What does a Librarian do?

Most Librarians work inside schools, colleges, universities and public libraries. They may also work in law offices and museums. Typically, they work thirty-five hours a week, some evenings and weekends. They may work full-time, part-time or participate in job share opportunities. Library settings vary between small community libraries that serve a specific location, large central libraries and mobile libraries make scheduled visits to outlying and rural locations. Additionally, a Librarian may have to travel between various satellite locations or mobile hub facilities. Their work revolves around serving people face-to-face and responding to frequent enquiries.

Librarian skills and qualifications

Librarians possess a high-level degree in information science. They are systematic and have a methodical work ethic with a keen eye for detail. Proficiency in MS Office and familiarity with library management systems (LMS) are a plus. A successful Librarian candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include:

• Excellent customer service skills and interpersonal skills to interact with local communities and possible foreign languages
• Active listening skills, a good memory and interpersonal skills
• Strong IT skills and methodical tendencies and the ability to meet deadlines
• Robust research skills, logical-thinking aptitude and keeping up with information management trends
• Organisational, self-management skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to exhibit leadership, train, motivate and manage others
• Understand general and specific library practices

Librarian experience requirements

Librarians must complete an internship or complete assigned work at a designated field placement location before graduating with a Master of Library and Information Science (MLS) degree. The number of years of work experience required depends on the type, size and speciality of the library. However, most employers prefer one to eight years of experience. Experience in the same type of library is helpful, for example, administration of a public, academic, research or school library. Additionally, an ideal candidate requires a second degree with relevant experience for speciality libraries such as museums, corporations, medical library networks and professional organisations.

Librarian education and training requirements

A Librarian requires a Master of Library and Information Science (MLS) degree and certification with the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP). Academic libraries require a second master’s degree in speciality areas. Other certifications include the Association of Information Management (ASLIB) and the British Association for Information and Library Education Research (BAILER). Some employers may accept degrees in a field other than librarianship. However, such candidates must present a postgraduate qualification in information management or a related field that is accredited by CILIP. Some schools may also require a Librarian to hold a qualified teacher status (QTS) certificate.

Librarian salary expectation

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Librarian in the UK is £26,541 per year. Salary may be dependent on experience, location and company.

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