Library Assistants, Clerical

Also called : Acquisitions Assistant, Cataloging Assistant, Library Aide, Library Assistant, Library Associate, Library Circulation Assistant, Library Clerical Assistant, Library Clerk, Library Services Assistant

What they 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.

On the job, one would

Operate and maintain audio-visual equipment.

Place books in mailing containers, affix address labels, and secure containers with straps for mailing to blind library patrons.

Design or maintain library web site and online catalogues.

Acquire books, pamphlets, periodicals, audio-visual materials, and other library supplies by checking prices, figuring costs, and preparing appropriate order forms and facilitating the ordering process by providing such information to others.

KNOWLEDGE

Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Administrative
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.

English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

SKILLS

Service Orientation
Actively looking for ways to help people.

Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

ABILITIES

Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

Information Ordering
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).

Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

PERSONALITY

People interested in this work, will do well at jobs that need;

Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.

Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.

Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.

Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.

Concern for Others
Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.

Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.

Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.

Independence
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.

Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.

Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.

Related Occupations

Court, Municipal, and License Clerks

Interviewers, Except Eligibility and Loan

Data Entry Keyers

Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks

Receptionists and Information Clerks

Office Clerks, General

TECHNOLOGY

Data base user interface and query software

Desktop publishing software

Document management software

Electronic mail software

Graphics or photo imaging software

Information retrieval or search software

Internet browser software

Library software

Object or component oriented development software

Office suite software

Operating system software

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Preparation
Some Preparation Needed
Education
High school diploma.
Experience
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed.
Jobtraining
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.