Library Technicians: What They Are and How to Become One
Library technicians play a crucial role in the smooth functioning of libraries. They are responsible for a range of duties and services that help librarians in managing the resources, maintaining a welcoming environment, and assisting the patrons. In this article, we will explore what library technicians do, some examples of their job, the education and training required to become one, and how to get into the field.
What is a Library Technician?
A library technician is a paraprofessional who performs a variety of tasks that support the functions of a library. They work in various settings such as public, academic, corporate, or specialized libraries. Library technicians are responsible for tasks such as shelving, cataloging, circulation, organizing and managing resources, assisting the patrons, and providing technical and administrative support.
Examples of Library Technician Jobs
The job of a library technician can vary depending on the type of library they work in. Here are some examples:
– Public Library Technician: They assist patrons with finding materials, managing circulation, shelving, organizing the collection, and providing basic reference services.
– Academic Library Technician: They assist librarians in cataloging, maintaining course reserves, supervising student workers, providing technical support, and managing periodicals and other resources.
– Specialized Library Technician: They work in legal libraries, medical libraries, government libraries, or other specialized libraries and assist with collection management, cataloging, research, and reference services.
Education and Training Required
Library technicians usually require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent qualification. However, many employers prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in library science, education, or a related field. Additionally, some library technician programs offer courses that cover topics such as cataloging, classification, reference services, database management, and library ethics.
How to Progress in the Field
A library technician can progress in their career by acquiring additional skills, knowledge, and experience. They can pursue further education, certifications, or training that can help them specialize in a specific area or qualify for higher positions. For example, they can become a certified library technician by completing a certification program by the American Library Association.
How to Get into the Field
If you are interested in becoming a library technician, here are some steps you can take:
– Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
– Consider pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in library science, education, or related field.
– Gain experience by volunteering at a library or working as a student assistant.
– Apply for openings in entry-level library technician roles.
– Consider obtaining certification or further education to advance your career.
Conclusion
Library technicians play an essential role in helping libraries run efficiently and providing quality services to patrons. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a library technician, you can start by obtaining education and experience that can help you qualify for the job. With the right skills, knowledge, and professionalism, you can progress in the field and make a valuable contribution to the library community.
Library Technicians: Job Level and Salary Data
Library technicians are responsible for helping librarians with various tasks related to library management, such as cataloging materials, assisting patrons with locating resources, and maintaining library equipment. The job level and salary structure for library technicians vary based on factors such as experience, union affiliation, and geographic location.
Salary Data
The following table shows the US national average salary data for library technicians:
| Job Level | Salary (Union) | Salary (Non-Union) |
|---|---|---|
| Level 05 | $53,456.00 | $38,355.20 |
| Level 06 | – | $36,795.20 |
| Level 07 | $50,648.00 | – |
| Not able to be leveled | – | $39,520.00 |
| Entry | – | $37,003.20 |
| Experienced | – | $51,251.20 |
| Full-time (All levels) | $43,118.40 | $38,064.00 |
| Full-time (Level 05) | – | $40,851.20 |
| Full-time (Level 06) | – | $39,707.20 |
| Full-time (Level 07) | – | $48,963.20 |
| Full-time (Not able to be leveled) | – | $43,451.20 |
| Full-time (Entry) | – | $39,499.20 |
| Part-time (Level 06) | – | $33,508.80 |
| Part-time (Entry) | – | $32,073.60 |
| Time-based pay (All levels) | – | $40,497.60 |
As shown in the table, library technicians at all job levels typically earn between $35,339.20 and $52,249.60 per year. However, union-affiliated technicians generally earn higher wages compared to non-unionized technicians for some job levels, with an average difference of around $4,000-$5,000 annually.
Geographic Pay Differences
The average pay for library technicians varies significantly across different geographies. For example, in New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA, union-affiliated library technicians earn an average salary of $55,598.40 per year, while in Mississippi, non-unionized technicians earn an average of $25,147.20 per year.
The pay differences can be attributed to factors such as cost of living, local job market demand, and state wage laws.
Effects of Union on Job
The unionization of library technicians has a significant impact on their job security and wages. Union members have the right to collectively bargain for better pay, benefits, and working conditions. They also have access to union-sponsored training and networking opportunities, which can help advance their careers.
However, union affiliation also comes with certain responsibilities and obligations, such as paying union dues and participating in union activities. Furthermore, some libraries may not hire union-affiliated library technicians, which could limit job prospects for those who choose to join a union.
