Nature of the Work
Library assistants, clerical—sometimes referred to as
library media assistants, library aides, or
circulation assistants—help librarians and library technicians organize library resources and make them available to users. (
Librarians and
library technicians are discussed elsewhere in the
Handbook.)
At the circulation desk, library assistants lend and collect books, periodicals, videotapes, and other materials. When an item is borrowed, assistants scan it and the patron's library card to record the transaction in the library database; they then stamp the due date on the item or print a receipt with the due date. When an item is returned, assistants inspect it for damage and scan it to record its return. Electronic circulation systems automatically generate notices reminding patrons that their materials are overdue, but library assistants may review the record for accuracy before sending out the notice. Library assistants also register new patrons and issue them library cards. They answer patrons' questions or refer them to a librarian.
Throughout the library, assistants sort returned books, periodicals, and other items and put them on their designated shelves, in the appropriate files, or in storage areas. Before reshelving returned materials, they look for any damage and try to make repairs. For example, they may use tape or paste to repair torn pages or book covers and use other specialized processes to repair more valuable materials.
Assistants also locate materials being lent to a patron or another library. Because nearly all library catalogs are computerized, library assistants must be familiar with computers. They sometimes help patrons with computer searches.
Some library assistants specialize in helping patrons who have vision problems. Sometimes referred to as
braille-and-talking-books clerks, these assistants review the borrower's list of desired reading materials, and locate those materials or close substitutes from the library collection of large-type or braille volumes and books on tape. Then, they give or mail the materials to the borrower.
Work environment. Library assistants who prepare library materials may sit at desks or computer terminals for long periods and can develop headaches or eyestrain. Some duties can be repetitive and boring, such as shelving new or returned materials. Others can be rewarding, such as assisting patrons who are performing computer searches with the use of local and regional library networks. Library assistants may lift and carry books, climb ladders to reach high stacks, and bend low to shelve books on bottom shelves.
Library assistants in school libraries work regular school hours. Those in public libraries and college and university libraries also work weekends, evenings, and some holidays. About 60 percent of library assistants work part time, making the job appealing to retirees, students, and others interested in flexible schedules.
