Librarians

Librarians

Librarians’ job duties may change based on the type of library they work in, such as public, school and college libraries.

Librarians help people find information and conduct research for personal and professional use. Their job duties may change based on the type of library they work in, such as public, school, and medical libraries.

Duties

Librarians typically do the following:

·         Help library patrons conduct research and find the information they need

·         Teach classes about information resources and help users evaluate search results and reference materials

·         Organize library materials so they are easy to find, and maintain collections

·         Plan programs for different audiences, such as storytelling for young children

·         Develop and index databases of library materials

·         Research new books and materials by reading book reviews, publishers’ announcements, and catalogs

·         Choose new books, audio books, videos, and other materials for the library

·         Research and buy new computers and other equipment as needed for the library

·         Train and direct library technicians, assistants, other support staff, and volunteers

·         Prepare library budgets

In small libraries, librarians are often responsible for many or all aspects of library operations. They may manage a staff of library assistants and technicians.

In larger libraries, librarians usually focus on one aspect of library work, including user services, technical services, or administrative services.

The following are examples of types of librarians:

User services librarians:               User services librarians help patrons find the information they need. They listen to what patrons are looking for and help them conduct research using both electronic and print resources. These librarians also teach patrons how to use library resources to find information on their own. This may include familiarizing patrons with catalogs of print materials, helping them access and search digital libraries, or educating them on Internet search techniques. Some user services librarians work with a particular audience, such as children or young adults.

Technical services librarians obtain:       Technical services librarians obtain, prepare, and classify print and electronic library materials. They organize materials to make it easy for patrons to find information. These librarians are less likely to work directly with the public.

Administrative services librarians:          Administrative services librarians manage libraries. They hire and supervise staff, prepare budgets, and negotiate contracts for library materials and equipment. Some conduct public relations or fundraising for the library.

Librarians who work in different settings sometimes have different job duties.

Academic librarians:      Academic librarians assist students, faculty, and staff in colleges and universities. They help students research topics related to their coursework and teach students how to access information. They also assist faculty and staff in locating resources related to their research projects or studies. Some campuses have multiple libraries, and librarians may specialize in a particular subject.

Public librarians:              Public librarians work in their communities to serve all members of the public. They help patrons find books to read for pleasure; conduct research for schoolwork, business, or personal interest; and learn how to access the library’s resources. Many public librarians plan programs for users, such as story time for children, book clubs, or other educational activities.

School librarians:             School librarians, sometimes called school media specialists, work in elementary, middle, and high school libraries, and teach students how to use library resources. They also help teachers develop lesson plans and find materials for classroom instruction.

Special librarians:            Special librarians work in settings other than school or public libraries. They are sometimes called information professionals. Law firms, hospitals, businesses, museums, government agencies, and many other groups have their own libraries that use special librarians. The main purpose of these libraries and information centers is to serve the information needs of the organization that houses the library. Therefore, special librarians collect and organize materials focused on those subjects. The following are examples of special librarians:

·         Corporate librarians assist employees in private businesses in conducting research and finding information. They work for a wide range of businesses, including insurance companies, consulting firms, and publishers.

·         Government librarians provide research services and access to information for government staff and the public.

·         Law librarians help lawyers, law students, judges, and law clerks locate and organize legal resources. They often work in law firms and law school libraries.

·         Medical librarians, also called health science librarians, help health professionals, patients, and researchers find health and science information. They may provide information about new clinical trials and medical treatments and procedures, teach medical students how to locate medical information, or answer consumers’ health questions.

Work Environment

Librarians plan outreach programs targeted toward different groups, such as story time for children.

Industries that employed the most librarians include:

·         Elementary and secondary schools; state, local, and private

·         Local government,             

·         Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state, local, and private   

·         Information          

Some librarians have private offices, but those in smaller libraries usually share work space with others.

Work Schedules

Most librarians work full time, although opportunities exist for part-time work.

Public and academic librarians often work on weekends and evenings, and may work holidays. School librarians usually have the same work and vacation schedules as teachers. Librarians in special libraries, such as law or corporate libraries, typically work normal business hours, but may need to work longer hours to help meet deadlines.

How to Become a Librarian

Most librarians need a degree or a master’s degree in library science. Some positions have additional requirements, such as a teaching certificate or a degree in another field.

Education

Most employers require librarians to have a master’s degree in library science (MLS). Students need a bachelor’s degree to enter MLS programs, but any undergraduate major is accepted.

MLS programs usually take 1 to 2 years to complete. Coursework typically covers selecting library materials, organizing information, research methods and strategies, online reference systems, and Internet search methods. 

Some colleges and universities have other names for their library science programs, such as Master of Information Studies or Master of Library and Information Studies.

Librarians working in a special library, such as a law, medical, or corporate library, usually supplement a master’s degree in library science with knowledge of their specialized field. Some employers require special librarians to have a master’s degree, a professional degree, or a Ph.D. in that subject. For example, a law librarian may be required to have a law degree or a librarian in an academic library may need a Ph.D.

Important Qualities

Communication skills.   Librarians need to be able to explain ideas and information in ways that patrons and users understand.

Computer skills.               Librarians use computers to help patrons research topics. They also use computers to classify resources, create databases, and perform administrative duties.

Initiative.                            New information, technology, and resources constantly change the details of what librarians do. They must be able and willing to continually update their knowledge on these changes to be effective at their jobs in the varying circumstances.

Interpersonal skills.       Librarians must be able to work both as part of a team and with the public or with researchers.

Problem-solving skills.                 Librarians conduct and assist with research. This requires being able to identify a problem, figure out where to find information, and draw conclusions based on the information found.

Reading skills.                   Librarians must be excellent readers. Those working in special libraries are expected to continually read the latest literature in their field of specialization

Similar Occupations

Adult Literacy and High School Equivalency Diploma Teachers  Adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers instruct adults in basic skills, such as reading, writing, and speaking English. They also help students earn their high school diploma. 

Archivists, Curators, and Museum Workers        Archivists appraise, edit, and maintain permanent records and historically valuable documents. Curators oversee collections of artwork and historic items, and may conduct public service activities for an institution. Museum technicians and conservators prepare and restore objects and documents in museum collections and exhibits.      

Health Educators and Community Health Workers          Health educators teach people about behaviors that promote wellness. They develop and implement strategies to improve the health of individuals and communities. Community health workers collect data and discuss health concerns with members of specific populations or communities.

High School Teachers    High school teachers help prepare students for life after graduation. They teach academic lessons and various skills that students will need to attend college and to enter the job market.               

Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers  Kindergarten and elementary school teachers prepare younger students for future schooling by teaching them basic subjects such as math and reading.

Library Technicians and Assistants           Library technicians and assistants help librarians with all aspects of running a library. They assist patrons, organize library materials and information, and perform clerical and administrative tasks.     

Middle School Teachers               Middle school teachers educate students, typically in sixth through eighth grades. Middle school teachers help students build on the fundamentals they learned in elementary school and prepare them for the more difficult curriculum they will face in high school.        

Postsecondary Teachers               Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a wide variety of academic and vocational subjects beyond the high school level. They also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books.

What Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals Do About this section

What Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals

Principals serve as the public face of the school and meet with government officers such as legislators, and members of the community. Elementary, middle, and high school principals lead teachers and other members of school staff. They manage the day-to-day operations of elementary, middle, and high schools. They set goals and objectives and evaluate the school’s progress toward meeting them.

Duties

·         Elementary, middle, and high school principals typically do the following:

·         Supervise teachers and other school staff, such as counselors and librarians

·         Observe and monitor teachers to evaluate their effectiveness

·         Help teachers improve their teaching skills by arranging professional development programs and mentorships

·         Ensure that staff have the tools and resources they need to do their jobs effectively

·         Discipline students and help teachers manage students’ behavior

·         Meet with parents and teachers to discuss students’ progress and behavior

·         Review test scores and other data to assess the school’s progress

·         Manage the school’s budget and finances

·         Ensure school facilities are safe for students and staff

·         Advocate on behalf of the school to ensure it has the necessary financial support

Elementary, middle, and high school principals manage the overall operation of schools, including building maintenance and cafeteria services. In addition, they set and oversee academic standards and ensure that teachers have the tools and resources, such as training, necessary to meet these standards. Principals establish the school as a resource to students and their families.

Principals serve as the public face of their school. They meet with government officials such as legislators, and members of the community to ensure the school has the resources it needs to serve its students. They are also responsible for responding to the concerns of parents and members of the community.

The job duties of principals vary by the size of the school and the school location. In larger schools principals have more resources and staff to help them achieve goals and meet standards. For example, large school may have instructional coordinators who help with data analysis and with teachers' professional development. However, principals in large schools may have less flexibility and may need to follow rules and guidelines which have already been set. Those in small school districts need to do all of these duties themselves and may have more flexibility to try new ideas.

Many schools have assistant principals that help principals with school administration. Assistant principals often take the lead on student safety and discipline. They may interact with the students more than the principal does. In addition, assistant principals may administer student activities, help coordinate buses, and supervise building and grounds maintenance. Larger schools may have several assistant principals.

Work Environment About this section

Elementary, middle, and high school principals

Principals meet with parents and teachers to discuss students’ progress.

Principals work in public or private elementary, middle, and high schools. Some work in public magnet and charter schools. Others work in private religious and secular schools.

Elementary, middle, and high school principals hold leadership positions with significant responsibility. Working with students may be rewarding. However, coordinating and interacting with faculty, parents, students, community members, and state and local policymakers can be demanding. Principals’ work can sometimes be stressful because they are accountable for schools meeting state and federal standards for student performance and teacher qualification.

Work Schedules

Principals typically work full time. They may work in the evening to meet parents and other members of the community and to attend school functions, such as concerts and athletic events.

Many principals work year-round and do not have summers off, even if students are not in school. During the summer, principals prepare for the upcoming school year, schedule building maintenance, order school supplies, or hire teachers and staff.

How to Become an Elementary, Middle, or High School Principal

Master’s degree programs in education administration prepare students to lead teachers and other staff.

Most schools require elementary, middle, and high school principals to have a master’s degree in education administration or leadership. Most principals also have work experience as teachers.

Education

Principals typically need a master’s degree in education leadership or education administration. These master’s degree programs prepare future principals to manage teachers and staff, prepare and manage budgets, set goals, and work with parents and the community.

To enter these programs, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in education, school counseling, or a related field.

Work Experience in a Related Occupation

Candidates for the position of principal usually need work experience as a teacher. For more information on how to become a teacher, see the profiles on kindergarten and elementary school teachers, middle school teachers, and high school teachers.

Advancement

An assistant principal can advance to become a principal. Some principals advance to become superintendents, which may require completion of additional education. Others become instructional coordinators.

Important Qualities

Communication skills. Principals must communicate effectively with students, teachers, and parents. For example, when dealing with student disciplinary or academic issues, they consult with and listen to parents and teachers to understand the problem.

Critical-thinking skills. Principals analyze student test results and testing procedures to determine any improvements to help students achieve better results.

Decision-making skills. Because principals are responsible for students, staff members, and the overall operation of the school, they consider many factors when making decisions. For example, they consider the safety of students and staff when making a recommendation to close a school before a snowstorm.

Interpersonal skills. Because principals work with teachers, parents, and superintendents, they must be able to develop positive working relationships with them.

Leadership skills. Principals set educational goals and establish policies and procedures for the school. They need to be able to motivate teachers and other staff to achieve set goals.

Problem-solving skills. Teachers, students, and other staff members report problems to the principal. Principals need to be able to analyze problems, and develop and implement solutions.

Similar Occupation

Career and Technical Education Teachers:           Career and technical education teachers instruct students in various technical and vocational subjects, such as auto repair, healthcare, and culinary arts. They teach academic and technical content to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to enter an occupation.     Bachelor’s degree   

                       

High School Teachers:   High school teachers help prepare students for life after graduation. They teach academic lessons and various skills that students will need to attend college and to enter the job market.                Bachelor’s degree

                               

Instructional Coordinators:         Instructional coordinators oversee school curriculums and teaching standards. They develop instructional material, coordinate its implementation with teachers and principals, and assess its effectiveness. 

                   

Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers  Kindergarten and elementary school teachers prepare younger students for future schooling by teaching them basic subjects such as math and reading Bachelor’s degree

Librarians:           Librarians help people find information and conduct research for personal and professional use. Their job duties may change based on the type of library they work in, such as public, school, and medical libraries.  

                         

Middle School Teachers:              Middle school teachers educate students, typically in sixth through eighth grades.  Middle school teachers help students build on the fundamentals they learned in elementary school and prepare them for the more difficult curriculum they will face in high school. 

   

Post-secondary Education Administrators:            Post-secondary education administrators oversee student services, academics, and faculty research at colleges and universities. Their job duties vary depending on the area of the college they manage, such as admissions, student life, or the office of the registrar. 

                     

Post-secondary Teachers:             Post secondary teachers instruct students in a wide variety of academic and vocational subjects beyond the high school level. They also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books.   

                     

Preschool and Childcare Center Directors:           Preschool and childcare center directors direct and lead staffs, oversee daily activities, and prepare plans and budgets. They are responsible for all aspects of their center’s program.     

              

Preschool Teachers:       Preschool teachers educate and care for children, usually ages 3 to 5, who have not yet entered kindergarten. They teach reading, writing, science, and other subjects in a way that young children can understand.              

                       

School and Career Counselors:  School counselor’s help students develop social skills and succeed in school. Career counselors assist people with the process of making career decisions, by helping them choose a career or educational program.     

                       

Special Education Teachers:       Special education teachers work with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, to students with mild and moderate disabilities. They also teach basic skills, such as literacy and communication techniques, to students with severe disabilities.   

                           

Teacher Assistants:         Teacher assistants work under a teacher’s supervision to give students additional attention and instruction.