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Library Technicians
Also called : Circulation Clerk, Library Aide, Library Assistant, Library Associate, Library Clerk, Library Media Technician, Library Specialist, Library Technical Assistant (LTA), Library Technician, Page Technic
What they do
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 providi
On the job, one would
- 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.
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.
- English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- 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.
- Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
SKILLS
- Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
- 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.
- Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Service Orientation
Actively looking for ways to help people.
- Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
ABILITIES
- Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
- Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
- Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
- Speech Clarity
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
- Speech Recognition
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
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.
- Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
- 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.
- Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress 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.
- Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
TECHNOLOGY
- Data base user interface and query software
- Desktop publishing software
- Document management software
- Electronic mail software
- Graphics or photo imaging software
- Internet browser software
- Library software
- Office suite software
- Operating system software
- Presentation software
- Spreadsheet software
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
- Preparation
Medium Preparation Needed
- Education
Training in vocational schools or an Associate deg
- Experience
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.
- Jobtraining
Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.