LIBRARY TECHNICIANS

Nature of the Work

Library technicians help librarians acquire, prepare, and organize material, and assist users in finding materials and information. Technicians in small libraries handle a wide range of duties; those in large libraries usually specialize.  Depending on the employer, library technicians may have other titles, such as library technical assistants.  Technicians assist in the use of public catalogs, direct library users to standard references, organize and maintain periodicals, handle interlibrary loan requests, perform routine cataloging and coding of library materials, verify information on order requests, retrieve information from computer data bases, and supervise other support staff, such as circulation desk workers. 

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

Training requirements for library technicians vary widely, ranging from a high school diploma to postsecondary training as a library technician.  Some libraries may require that tecnicians have a bachelor's degree.  Employers may hire individuals with work experience or other training, or may train inexperienced workers on the job.  Given the widespread use of automation in libraries, computer skills are needed for many jobs.

Job Outlook

Employment of library technicians is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005.  The increasing use of library automation may spur job growth among library technicians.  Computerized information systems have simplified certain tasks, such as descriptive cataloging, which can now be handled by technicians instead of librarians.  However, budgetary constraints may dampen employment growth of library technicians in school, public, and college and university libraries. 

Earnings

Salaries for library technicians vary widely, depending on the type of library and geographic location.  Salaries of library technicians in the Federal Government averaged $23,900 in 1993.

Additional information can be obtained by contacting the following organizations:

Council on Library/Media Technicians, P.O.  Box 951, Oxon Hill, MD 20750.

American Library Association, Office for Library Personnel Resources, 50 East Huron St., Chicago, IL 60611.

Office of Educational Research and Improvement, Library Programs, Library Development Staff, U.S.  Department of Education, 555 New Jersey Ave.  NW., Washington, DC 20208-5571.

Office of Personnel Management, 1900 E St.  NW., Washington, DC 20415.

Personnel Office, Library of Congress, Washington, DC 20540. 

State library agencies can furnish information on requirements for technicians, and general information about career prospects in the State.  Several of these agencies maintain job hotlines which report openings for library technicians.

State departments of education can furnish information on requirements and job opportunities for school library technicians.


