Library Assistants, Clerical

Compile records, sort, shelve, issue, and receive library materials such as books, electronic media, pictures, cards, slides and microfilm. Locate library materials for loan and replace material in shelving area, stacks, or files according to identification number and title. Register patrons to permit them to borrow books, periodicals, and other library materials.

Median Annual Wage: $23,910

Education: High school diploma or equivalent (52%); Associate's degree (21%); Some college, no degree (14%)

Projected Growth: Faster than average (15% to 21%)

Related Job Titles: Library Assistant; Library Aide; Library Clerk; Library Technical Assistant; Acquisitions Assistant; Library Circulation Assistant; Library Services Assistant; Circulation Supervisor; Library Clerical Assistant; Cataloging Assistant

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Library Assistants, Clerical.

More Office and Administrative Support Careers

  • Open and close library during specified hours and secure library equipment, such as computers and audio-visual (AV) equipment.
  • Locate library materials for patrons, including books, periodicals, tape cassettes, Braille volumes, and pictures.
  • Answer routine inquiries and refer patrons in need of professional assistance to librarians.
  • Maintain records of items received, stored, issued, and returned and file catalog cards according to system used.
  • Perform clerical activities, such as answering phones, sorting mail, filing, typing, word processing, and photocopying and mailing out material.
  • Process new materials including books, audio-visual materials, and computer software.
  • Provide assistance to librarians in the maintenance of collections of books, periodicals, magazines, newspapers, and audio-visual and other materials.
  • Take action to deal with disruptive or problem patrons.
  • Sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
  • Schedule, supervise, and train clerical workers, volunteers, student assistants, and other library employees.
  • Maintain library equipment, such as photocopiers, scanners, and computers, and instruct patrons in proper use of such equipment.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Library Assistants, Clerical.

  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  • Social Perceptiveness - Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Library Assistants, Clerical.

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