Becoming a Librarian Assistant
You’ve decided to become a librarian assistant! Congratulations! You’ll be working in an environment that helps people find the information they need, and you’ll be doing it in a library where you can explore your own interests. You’ll also get to work with books, which is pretty much everyone’s dream.
But how do you get there? Here’s what you need to know:
- Get your degree
Most librarian assistants have at least an associate’s degree in library science from an accredited institution. This will give you the foundation for all of the skills that are necessary for being a librarian assistant, like being able to use electronic databases and manage print collections. You don’t have to become a librarian yourself—just make sure that you’re prepared for whatever kind of job-specific training comes next.
- Do something fun
A lot of people who go into this field have some kind of personal interest in libraries or books or even just helping people find information they need. If this sounds like something that would motivate you while also helping other people out, then go for it! That’s one way to make sure that being a librarian assistant isn’t just another job but instead
How To Become Librarian Assistant
Libraries are learning institutions that often require several types of employees to run efficiently. One such position is a librarian assistant. Understanding what a librarian assistant does and how to become one can help you make an educated decision when choosing this career. In this article, we describe what librarian assistants are, list their typical duties and offer common steps for becoming one to help you decide whether this is the correct career for you.
See your instant resume report on Indeed
Get recommendations for your resume in minutes
What is a librarian assistant?
Librarian assistants are professionals who aid librarians in the day-to-day responsibilities of a library. Typically, library assistants do clerical work and other duties throughout the library to ensure it runs smoothly and remains clean and organized.
Librarian assistants report directly to a librarian and often work closely with a library technician to accomplish their necessary tasks. They can work in public libraries or those belonging to educational institutions, such as primary and secondary schools or universities and colleges.
Related: Guide for How To Become a Librarian
What does a librarian assistant do?
On a typical day, librarian assistants have many duties comprising completing office work, maintaining cleanliness and other tasks around the library. Their primary goal is to assist the librarian in completing all the day’s tasks in a timely and efficient manner and ensure a safe and quiet environment for patrons. Usual tasks for a librarian assistant include:
- Organize bookshelves
- Check books in and out
- Collect and replace books on the shelves
- Issue library cards
- Catalogue new stock, such as books, magazines and newspapers
- Help visitors find books and other materials
- Maintain office equipment
- Answer telephones
- Maintain library records, both physical and online
- Accept payment for late fees and other fines
- Maintain public computers for visitor use
- Cleaning
- Updating electronic Dewey Decimal system
Librarian assistant vs. library technician
Librarian assistants and library technicians work closely together and perform similar jobs. In some libraries, these two positions perform the same tasks. However, in many libraries, they are distinct positions.
Many libraries require their library technicians to have a library science or related certificate or degree. In these cases, library technicians hold more responsibility than assistants. They oversee library programs and activities, direct staff and manage the loaning of materials between libraries.
Skills for a librarian assistant
Librarian assistants require a combination of hard and soft skills to complete their daily tasks and help both librarians and library patrons. Skills helpful for completing librarian assistant duties include:
- Communication: Librarian assistants should understand tasks as described by the librarian, communicate well with library technicians and other staff to complete tasks and understand and communicate clearly with patrons who require help to use the facilities.
- Computer skills: Librarian assistants spend much of their time cataloguing books and other materials on the library’s computer system. They also use computers for checking books in and out, emailing patrons and other clerical duties.
- Interpersonal skills: Librarian assistants often have customer service duties when working with library patrons. It’s helpful to complete these tasks, such as checking out books, politely and respectfully.
- Organization: Many job duties of a librarian assistant involve organizing and alphabetizing books and other library materials and maintaining an office area, so an understanding of organizational methods is beneficial.
- A knowledge of books: Librarians expect their assistants to have a basic knowledge of different types of books, such as reference books, nonfiction and various genres and styles. This includes an understanding of how to use certain types of books, how to find them in the library and how to recommend books based on patron criteria.
Related: 3 Ways To Add Personal Skills To Your Resume
Salary for a librarian assistant
Librarian assistants earn an average of $25,338 per year. It might be helpful to note that a librarian assistant is sometimes a part-time job, so consider researching the details of the position at the hiring library before applying. Working part time vs. full time can have a significant impact on salary and benefits.
Top job searches near you
How to become a librarian assistant
For those interested in becoming a librarian assistant, there are a few common steps to achieving it as a career. If you want to know how to get started, consider these steps:
1. Earn a high school diploma or equivalent
Most libraries don’t require their librarian assistants to have any formal training or college education. However, most require a high school diploma as a minimum. You can also become a librarian assistant with a GED or other diploma equivalent.
Related: Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree
2. Learn about library sciences
Though a degree in library sciences isn’t necessary, any knowledge you may have about library sciences might be helpful to add on your resume. Not only does this help you learn about your chosen field, it shows your willingness to learn new skills and work on self-improvement.
There are many courses you can take online about library science, so consider doing an internet search to find one that works best for you. Alternatively, some local libraries may offer classes on relevant topics, so consider researching what’s available in your area.
3. Join a professional organization
Joining a professional organization, such as the American Library Association (ALA) may be beneficial to your career. Through organizations such as the ALA, you can network to find job openings. Other networking opportunities, such as finding a potential mentor, can also help you with your career. By meeting other professionals, you might also learn more about the specifics of the job or helpful tips on how to complete tasks more efficiently.
4. Volunteer
Most libraries don’t require experience when hiring librarian assistants. However, if you’d like something to improve your resume when applying, consider finding a volunteer position. Many libraries offer volunteer positions to help maintain the library or oversee library activities. Volunteering at a library also allows you to make contacts in the profession and has the potential to turn into a full-time position.
Outside of the library, helpful volunteer programs for becoming a librarian assistant include reading to children, tutoring and other educational or youth-based programs.
