Library Assistant / Page

Compile records, and sort, shelve, issue, and receive library materials such as books, electronic media, pictures, cards, slides and microfilm. Locate library materials for loan and replace material in shelving area, stacks, or files according to identification number and title. Register patrons to permit them to borrow books, periodicals, and other library materials.

O*NET definition of Library Assistants, Clerical (SOC 43-4121) · Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed.

Assist librarians by helping readers in the use of library catalogs, databases, and indexes to locate books and other materials; and by answering questions that require only brief consultation of standard reference. Compile records; sort and shelve books or other media; remove or repair damaged books or other media; register patrons; and check materials in and out of the circulation process. Replace materials in shelving area (stacks) or files. Includes bookmobile drivers who assist with providing services in mobile libraries.

O*NET definition of Library Technicians (SOC 25-4031) · Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed.

Education workers say the job requires

Share of surveyed workers in Library Assistants, Clerical (SOC 43-4121) naming each level as required to be hired, 31 respondents, O*NET survey August 2018. Each employer sets its own minimum.

Education workers say the job requires

Share of surveyed workers in Library Technicians (SOC 25-4031) naming each level as required to be hired, 28 respondents, O*NET survey July 2017. Each employer sets its own minimum.

Library technicians typically need a postsecondary certificate. Library assistants typically need a high school diploma or its equivalent, combined with short-term on-the-job training.

From the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook profile “Library Technicians and Assistants”, published August 27, 2026 · Read the full profile. National guidance; each employer runs its own hiring process.

Library Assistants, Clerical (SOC 43-4121)

Median annual wage by employer type, national, May 2025. Federal includes the U.S. Postal Service; state and local include public schools and hospitals.

Library Technicians (SOC 25-4031)

Median annual wage by employer type, national, May 2025. Federal includes the U.S. Postal Service; state and local include public schools and hospitals.

1. Sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.4.3
2. Open and close library during specified hours and secure library equipment, such as computers and audio-visual equipment.4.3
3. Locate library materials for patrons, including books, periodicals, tape cassettes, Braille volumes, and pictures.4.3
4. Enter and update patrons' records on computers.4.3
5. Answer routine inquiries and refer patrons in need of professional assistance to librarians.4.3
6. Manage reserve materials by placing items on reserve for library patrons, checking items in and out of library, and removing out-of-date items.4.2
7. Lend, reserve, and collect books, periodicals, videotapes, and other materials at circulation desks and process materials for inter-library loans.4.1
8. Instruct patrons on how to use reference sources, card catalogs, and automated information systems.4.1
9. Inspect returned books for condition and due-date status and compute any applicable fines.4.1
10. Maintain records of items received, stored, issued, and returned and file catalog cards according to system used.4.0

The 10 most important of 25 core tasks for Library Assistants, Clerical, ranked by importance (1–5) in the O*NET survey of August 2018.

1. Reserve, circulate, renew, and discharge books and other materials.4.3
2. Answer routine telephone or in-person reference inquiries, referring patrons to librarians for further assistance, when necessary.4.3
3. Help patrons find and use library resources, such as reference materials, audio-visual equipment, computers, and other electronic resources and provide technical assistance when needed.4.2
4. Deliver and retrieve items throughout the library by hand or using pushcart.4.2
5. Process print and non-print library materials to prepare them for inclusion in library collections.4.1
6. Catalogue and sort books and other print and non-print materials according to procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.4.0
7. Enter and update patrons' records on computers.4.0
8. Provide assistance to teachers and students by locating materials and helping to complete special projects.3.9
9. Compile and maintain records relating to circulation, materials, and equipment.3.8
10. Take actions to halt disruption of library activities by problem patrons.3.8

The 10 most important of 17 core tasks for Library Technicians, ranked by importance (1–5) in the O*NET survey of July 2017.