The word librarian only comes to people’s mind when they think of a library, however, there are many other types of library jobs. Are you a lover of books and prefer working in a quiet environment? If so, then you should consider a library job. This career path is ideal for book enthusiasts and people who love their work environment being quiet.

In this article, we will take you through 8 of the most popular types of library jobs, their responsibilities, and the average salary of each role. As well as the skills you will need to develop for these jobs. So, let’s get started!

The Most Popular Types Of Library Jobs 

Below are some job roles you can apply for, if you are considering working in a library. Let’s dive in to learn more!

1. Librarian

National average salary: $34.70 per hour. Librarians are in charge of assisting people to access information and research services. As a librarian, you’ll often work in public libraries where you will assist your community or in an educational setting to help students. However, the role of a librarian is not limited to a library, they can also work in law offices, courthouses, museums, and medical facilities.

Every industry needs a librarian so they can have specialized knowledge. Let’s check out this example! A medical librarian must have a broad understanding of medical terminology to properly assist physicians. Librarians also oversee the library’s organization and ensure books and media are easily accessed by patrons.

Furthermore, they take inventory and make requests for new materials to keep the library updated and running smoothly. As well as assisting patrons to locate various books or media and supervise their use of the library’s equipment and facilities.

2. Assistant Librarian

National average salary: $21.70 per hour. Assistant librarians work closely with the head librarians as a subordinate. Meanwhile, the number of assistant librarians required will depend on the size of the library. Their job roles are similar to their direct supervisors (librarian), but they take on more administrative duties and focus on customer support.

Assistant librarians attend to patrons by helping them check materials in and out, answer questions, and collect fees for lost or overdue books. In addition, they also register new patrons and update files for existing visitors.

3. Library Manager 

National average salary: $33.00 per hour. The library manager is responsible for the smooth running of the entire library. They usually work in a separate office so they don’t get distracted by patrons. As such, they are focused on managing the library’s budget, creating staff schedules, and upholding the library.

Additionally, library managers also organize public relations and community events to draw in more patrons or give back to the community.

4. Archivist

National average salary: $23.55 per hour. Archivists are in charge of cataloging, preserving, and managing collections of historical information. However, not all libraries have an archivist, only the ones with older collections of books to protect. As an archivist, you may work at educational establishments to help answer questions and enlighten students in particular areas of study.

5. Library Assistant 

National average salary: $23.00 per hour. A library assistant must not be confused with an assistant librarian, a library assistant’s job role is majorly on customer service. They assist new visitors to find their required materials and also recommend books or media that may be of interest to the visitor. Furthermore, they take incoming calls, answer questions, shelf books, and materials, and ensure the library is well-organized.

6. Library Clerk 

National average salary: $17.80 per hour. The job role of a library clerk is similar to that of a library assistant. However, their focus is mainly on the library’s facility and equipment. As a library clerk, you will maintain audio-visual equipment and also repair damaged books.

However, if the material or equipment is beyond repair, you must report it to your supervisor to order a replacement. Additionally, they also monitor and maintain patron’s records to check for any outstanding loans and send out overdue notices.

7. Computer Technician 

National average salary: $25.60 per hour. If there are computers in the library for patrons to use, then there will be a computer technician on the team. Meanwhile, smaller libraries may not be able to afford a stand-by computer technician but can call one who works in the community when needed.

As a computer technician, you’ll set up the computers, install software/hardware updates, maintain the physical equipment, and resolve any computer problems in the library. Therefore, when a computer breaks down, the computer technician is in charge of fixing it.

8. Page

National average salary: $16.15 per hour. Pages are in charge of shelving returned books and other items. They also ensure the stocked shelves are in order. They may also retrieve material from restricted areas for patrons.

The Required Skills To Work In A Library

The type of skills you will need to work in a library may vary slightly depending on the job role. However, we have compiled some skills every library professional can benefit from. Scroll down!

1. Strong organizational skills.
2. Great passion for learning and reading.
3. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
4. The ability to go above and beyond for patrons.
5. Great computer and internet literacy.
6. Good research skills.
7. Attention to detail.
8. Dedication towards your job role.

Educational Requirements Needed For The Above Types Of Library Jobs 

Most of the jobs in a library are entry-level, such as janitor, page, library clerk, and library assistant. For these job roles, employers often seek candidates with a high school diploma or GED and relevant work or volunteer experience. However, the more technical job roles such as librarians, library managers, and archivists have higher education requirements.

They must acquire a master’s degree in a related field like library science, archival studies, or library and information studies. As for computer technicians, they must complete a computer technician program and obtain a degree or diploma. The exact academic requirements will vary depending on the specific role, location, and employer. Therefore, we recommend that you check specific job postings thoroughly.