Most libraries are pleasant and comfortable places in which to assist those doing research, studying, or reading for pleasure. Library assistants must do a considerable amount of reading to keep informed in order to serve library patrons. They must also strive to stay abreast of constantly changing technology, which may seem overwhelming at times.
Much of the job is considered "desk job" work. Assistants in reference or circulation may suffer eyestrain and headaches from working long hours in front of a computer screen.
Full-time assistants work between 35 and 40 hours per week, but part-time workers log only about 20 hours or less a week. Since most libraries are open evenings and weekends, staff must be available to work a nontraditional schedule, taking, for instance, an 11:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. shift or taking Monday and Tuesday as a weekend in lieu of Saturday and Sunday.
The nature of the work can be routine and therefore tedious. It can also be solitary and quiet if the assistant is working in the stacks. For the most part, however, these workers enjoy the environment and find the work intellectually stimulating, challenging, and dynamic. The ability to store, track, and share information with the public can be very rewarding.
- Acquisitions Librarians
- Archivists
- Book Conservators
- Children's Librarians
- Corporate Librarians
- Database Specialists
- Exhibit Designers
- Film and Video Librarians
- Information Brokers
- Law Librarians
- Librarians
- Library and Information Science Instructors
- Library Directors
- Library Media Specialists
- Library Technicians
- Medical Librarians
- Music Librarians