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Library Technicians

Assist librarians by helping readers in the use of library catalogs, databases, and indexes to locate books and other materials; and by answering questions that require only brief consultation of standard reference. Compile records; sort and shelve books or other media; remove or repair damaged books or other media; register patrons; and check materials in and out of the circulation process. Replace materials in shelving area (stacks) or files. Includes bookmobile drivers who assist with providing services in mobile libraries.

Median salary

$39,970

Typical range

$28k – $61k

Job outlook

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Education

Typical entry: Associate degree

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Typical progression

  1. Junior Library Technicians

    Entry / Junior

    $27,890

    ~2 yrs to advance

  2. Library Technicians

    Established

    $39,970

    ~3 yrs to advance

  3. Senior Library Technicians

    Senior

    $50,465

Key skills

A typical day

  • Reserve, circulate, renew, and discharge books and other materials.
  • 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.
  • Deliver and retrieve items throughout the library by hand or using pushcart.
  • Process print and non-print library materials to prepare them for inclusion in library collections.

Fields of study

Any field

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