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Education & TrainingDeclining

Library Technician

Operational-level

Also known as: Accessioner, Audio-Visual Aide, Bibliographer, Bindery Library Technical Assistant

Education & TrainingBachelor's Degree

Job Description

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.
Library ScienceInformation ScienceCollection ManagementReference ServicesEducationPublic ServiceInformation ManagementTeaching

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

In-demand software
Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft Office software

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

-6.4%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

10,800

per year (US)

Jobs today

72,800

in 2025 → 68,100 (2035)

Typical entry education

Postsecondary nondegree award

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
High
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
Moderate
Time spent sitting
Moderate
Working outdoors
Low
Indoor, climate-controlled
High
Dealing with customers
High
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Declining Job Market

This field is experiencing contraction with decreasing job opportunities. Consider developing skills in related growing fields.

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will likely automate routine tasks like cataloging, sorting, and some reference inquiries through chatbots, allowing library technicians to focus on more complex user support and digital literacy training. However, human interaction for personalized recommendations and community engagement will remain crucial, evolving their role towards specialized patron services.