Library Technician
What is a Library Technician? 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.
A Day in the Life of a Library Technician
- Maintain and troubleshoot problems with library equipment, including computers, photocopiers, and audio-visual equipment.
- Answer routine telephone or in-person reference inquiries, referring patrons to librarians for further assistance, when necessary.
- Deliver and retrieve items throughout the library by hand or using pushcart.
- Retrieve information from central databases for storage in a library’s computer.
- Compile and maintain records relating to circulation, materials, and equipment.
- Verify bibliographical data for materials, including author, title, publisher, publication date, and edition.
Things a Library Technician Should Know How to Do
- Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
- Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Service Orientation: Actively looking for ways to help people.
- Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
- Coordination: Adjusting actions in relation to others’ actions.