Library Assistant
Library assistants work as part of a team under the supervision of librarians or library technicians. Assistants maintain, sort, issue and receive library items such as books, magazines, CDs, films and associated records.
What you would do :
- sort material according to classification or catalogue numbers and return to shelves or other storage areas
- issue items from library collections to borrowers and record identification data and due dates
- check records to compile lists of overdue items
- issue overdue notices to borrowers
- inspect returned items for damage and make minor repairs where required
- issue identification cards to borrowers
- answer telephone enquiries
- assist librarians and library technicians with information enquiries
- assist with outreach services such as a 'home library' service for people who are not able to visit the library due to illness or disability
- operate photocopying machines to duplicate material
- maintain the operations of photocopying machines by clearing simple blockages and replenishing paper supply
- assist in the production of publicity displays and multimedia kits
- unpack new materials and sort mail
- assist in accessing print and non-print materials
- type catalogue cards and labels and file appropriately
- perform inter-library loan functions
- input data to local databases
You need to be:
- interested in computers
- practical and logical
- a good organiser
- able to work under pressure
- good with customers
- a good communicator
You will require:
Improve your chances by:
- Taking arts subjects such as English, History or Geography to increase your general knowledge
- Volunteering to work in a library in your vacation
What you will earn:
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Salaries range widely, depending on the level of qualifications and the industry within which the library is located. The starting salary for a library assistant is about $21,000, and may go as high as $28,000 per annum.
Long Term Possibilities:
- Librarian
- Library technician
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