All careers

Library Assistants, Clerical

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.

What you’d do

  • 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reserve materials by placing items on reserve for library patrons, checking items in and out of library, and removing out-of-date items.
  • Lend, reserve, and collect books, periodicals, videotapes, and other materials at circulation desks and process materials for inter-library loans.
  • Instruct patrons on how to use reference sources, card catalogs, and automated information systems.

Skills that matter

  • Service Orientation
  • Active Listening
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Coordination
  • Critical Thinking
  • Speaking

How to get there

Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one

Also called

  • Library Aide
  • Library Assistant
  • Library Circulation Assistant
  • Library Clerk
  • Acquisitions Assistant
  • Cataloging Assistant

Related careers

See all careers

  • Library Technicians

    Assist librarians by helping readers in the use of library catalogs, databases, and indexes to locate books and other materials; and by…

    Medium preparation: usually vocational school, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree

  • File Clerks

    File correspondence, cards, invoices, receipts, and other records in alphabetical or numerical order or according to the filing system used.

    Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one

  • Office Clerks, General

    • Bright Outlook
    • Numerous Job Openings

    Perform duties too varied and diverse to be classified in any specific office clerical occupation, requiring knowledge of office systems…

    Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one

  • Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive

    • Bright Outlook
    • Numerous Job Openings

    Perform routine administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and…

    Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one

  • Document Management Specialists

    • Bright Outlook
    • Rapid Growth

    Implement and administer enterprise-wide document management systems and related procedures that allow organizations to capture, store…

    Considerable preparation: most need a four-year bachelor's degree

  • Stockers and Order Fillers

    • Bright Outlook
    • Rapid Growth
    • Numerous Job Openings

    Receive, store, and issue merchandise, materials, equipment, and other items from stockroom, warehouse, or storage yard to fill shelves…

    Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one