Library Tech / Assistant

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.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Circulation Clerk; Library Aide; Library Assistant; Library Associate; Library Clerk; Library Media Technician; Library Specialist; Library Technical Assistant (LTA); Library Technician; Page Technician

Tasks

• 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.
• Enter and update patrons' records on computers.
• 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.
• Collect fines and respond to complaints about fines.
• Train other staff, volunteers, or student assistants and schedule and supervise their work.
• Conduct reference searches, using printed materials and in-house and online databases.

Knowledge

• Customer and Personal Service
• English Language
• Administrative
• Computers and Electronics
• Education and Training

Skills

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Learning Strategies

Abilities

• Oral Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Written Comprehension
• Near Vision
• Speech Recognition
• Speech Clarity
• Category Flexibility
• Written Expression
• Deductive Reasoning
• Information Ordering
• Far Vision