Job Descriptions of a Library
"The traditional concept of a library is being redefined from a place to access paper records or books to one that also houses the most advanced electronic resources, including the Internet, digital libraries and remote access to a wide range of information sources," according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Workers in libraries have a variety of jobs to choose from, each requiring individual skills and offering different work conditions and salaries.
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Types of Libraries
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Someone planning to pursue a job in a library should consider the various types of libraries. Public libraries serve communities. Workers interact with people of all ages, interests and backgrounds. School libraries are located within a K-12 educational setting. Workers serve the needs of students and teachers. Academic libraries are located at colleges and universities. Workers specialize in more research-oriented materials and interact primarily with college students and professors. Special libraries also exist at medical and law facilities, requiring workers to have highly specialized knowledge of the materials in the collection.
Types of Library Jobs
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Libraries offer a variety of positions for workers. Shelvers are responsible for returning library materials to their proper locations. Technicians work behind the scenes, readying and repairing library materials. Circulation assistants work at the front counter, using computers to check out library items to patrons. Reference assistants work at the reference desk answering questions and helping patrons locate materials. Librarians may work at the circulation or reference desks, overseeing the assistants. Administrators manage the overall operations of the library system.
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Education & Salaries
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The education requirements and salary received at a library job depend upon the type of job you have. For entry-level positions, such as shelving or circulation assistant, you will need a high school diploma or some hours of college credit. You will earn minimum wage or slightly more. For higher-level positions, such as librarian or administration, you will need a college degree. People with a MLS (Master of Library Science) are eligible for more selective jobs with higher salaries. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, librarians earned between $33,000 and $81,000 annually. The median income in 2008 was $52,530.
Work Conditions
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Most libraries have two basic work environments. Some library jobs involve working with the public. With these jobs, you will be physically active while completing tasks such as shelving books, working at the circulation counter or showing patrons where to find items. Some library jobs are located behind-the-scenes and don't involve working with the public. These involve more desk work, with minimal activity.
Necessary Skills
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If you are seeking a job in a library, it is helpful to be familiar with books and libraries. Although you don't have to have read every book in the library, having a general knowledge of books is handy. You should also understand how libraries are organized by the Dewey Decimal System or Library of Congress method. If you will be working a circulation or reference position, you will need good customer service skills. School librarians should have teaching experience or an understanding of school curriculum and student management. For most library positions, computer skills are required because you will be using automated library management software.
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References
- Photo Credit library isle image by Katya Mikhlin from Fotolia.com
