Library technician

A library technician is trained to perform the day-to-day functions of a library and assists librarians in the acquisition, preparation and organization of information. They also assist library patrons in finding information. The widespread use of computerized information storage and retrieval systems has resulted in library technicians handling technical services (such as cataloguing) that were once performed exclusively by librarians. Because libraries are increasingly using new technologies (such as automated databases, CD-ROM, the Internet and virtual libraries), the role of the library technician is expanding and evolving accordingly.

Library technicians differ from librarians in terms of education and main duties. Library technicians typically require a college library technician diploma, whereas librarians require a master's degree in library science from an accredited university program. Library technicians are typically graduates of a library technician diploma program from a community college, four-year college, or institute. They could have on-the-job training and/or a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor's degree. Duties can vary with the type and size of the library but can include: cataloguing and classifying of materials, data input to assist in acquiring print and nonprint materials, and circulation procedures. In a larger library, they may be responsible for clerical staff in a certain section or department. In smaller libraries, where the foundations of organization and operation are already established, they may serve as the manager.

Using the latest information technologies, their goal is to bring together people, information and materials and meet the challenges of a constantly changing information environment. Library technicians work in environments as diverse as business corporations, professional firms, financial institutions, cultural organizations, public libraries and schools.