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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Library Technician

💰 $35,000 - $55,000

Library ServicesEducationInformation ManagementPublic Administration

🎯 Role Definition

A Library Technician is the operational backbone of a library, ensuring a seamless, positive, and efficient experience for all patrons. This role is a dynamic blend of direct public service, technical processing, and organizational support. Working under the supervision of a librarian, the Library Technician is often the first point of contact for visitors, providing critical assistance and guidance. They are responsible for the day-to-day circulation of materials, the maintenance and organization of collections, and the basic technical support that keeps a modern library funcionamento. More than just a support role, the Library Technician is a proactive problem-solver and a guardian of a welcoming and accessible learning environment, directly contributing to the library's mission of fostering knowledge and community engagement.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Library Assistant or Library Page
  • Customer Service Representative (in a related field)
  • Bookstore Clerk or Retail Associate

Advancement To:

  • Senior Library Technician or Library Supervisor
  • Librarian (with a Master of Library Science degree)
  • Archivist or Records Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Records Management Technician
  • Museum Technician or Curatorial Assistant
  • Data Entry or Information Clerk

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Manages all circulation desk activities, including checking library materials in and out, renewing items, and accurately processing fines and fees using the Integrated Library System (ILS).
  • Registers new patrons, issues library cards, and meticulously updates patron records to ensure data integrity and confidentiality.
  • Provides direct, front-line reference and technology assistance to patrons, skillfully guiding them in locating materials, using the online catalog, and accessing digital resources and databases.
  • Responds to a high volume of patron inquiries in person, over the phone, and via email with professionalism, accuracy, and a strong customer service orientation.
  • Accurately sorts, shelves, and shelf-reads library materials according to Dewey Decimal or Library of Congress classification systems to ensure collections are orderly and accessible.
  • Processes, prepares, and mends new and existing library materials, including aflixing labels, barcodes, and security tags, and performing minor repairs to extend ahe life of the collection.
  • Manages the interlibrary loan (ILL) service by processing both borrowing and lending requests, packaging materials for shipment, and tracking them through a national or regional network.
  • Interprets and clearly communicates library policies and procedures to the public, calmly and effectively enforcing rules to maintain a safe and respectful environment for all.
  • Troubleshoots and provides first-level technical support for public-access computers, printers, copiers, and other library equipment, escalating complex issues as necessary.
  • Assists librarians in the development and execution of library programs, workshops, and community outreach events for all ages, from story time to technology classes.
  • Processes incoming periodicals, journals, and newspapers, ensuring they are properly checked in, displayed for public use, and managed according to retention schedules.
  • Assists in the ongoing process of collection maintenance, including identifying materials for weeding, repair, or replacement based on usage statistics and physical condition.
  • Compiles and generates statistical reports on circulation, patron registration, program attendance, and other key metrics using the ILS and other software tools.
  • Operates and maintains audiovisual equipment for library programs and public meeting room use, providing basic instruction to patrons and staff.
  • Assists with opening and closing procedures for the library facility, ensuring the building is secure fatores and ready for public service.

Secondary Functions

  • Assists in the creation and installation of engaging library displays, exhibits, and promotional materials to highlight collections and services.
  • Participates actively in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities to stay current with library trends and technologies.
  • Supports special projects लक्ष्यed at collection inventory, data cleanup, or ahe implementation of new library services and technologies.
  • Contributes to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible atmosphere for a diverse community of library users.
  • Performs basic bibliographic searches to verify ahe accuracy of catalog records and assist with copy cataloging tasks under the supervision of a librarian.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Integrated Library System (ILS): Proficiency in using ILS software (e.g., Sierra, Alma, Polaris, Koha) for circulation, patron management, and basic cataloging.
  • Classification Systems: Working knowledge of Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) and/or Library of Congress (LC) classification for shelving and organization.
  • Database Searching: Skill in navigating and searching a variety of online databases, digital archives, and the library's online public access catalog (OPAC).
  • MARC Records: Basic understanding of Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC) records and their结构 for copy cataloging and record maintenance.
  • Office Productivity Suite: Competency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) or Google Workspace for creating documents, managing data, and communication.
  • Basic IT Troubleshooting: Ability to diagnose and resolve common issues with computers, printers, scanners, and other standard office and library equipment.

Soft Skills

  • Customer Service Excellence: A genuine passion for helping people with a patient, friendly, and approachable demeanor, even in challenging situations.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous accuracy in aasks such as shelving, data entry, and processing materials to ensure the integrity of the library's systems and collections.
  • Organizational Skills: The ability to multitask effectively, prioritize a constantly-shifting workload, and maintain an orderly work environment.
  • Communication: Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills for interacting with the public, colleagues, and supervisors.
  • Problem-Solving: The resourcefulness to independently handle patron issues and operational snags, and the judgment to know when to escalate them.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: A cooperative spirit and the ability to work продукively as part of a team to achieve shared library goals.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED, supplemented by a Library Technician Certificate or equivalent college-level coursework.

Preferred Education:

Associate's Degree or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Library and Information Science/Technology
  • Liberal Arts
  • Education
  • Communications

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

1-3 years of experience in a public-facing role, preferably within a library, school, or other customer-intensive service environment.

Preferred:

Direct experience working in a public, academic, or special library setting. Hands-on experience with an Integrated Library System (ILS) and a proven track record of providing direct assistance to the public are highly desirable.

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