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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Library Technicians.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Library Technicians.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: -4%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
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.
Reserve, circulate, renew, and discharge books and other materials.
Becoming a Library Technician is an attractive career path for those who love books, enjoy organizing information, and have a passion for assisting others in their quest for knowledge. If you're considering this profession, here's a step-by-step guide on how to pursue a career as a Library Technician.
Before diving into the educational requirements and skills needed, it's important to know what a Library Technician does. Library Technicians typically work in public libraries, academic institutions, and private organizations, assisting librarians in the management of library resources. Their duties often include:
To become a Library Technician, you will typically need to meet the following educational criteria:
Hands-on experience is invaluable in this field. Consider the following ways to gain experience:
Library Technicians need a combination of technical and interpersonal skills:
Some states or employers may require Library Technicians to obtain certification. Check with your local state library association or employer for specific requirements. The ALA-APA (American Library Association-Allied Professional Association) offers certification for some library support staff roles.
The field of library science is continuously evolving with new technologies and resources. Staying current with trends and advancements in the field is important:
By following these steps and dedicating yourself to lifelong learning, you can build a fulfilling career as a Library Technician. Remember that each step is an opportunity to grow professionally and contribute to the vital resource that libraries represent in our communities.
Becoming a Library Technician typically requires a post-secondary education, but the exact requirements can vary depending on the employer and the specific job. Most often, candidates will need:
To be successful as a Library Technician, you should possess a mix of hard and soft skills, including:
Yes, there are opportunities for advancement within library systems for technicians. Some pathways include:
Library Technicians work in a variety of settings, each with its own atmosphere and clientele:
Certification requirements for Library Technicians vary by region and employer. Some regions may require:
For authoritative information on certification requirements, visit websites like the American Library Association or your local state library association.
The job outlook for Library Technicians can fluctuate based on factors such as government funding and technological advancements. However, typical trends include:
For current job outlook statistics, refer to government employment sites like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Technology plays a significant role in modern libraries, affecting the responsibilities of Library Technicians:
Joining professional organizations can be beneficial for networking, professional development, and staying current with industry trends. Some notable organizations include:
Membership in these organizations often provides access to exclusive job listings, continuing education programs, and networking opportunities.