What does a library technician do?

Library technicians are responsible for creating an educative and enjoyable visitor experience in a library. They prepare displays of objects and information for special exhibits, assist in catalogue management, perform library tours and facilitate library loans. They are also responsible for managing IT and AV equipment, updating computerised databases and arranging inter-library loans.

Tasks:

  • Maintaining audiovisual equipment
  • Data entry and maintaining computerised databases
  • Printing and ordering new materials
  • Assisting with loans and queries

What skills do I need to be a library technician?

A library technician is a multifaceted job. There is a strong customer service element in this position that requires you to be able to navigate library databases and records in order to assist with queries and references. You’ll need to be tech-savvy, comfortable working with computerised databases, records management and IT systems.

Skills/attributes
  • Good communication skills
  • Methodical and organised
  • Sociable and friendly
  • Skilled with computer systems
  • Detail-oriented
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Specialisations

Library technicians perform specialised work within libraries and other cultural institutions. Using these skills, you can branch out and pursue a variety of career options within the information services sector and other related fields of employment.

Curator

Galleries and exhibition spaces demand a high level of coordination and executive decision-making to get exhibitions mounted and ready for opening. Curators are responsible for deciding the layout, installation and, in some cases, publicity materials for the exhibitions taking place in their gallery.

Information Specialist

Information specialists are library technicians that work to maintain a library’s materials and resources. They ensure that visitors have access to information through a structured system and can educate and assist visitors with general enquiries or direct them to further information.

Curriculum Leader

This position demands a high level of input into the content of our schools’ curricula. This involves working with schoolteachers and principals to increase literacy and thinking skills with the ever-changing content of the curriculum. You should ensure students are engaged in the learning process and that the skills children are learning are relevant and topical.

Study pathways for library technicians

Tertiary courses are available for those wanting to work as library technicians as well as those wanting to progress and specialise in their chosen area within library and information services. 

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Getting Started

Learn how information services works and gain insight into your future career path

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Skill Building

Gain essential skills for working as a library services technician

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Professional Development

Become a confident leader in your field with industry recognised qualifications

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Industry Recognition

It is essential to complete an Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) recognised qualification in library services in order to work in the field.

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Getting a job after graduation

Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your library and information services career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.

Job Prospects and Salaries

There has recently been strong growth in the library services sector over the last five years, with slight growth projected over the next five.

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