Library Technicians
Description OES Code: 31505
Assist librarians by furnishing information on library sciences, facilities, and rules; by assisting readers in the use of card catalogs and indexes to locate books and other materials; and by answering questions that require only brief consultation of standard reference. May catalog books or train and supervise clerical staff.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $10.80
25th Percentile $11.90
50th Percentile $14.97
75th Percentile $17.05

Wages, San Joaquin
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $11.21
25th Percentile $12.04
50th Percentile $13.53
75th Percentile $15.93

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Library technicians in school libraries work regular school hours. Those in public libraries and college and university (academic) libraries also work weekends, evenings and some holidays. Library technicians in special libraries usually work normal business hours, although they often work overtime as well.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 7000
Projected Employment 2008 9,100
Percent Change 1998-2008 30%
Separations 1998-2008 2,200

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Those who prepare library materials sit at desks or computer terminals for long periods and can develop headaches or eyestrain from working with video display terminals. Library technicians may lift and carry books, and climb ladders to reach high stacks.

Advancement
Library technicians usually advance by assuming added responsibilities. For example, technicians often start at the circulation desk, checking books in and out. After gaining experience, they may become responsible for storing and verifying information. As they advance, they may become involved in budget and personnel matters in their department. Some library technicians advance to supervisory positions and are in charge of the day-to-day operation of their department.

Getting the Job & Other Information
For information on training programs for library/media technical assistants, write to:
* American Library Association, Office for Human Resource Development and Recruitment, 50 East Huron St., Chicago, IL 60611. Internet: http://www.ala.org

Information on acquiring a job as a library technician with the Federal Government may be obtained from the Office of Personnel Management through a telephone-based system. Consult your telephone directory under U.S. Government for a local number, or call (912) 757-3000; Federal Relay Service (800) 877-8339. The first number is not tollfree and charges may result. Information also is available on the Internet: http://www.usajobs.opm.gov.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Training requirements for library technicians vary widely, ranging from a high school diploma to specialized postsecondary training. Some employers hire individuals with work experience or other training; others train inexperienced workers on the job. Other employers require that technicians have an associate or bachelor’s degree.

Some 2-year colleges offer an associate of arts degree in library technology. Programs include both liberal arts and library-related study. Students learn about library and media organization and operation, and how to order, process, catalogue, locate, and circulate library materials and work with library automation. Libraries and associations offer continuing education courses to keep technicians abreast of new developments in the field.
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Skills & Other Requirements
Given the rapid spread of automation in libraries, computer skills are needed for many jobs. Knowledge of databases, library automation systems, online library systems, online public access systems, and circulation systems is valuable.

References
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occuaptional Outlook Handbook Library Technicians

Related Occupations: Clerical Library Assistants, Information and Record Clerks

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)