Professional librarians with multiple master's degrees oversee a specialized collection, as well as volunteer students shelving books.If you're an entry-level jobseeker, volunteering or applying for library assistant jobs at small libraries is your best option.Keep reading to find out more about these positions and how to increase your odds.
Step 1: Ask about volunteering at the library.
You can get more information from the staff member at the reference desk.There are often volunteer opportunities in public libraries.Your volunteer work could include helping patrons at the circulation desk or assisting the children's library.
Step 2: Become a library page.
Library pages are usually paid, but may be temporary or part time.The work is similar to what a volunteer would do.If you do not have a college degree, this may be your best bet at paid library employment.The reference desk should be able to tell you about this program as well.
Step 3: You can ask about other jobs at the library.
Not every library job role requires a library science degree.Most libraries have a janitor and security guards.
Step 4: You should look for opportunities at your college or university.
You can visit your school's library if you are a college or university student.Students may be hired as library assistants.These positions can be scheduled around the student's class schedule, but may or may not be connected to the financial aid package.
Step 5: There are job requirements for library assistant.
A library assistant position is an entry-level position that handles the day-to-day work in the library.There are different requirements between libraries.High school students may be trained in small libraries.You'll need a high-school diploma and sometimes a college degree in library science.The term "library technician" is used interchangeably by some libraries.At others, technicians have higher educational requirements.
Step 6: There is a bulletin board on the website.
Notices of special events and open positions can be found on the bulletin board in most libraries.You can apply for jobs you're qualified for if you check this occasionally.Job openings can be advertised on the library's website.The libraries are supervised by a board.Compared to most employers, this gives them less wiggle room for discretionary hiring.It's not likely that you'll be hired based on personal connections.
Step 7: You should visit the library before applying.
You should visit the library when you see a job opening that is right for you.The experience of visiting the library and the service you receive should be evaluated.Ask the staff questions.The program schedules, technology, and other library resources can be found here.These things give you a lot of material to talk about in your interview, both for showing that you've done your homework, and for offering suggestions of things you could contribute.You can come up with ideas to improve the library program.Start a seed library if a kids' gardening program is popular.If you're applying for a job in a library, make sure to gather as much information as you can about the library and its classification system.
Step 8: Send it in with your resume.
Many public library jobs in large cities have a computer that scans the resume rather than a human being.The resume needs to include certain key words from the job description in order to be considered for an interview.In your cover letter and during the interview, highlight the qualities that would make you a good librarian, as well as your interest in the library and the domains it covers.
Step 9: Local politics can be researched.
Before you interview at the library, you should know everything you can about politics.Has it had hours or services cut?Consider being an advocate or supporter of the library.Look into a group called the Friends of the library.
Step 10: There's a network.
If possible, get to know the board members who do the hiring.If the library invites you to meet the board after you apply, you should treat it as an extension of the interview.Be engaged and professional.
Step 11: There are jobs that need a college degree.
A bachelor's degree is required for some librarians in public libraries.Teens and children's librarians are often in these types of positions.
Step 12: There is a Master's in Library Science available.
A Master's in Library Science is required for almost all intermediate and advanced level library jobs.Professional librarians have more advanced duties such as updating the library's collections.
Step 13: Be special.
References, corporate librarians, cataloguer, library manager, collections manager and children's librarians are some of the roles that librarians fill.Take the time to research the roles that are interesting to you.There is a specialization in archives in many library science programs.Historic texts are preserved and given access to for research.
Step 14: There is a train going to an academic library.
An additional master's degree is also held by many academic librarians.This path can combine your interest in libraries with your passion for academic subjects such as art, law, music, business, or psychology.
Step 15: There is a special library.
Private, company libraries that hold collections centered on legal, business, medical, or government resources are called special libraries.A master's degree in library science is required for most positions in special libraries.A Librarian may need to have degrees or experience in the library's specific subject area.Law, business, science and government are examples of subjects.