What Is a Library Technical Assistant and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

Library technical assistants handle items being checked in or out by patrons, shelve books and materials, and update the library database or catalog with new shipments of materials. As a library technical assistant, you may also help patrons find resources in the library, collect overdue fines, and assist with library events. You typically work under the supervision of a librarian.

To become a library technical assistant, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, though some employers prefer candidates with an associate degree. Previous experience is not required, but volunteering at your local library provides you with hands-on experience in many of the tasks performed by library technical assistants. Become proficient with basic computer software. Customer service skills and excellent written and verbal skills are also important for this position.

The differences between a library technical assistant and a librarian involve the level of required education and job responsibilities. Library technical assistants do not need formal training; their duties include support tasks, such as shelving books and assisting patrons, that can be learned on the job. Librarians typically have a master’s degree in library science and are responsible for creating a budget for the library, developing community programs, and selecting materials for the library.