Library Assistant

Your Fit

Income

$34K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-5.8%

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

What is a Library Assistant?

A Library Assistant supports the daily operations of a library, assisting librarians in managing resources, servicing patrons, and maintaining a conducive environment for reading and research. This role is integral in facilitating access to information and promoting literacy and education.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

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

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 Assistant earn

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

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$24K per year	$29K per year	$34K per year	$41K per year	$50K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $14K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Library Assistant do?

Work environment

Library Assistants typically work in public, academic, or specialized libraries. The environment is generally quiet and organized, focusing on providing a supportive space for learning and research. They may work part-time or full-time, with some positions requiring evening or weekend hours to meet the library's operating schedule.

Quick task list

Assists patrons in locating books and resources.
Checks books in and out at the circulation desk.
Shelves and organizes library materials.
Assists with library programs and events.
Manages library databases and catalogs new materials.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Children's Services: Specializing in children's literature and programming.
Technical Services: Focusing on cataloging, archiving, and database management.
Reference Services: Providing research assistance and managing reference materials.
Academic Library Services: Specializing in supporting faculty and students in academic institutions.
Digital Resources Management: Overseeing digital collections and electronic resources.

Description

Library Assistants play a crucial role in the functioning of libraries. They are often the first point of contact for patrons, providing assistance in navigating the library's resources. This role requires excellent organizational skills to manage the vast array of materials and ensure they are easily accessible. Library Assistants must be knowledgeable about the library's cataloging system and adept at using digital databases and library software.

Interpersonal skills are key, as Library Assistants interact regularly with the public, answering questions and facilitating library events and programs. They need to be patient and helpful, with an ability to work with diverse groups of people, including students, researchers, and casual readers.

This career offers a fulfilling opportunity for those who love books, value education, and enjoy helping others. It provides a stable work environment and the chance to be surrounded by a wealth of knowledge and culture. There are opportunities for advancement, especially for those who pursue further education in library science.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Facilitating access to information and promoting literacy.
Working in a quiet, organized, and intellectually stimulating environment.
Interacting with and helping a diverse range of library patrons.

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

Passionate about books, reading, and education.
Organized and detail-oriented, capable of managing and categorizing information.
Good at interacting with people and providing customer service.
Comfortable with using computers and library databases.
Interested in a stable and culturally enriching work environment.

Pros:

Working in a quiet, educational environment.
Opportunities to engage with a variety of literature and media.
Satisfaction from helping patrons and contributing to educational initiatives.

Cons:

The job can be somewhat repetitive and routine.
Limited opportunities for high-income growth.
May require working evenings or weekends depending on the library's schedule.

How to become a Library Assistant

Typical education

A high school diploma is often sufficient for entry-level positions, although some libraries prefer or require some post-secondary education, especially for specialized libraries. On-the-job training is commonly provided.

High school preparation

Courses:

English and Literature to develop a love for reading and books.
Computer Science to become proficient with digital databases and cataloging systems.
Art or Media Studies for those interested in creative and cultural aspects of library work.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Volunteering at a local library or community center.
Joining or starting a book club or reading group.
Participating in community service projects focused on literacy and education.

Preparation after high school

An associate's degree in library science or a related field for more specialized roles.
Certification programs in library technology or assistance.
Internships or work-study programs in libraries to gain practical experience.

More resources

American Library Association (ALA) - Provides resources and educational programs for library professionals.
Library Support Staff Certification (LSSC) - Offers certification for library support staff.
O*NET Online - Comprehensive resource for detailed information on various occupations, including Library Assistants.

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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.