Do you want to be a...

Library Assistant

Also known as Library Officer.

Library assistants maintain, sort, issue and receive library items such as books, magazines, tapes, films and associated records.

Library assistants work as part of a team under the supervision of librarians or library technicians.

They are often responsible for daily library operations.

TASKS

Library assistants may perform the following tasks:

sort material according to classification or catalogue numbers and return library materials 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
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
assist customers in finding physical and online materials
perform inter-library loan functions

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

aptitude for working with computers
able to cope with the physical demands of the job
good organisational skills
good communication skills
able to work under pressure
good customer service skills

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a library assistant without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in information and cultural services or library, information and cultural services. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become a library assistant through a traineeship in Information and Cultural Services or Library, Information and Cultural Services.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Library assistants may need a drivers licence.

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Library, Information and Cultural Services Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Library assistants are employed in public libraries, school libraries, special libraries and university libraries.

Many vacancies for library assistants require applicants to have library experience, so undertaking work experience or voluntary work in a library is recommended.

Much of the work for new library assistants is part time or casual, which typically progresses into permanent, full-time employment.