Library Assistants, Clerical
Library Assistants, Clerical is the O*NET name for people who compile records, and sort, shelve, issue, and receive library materials such as books, electronic media, pictures, cards, slides and microfilm. The skills rated most useful are service orientation, reading comprehension, and active listening. One core duty is to sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas. On the six-type interest model it reads CSR, meaning orderly work with data, records and clear procedures comes first, followed by helping, teaching or caring for people. Getting in usually takes a few months to a year of learning on the job, a level O*NET calls some preparation. It tends to suit people who want orderly work with data, records and clear procedures, and it offers little for anyone seeking creative work with room for original expression.
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.
Main tasks
- Sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
- Open and close library during specified hours and secure library equipment, such as computers and audio-visual equipment.
- Locate library materials for patrons, including books, periodicals, tape cassettes, Braille volumes, and pictures.
- Enter and update patrons' records on computers.
- Answer routine inquiries and refer patrons in need of professional assistance to librarians.
- Manage reserve materials by placing items on reserve for library patrons, checking items in and out of library, and removing out-of-date items.
Skills
- Service Orientation
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
Who this career fits
May suit you if
- You like clear rules and getting the details right.
- You get energy from helping other people move forward.
- You want to start work after a short stretch of training.
- You are comfortable relying on service orientation and reading comprehension.
May not suit you if
- You get restless with routine, records and exact procedures.
- You need creative expression to be a big part of your day. Artistic rates 1.3 out of 7 here.
- You want a career built on years of advanced study.
Interest profile
O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code CSR takes the three highest, and Conventional comes first here.
Preparation
Some preparation. Most people start with a high school diploma, then learn from experienced coworkers over a few months to a year.
Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED). This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.
Also called
- Acquisitions Assistant
- Cataloging Assistant
- Library Aide
- Library Assistant
- Library Associate
Related careers
Is this your direction?
See how your interests line up with CSR and 906 other careers.
This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.