Library Technician

Your Fit

Income

$40K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

-6.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Library Technician?

A Library Technician assists librarians in the management and operation of a library. They play a key role in organizing materials, helping patrons, and performing clerical duties to keep the library running efficiently.

Sample job titles:

Library Assistant, Library Associate, Library Technical Assistant (LTA), Library Technician

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Library Technician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Library Technician earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$28K per year	$34K per year	$40K per year	$50K per year	$61K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $9.53K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Library Technician do?

Work environment

Library Technicians typically work in public, school, academic, or special libraries. Their work environment is indoors, involving interactions with patrons and time spent at computer workstations, as well as handling books and other library materials.

Quick task list

Assists patrons with finding and using library resources.
Catalogs and organizes library materials.
Manages check-in and check-out of library materials.
Assists with library programs and events.
Maintains and updates library databases.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Cataloging and Metadata: Focusing on organizing and classifying library materials.
Circulation Services: Managing the lending of library materials to patrons.
Children's Services: Specializing in children's resources and programming.
Digital Resources: Managing and assisting with electronic resources and technology.
Reference Assistance: Providing research and information assistance to patrons.

Description

Library Technicians are vital to the smooth operation of libraries. They work behind the scenes to organize materials, making it easier for patrons to find what they need. Their role often includes cataloging new materials, managing circulation, and maintaining library databases. In addition to these tasks, they might also assist with library programming, such as setting up for events or conducting children's storytime.

The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a service-oriented attitude. Library Technicians must be comfortable with library databases and cataloging systems, and increasingly, with digital resources and technologies. They interact with a diverse range of patrons, so excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial.

While the work can be routine, it also offers variety and the opportunity to work in a quiet, organized environment. For those who love books, information, and serving the community, being a Library Technician can be a fulfilling career.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the educational and informational needs of the community.
Working in a quiet and organized environment surrounded by books and resources.
The variety in daily tasks, from technical work to interacting with patrons.

You might make a good Library Technician if you are...

Organized and detail-oriented, with a knack for categorizing and managing information.
Passionate about books, reading, and lifelong learning.
Comfortable with computers, digital resources, and library databases.
Skilled in customer service and enjoy helping others.
Interested in a quiet, steady work environment.

Pros:

Working in a calm and organized setting.
Opportunities for interaction with a variety of people.
Stable hours and a quiet work environment.

Cons:

Potentially limited career advancement opportunities.
The work can be somewhat repetitive and routine.
Increasing digitalization may change traditional roles and responsibilities.

How to become a Library Technician

Typical education

The educational requirement for a Library Technician usually includes an associate degree or a postsecondary certificate in library technology, which takes about 2 years to complete. Some positions might require or prefer a bachelor's degree.

High school preparation

Courses:

Information Technology for skills in managing digital resources.
English and Literature to develop a love for reading and books.
Communication Studies to enhance interpersonal skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Volunteering at a local library or school media center.
Participating in reading or book clubs.
Involvement in community service organizations.

Preparation after high school

Pursue an associate degree or certificate in library technology or a related field.
Gain experience through internships or part-time jobs in libraries to understand the day-to-day operations.
Attend workshops or seminars related to library science and technology.

More resources

American Library Association (ALA) - Offers resources and information on careers in libraries, including certification and education.
Library Support Staff Certification (LSSC) - Provides certification and career development information for library support staff.
Public Library Association (PLA) - A division of the ALA focusing on public library professionals and support staff.
School Library Journal - A publication with resources and news relevant to school libraries and media centers.
Library Journal - Provides industry insights, job listings, and professional development resources for library staff.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.