A great day at work would include putting books, magazines, CD's, and DVD's in the right order back onto the shelves where they came from. In addition to that, I would do some shifting (moving books around so that they can fit), shelf-reading (checking to see if the books are in the right order), and weeding (getting rid of old outdated books that no longer fit). I might also assist my boss in doing a community activity or a special library program!
CAREER
Library Assistants, Clerical
Overview
Salary Median (2020)
$28,730
Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)
-3.8% (decline)
Most Common Level of Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Career
Roadtrip Nation Leaders in This Career
What Library Assistants, Clerical Do
Compile records, and 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.
Other Job Titles Library Assistants, Clerical May Have
Acquisitions Assistant, Cataloging Assistant, Library Aide, Library Assistant, Library Associate, Library Circulation Assistant, Library Clerical Assistant, Library Clerk, Library Services Assistant
How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work
Tasks & Responsibilities May Include
- Sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
- Open and close library during specified hours and secure library equipment, such as computers and audio-visual equipment.
- Locate library materials for patrons, including books, periodicals, tape cassettes, Braille volumes, and pictures.
- Enter and update patrons' records on computers.
- Answer routine inquiries and refer patrons in need of professional assistance to librarians.
Education
Level of Education Attained by Library Assistants, Clerical
Most common level of education among people in
this career: Bachelor's degree (34%)
High school diploma or equivalent
Some college, no degree
Bachelor's degree
Other*
*All other responses combined for clarity.
Educational Paths Suggested by Leaders
Suggested Path
Bachelor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
Additional Skills & Experiences That Can Help You Excel
Skills: Accuracy, reliability, organization, dedication, systematic methodical way of thinking. Training: I have a job coach who assists me with my tasks due to my learning disability which often prevents me from focusing and concentrating fully. This primarily serves as a back-up even though I can basically do the tasks by myself. Experience: None really.
Getting Started
Recommended First Step for:
College Students
Develop a methodical systematic way of doing things, get acclimated with the Dewey Decimal System, and get a variety of interests (academic). Become familiar with different genres and authors.
This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
