Library Technicians may go by an assortment of different titles, depending on the library in which they work. Terms such as Library Technical Assistant or Media Aide can be used to describe this occupation. The basic function of a Library Technician is to assist the Librarian. This may mean helping to prepare and organize materials or assisting in the technological advances in the library (CD-ROM, the Internet, virtual libraries and automated databases).
The Library Technician works under the supervision of the Librarian, but, as the duties of the Library Technician become more evolved, many technicians are working independently and assuming more duties - duties that at one time were the sole responsibility of the Librarian. The size of the library also has a great deal to do with the specific role of each technician. Technicians in smaller libraries, for example, generally handle a wide variety of jobs while Technicians in larger libraries usually specialize in certain areas.
In addition to assisting the Librarian, Library Technicians are also the link between library users and the resources they require. It is not uncommon for a Library Technician to direct users of the library to standard references while providing information to make it easier for people to use the library. Other duties may include, but are not limited to,: organizing and maintaining periodicals, preparing volumes for binding, cataloguing and coding of library materials and retrieval of information stored in computer databases. Once Technicians have gained the appropriate experience, and depending on the needs of an individual library, it is possible for a technician to take on the responsibility of handling interlibrary loan requests, preparing invoices and becoming a supervisor to a support staff.
Many libraries offer bookmobiles, which are simply libraries on wheels. It is typically the responsibility of a Library Technician to managing these outings. Bookmobiles, which are essentially trucks or vans stocked with books, have designated areas of distribution. They are commonly sent out to shopping centers, apartment complexes, and nursing homes in the effort to make libraries more accessible to everyone. Library Technicians on the bookmobile are responsible for answering questions, checking books out, maintaining book collection, inventory, and collecting fines. They may also occasionally operate audiovisual equipment.
The need for Library Technicians in schools is essential. Their primary job in schools is to educate students on the library system while encouraging them to understand the importance of books and reading. They may assist students with special assignments and are available to answer questions. Library Technicians are also important to the success of teachers. It is common for a Library Technician to assist teachers in gathering instructional materials and information for special projects.
Besides working in a traditional local library, Library Technicians are also needed to work in specialized libraries that are maintained by government agencies, corporations, law firms, advertising agencies, museums, professional societies, medical centers, and research labs. This means that Technicians who are interested in specific areas can specialize in assisting with different organizations.
