Library technicians assist librarians in organizing and finding information, requiring education and experience in library science, computer skills, and communication skills. They help patrons find books, magazines, and articles and may direct other staff members in larger libraries. While a high school diploma is the minimum requirement, higher education and experience in library settings can increase job prospects. Computer skills and communication skills are essential, and candidates must be prepared to start in entry-level positions before advancing.
Library technicians help librarians locate and organize information. To become a library technician, an individual usually needs a variety of education and experience related to library science. Computer skills, as well as strong communication skills, are also required for someone in this position.
A library technician’s primary job is to help patrons find information in a library, in the form of books, magazines and articles. Technicians are often supervised by senior librarians and sometimes work with other library assistants and volunteers. In large libraries, a library technician may be responsible for directing other staff members and planning customer activities.
There is no standard education required for library technicians. A high school diploma is generally the minimum accepted level of education for this job. Higher levels of education, such as a certificate or associate degree, are often preferred by employers. These types of programs often include courses in proper cataloging and organization of library materials.
If you want to become a library technician, you can increase your perceived value in the job market by gaining experience in library settings. Office experience as a library assistant or from another job in an office environment can be helpful in preparing for this position. Individuals can also voluntarily gain useful experience from a community school or library.
Computers play an increasingly predominant role in storing and retrieving information. For this reason, workers must have in-depth knowledge of different computer systems. Candidates for these positions must understand the fundamentals of databases and Internet searches. These computer skills are usually taught as part of degree programs or can be learned independently.
Communication skills are very important for people who want to become a library technician. People in this profession must be able to interact with a wide variety of users and help library visitors locate information. Workers can gain experience in written and spoken communication by taking university courses in these disciplines.
To get hired as a library technician, individuals usually must try to apply to several different libraries. A resume that lists education, experience, and skills is a valuable tool for gaining employment in this field. Candidates who can demonstrate specialized library training at the college level will have the best employment prospects. New technicians must be prepared to prove their skills in an entry-level position, such as a library circulation desk, before being promoted to more advanced positions.
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