Types of Jobs Performed in a Library

by Maria Christensen
Librarians often help patrons with research and technology issues.

Librarians often help patrons with research and technology issues.

Jupiterimages, Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images

It might seem that the only people working in a library are librarians, but it takes a range of occupations to keep the place running smoothly. Like most businesses, libraries can employ accountants, secretaries and human resources personnel, but those aren’t your only options if you aren’t a full-fledged librarian. While librarians need a master's degree in library science, you can still work at a number of book and customer service related tasks without the degree.

Customer Service

Library technicians and assistants perform a wide range of duties, depending on their level of education and on the size, type and needs of the library. In many libraries, they're usually the people you see behind a checkout desk or answering questions. Working as an assistant or technician, you might help patrons find books or other media, place interlibrary loan requests and reserve items, or issue new library cards, collect fees and answer phone calls. Librarians with a degree take on more complex duties, such as organizing group activities, teaching classes and seminars, providing homework and research help, and assisting patrons with disabilities.

Administrative

A lot of the work in a library goes on behind the scenes, from stocking shelves to filing paperwork. While a part-time high school or college student might return books to their proper places, a library technician might catalog and process new books and other media as they arrive. Librarians keep catalogs and databases up-to-date, and organize special collections. Librarians working in corporate or specialized libraries may spend considerable time archiving important materials.

Technical

Libraries offer a range of technical services in addition to traditional media such as books and DVDs. Many offer members free computer use and e-book rentals, among other offerings. Technical support staff in the library work at setting up and maintaining computer networks, databases, Internet access and websites. They might monitor online services, such as those allowing library cardholders to place holds on books or request interlibrary loans. Some libraries provide self-checkout equipment for customers that must be maintained. Technical services coordinators or supervisors might also teach public classes on the use of computers and software programs. Digital librarians specialize in organizing materials and collections for public access online.

Management

Librarians working on the management end of things hold degrees and may take on a wide range of duties if the library is small, or specialize if it's large. Tasks can include increasing a library's collection, creating programs for students or the public, scheduling and training library assistants and other employees, and working in public relations. With a degree and some experience, you might help develop and maintain a library budget, work on fundraising campaigns and community outreach programs.

About the Author

Since 1997, Maria Christensen has written about business, history, food, culture and travel for diverse publications. She ran her own business writing employee handbooks and business process manuals for small businesses, authored a guidebook to Seattle, and works as an accountant for a software company. Christensen studied communications at the University of Washington and history at Armstrong Atlantic State University.

Photo Credits

  • Jupiterimages, Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
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