduct children's programs, community outreach programs, and other specialized programs such as library tours.
  • File catalog cards according to system used.
  • Compile data and create statistical reports on library usage.
  • Design, customize, and maintain databases, web pages, and local area networks.
  • Operate and maintain audiovisual equipment such as projectors, tape recorders, and videocassette recorders.
  • Compose explanatory summaries of contents of books and other reference materials.
  • Compile bibliographies and prepare abstracts on subjects of interest to particular organizations or groups.
  • Design posters and special displays to promote use of library facilities or specific reading programs at libraries.

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Necessary Skills

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Service Orientation
  • Speaking
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Writing

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