Library Technicians

Also Called: Library Assistant, Library Associate, Library Technical Assistant (LTA), Library Technician

What 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.

  • 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.
Industry Areas:

Information Technology

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Work Context

  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
  • Face-to-Face Discussions
  • Electronic Mail
  • Telephone
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work

Tools

  • Microfiche or microfilm viewers
  • Photocopiers
  • Bar code reader equipment
  • Film projectors
  • Scanners

Technology

Data base user interface and query software
FileMaker Pro
Microsoft Access
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Library software
Online Computer Library Center OCLC
WebClarity Software BookWhere

The Education & Training You Need

Skills

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Service Orientation
  • Coordination

Knowledge

Business
customer service
administrative services
Arts and Humanities
English language
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
Education and Training
teaching and course design

Education

  • 30% Bachelor's degree
  • 28% Associate's degree
  • 17% Post-secondary certificate

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What are your training options on the pathway to this occupation?

Are You a Good Fit?

Occupation Traits

  • Conventional (Organizer)
  • Enterprising (Persuader)
  • Social (Helper)

Work Styles

  • Cooperation
  • Dependability
  • Integrity
  • Self Control
  • Attention to Detail
  • Concern for Others

Values

  • Relationships
  • Support
  • Working Conditions

Abilities

  • Verbal
  • Ideas and Logic

This is what Library Technicians across the country typically make.

$13.00 / hour
$27,040 /year

Entry Level

$18.90 / hour
$39,310 /year

Median Level

$29.62 / hour
$61,620 /year

Experienced Level

Income information reflects a regional average.
Income information reflects a national average.

This career’s National Job Outlook is

Below Average

Please be sure to verify the outlook of this occupation with your instructor.

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