librarian/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — librarian

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 25-4022.00 (Librarians and Media Collections Specialists).

Task statements

• [Core] Check books in and out of the library.
• [Core] Teach library patrons basic computer skills, such as searching computerized databases.
• [Core] Review and evaluate materials, using book reviews, catalogs, faculty recommendations, and current holdings to select and order print, audio-visual, and electronic resources.
• [Core] Keep up-to-date records of circulation and materials, maintain inventory, and correct cataloging errors.
• [Core] Search standard reference materials, including online sources and the Internet, to answer patrons' reference questions.
• [Core] Analyze patrons' requests to determine needed information and assist in furnishing or locating that information.
• [Core] Supervise daily library operations, budgeting, planning, and personnel activities, such as hiring, training, scheduling, and performance evaluations.
• [Core] Plan and teach classes on topics such as information literacy, library instruction, and technology use.
• [Core] Confer with colleagues, faculty, and community members and organizations to conduct informational programs, make collection decisions, and determine library services to offer.
• [Core] Code, classify, and catalog books, publications, films, audio-visual aids, and other library materials, based on subject matter or standard library classification systems.
• [Core] Respond to customer complaints, taking action as necessary.
• [Core] Explain use of library facilities, resources, equipment, and services, and provide information about library policies.
• [Core] Plan and deliver client-centered programs and services, such as special services for corporate clients, storytelling for children, newsletters, or programs for special groups.
• [Core] Locate unusual or unique information in response to specific requests.
• [Core] Troubleshoot problems with audio-visual equipment.
• [Core] Develop library policies and procedures.
• [Core] Direct and train library staff in duties, such as receiving, shelving, researching, cataloging, and equipment use.
• [Core] Evaluate materials to determine outdated or unused items to be discarded.
• [Core] Develop, maintain, and troubleshoot information access aids, such as databases, annotated bibliographies, Web pages, electronic pathfinders, software programs, and online tutorials.
• [Core] Engage in professional development activities, such as taking continuing education classes and attending or participating in conferences, workshops, professional meetings, and associations.
• [Core] Compile lists of books, periodicals, articles, and audio-visual materials on particular subjects.
• [Core] Confer with teachers to select course materials and to determine which training aids are best suited to particular grade levels.
• [Core] Evaluate vendor products and performance, negotiate contracts, and place orders.
• [Core] Arrange for interlibrary loans of materials not available in a particular library.
• [Core] Represent library or institution on internal and external committees.
• [Core] Set up, adjust, and operate audio-visual equipment, such as cameras, film and slide projectors, and recording equipment, for meetings, events, classes, seminars, and video conferences.
• [Core] Assemble and arrange display materials.
• [Supplemental] Maintain inventory of audio-visual equipment.
• [nan] Maintain hardware and software, including computers, media equipment, scanners, color copiers, and color laser printers.
• [nan] Train faculty and media staff on the use of software and audio-visual equipment.

Detailed work activities

• Attend training sessions or professional meetings to develop or maintain professional knowledge.
• Classify materials according to standard systems.
• Collaborate with other teaching professionals to develop educational programs.
• Compile specialized bibliographies or lists of materials.
• Confer with others to conduct or arrange operational activities.
• Construct exhibits or parts of exhibits.
• Develop library or archival databases.
• Develop policies or procedures for archives, museums or libraries.
• Diagnose equipment malfunctions.
• Direct activities of subordinates.
• Direct department activities.
• Help patrons use library or archival resources.
• Inspect materials or equipment to determine need for repair or replacement.
• Inventory materials or equipment.
• Maintain computer equipment or software.
• Maintain inventories of materials, equipment, or products.
• Maintain inventory records.
• Maintain operational records.
• Maintain the inventory of equipment.
• Negotiate purchases or contracts.
• Operate audiovisual equipment.
• Order instructional or library materials or equipment.
• Plan community programs or activities for the general public.
• Process library materials.
• Search information sources to find specific data.
• Select educational materials or equipment.
• Serve on institutional or departmental committees.
• Teach others to use technology or equipment.
• Train staff members.
• Troubleshoot equipment or systems operation problems.