Librarian Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

A Librarian, or Archivist oversees all functions of the library and its services. Their duties include digitally cataloguing new items and implementing new technology to update the system of old collections, managing the location of the library’s collections and materials and developing policies and procedures for the future and safety of the library’s assets.

 

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Librarian duties and responsibilities

A Librarian is responsible for a vast amount of information including audio, video and digital resources. Their duties include:

  • Supervising daily library operations and personnel activities, such as hiring, training, scheduling and performance evaluations
  • Helping people find information and empowering them to use basic computer skills for searching computerised databases
  • Performing in-depth strategic research, creating, analysing and editing library information
  • Digital archiving, developing and using databases and information systems to catalogue and access information
  • Reviewing and evaluating materials to select and order in print, audio-visual and electronic resources
  • Keeping up-to-date records of circulation, materials, maintaining inventory and correcting catalogue errors
  • Generating and tracking the budget and planning the acquisition of new, updated or replacement library resources
  • Organising and distributing reference materials and information, checking materials in and out of the library for patrons
  • Checking books and other materials in and out of the library

 

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Librarian Job Description Examples:

 

Example 1

Wycombe Abbey is a full boarding School which provides an outstanding all-round education for girls aged 11 to 18. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious and dynamic leader to shape the vision and strategy of the libraries at Wycombe Abbey, including re-designing our current services. Wycombe Abbey is a world leader in girls’ education and we are seeking someone who will value the opportunity to be involved in the modernisation and development of our learning resources. The Librarian is expected to work during Wycombe Abbey term time plus some additional weeks during the school holidays (38 working weeks). The Librarian is responsible for line management of the Librarian’s Assistant and also oversees the school archives. The successful candidate will ideally be a graduate with previous significant experience of library/resource centre management, preferably within an education setting. Further details are found under ‘Vacancies’ on the School website. *Closing date for applications: 09:00 on 22 June.* *Interviews: 30 June.* Application deadline: 21/06/2021 Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Salary: per year Benefits: * Bike to work scheme * Company pension * Discounted or free food * On-site parking * Sick pay COVID-19 considerations: A detailed COVID-19 risk assessment is in place for our site. Work remotely: * No

Example 2

*Academic Resources Manager / Digital Librarian **Role: * We are looking for an enthusiastic and organised information professional to manage our digital library and develop the resources and services it offers to students and academic staff. Reporting to the Head of Research, Publications and Enrichment, you will work closely with our Heads of School (Business, Allied Health, and Computing) to ensure that students and staff can access the academic resources, eBooks and eJournals they require. You will also plan and deliver a programme of training sessions and workshops that enable students to use the college’s digital resources successfully, building their skills and confidence, and underpinning their academic success. The role will involve remote working during the current Covid restrictions, with a move to a blend of predominantly remote and some limited on-site working at our London campuses once lockdown eases. *Main responsibilities: * · Provide a consistently high-quality Digital Library service that supports all students to achieve successful academic and professional outcomes. · Respond to and resolve issues raised by users, including access and use. · Manage, maintain and update the Digital Library’s resources [website] EBSCO, Heritage). · Develop services that are aligned with our University partners and meet the needs of students studying across different programmes and in different Schools. · Work closely with our Heads of School to review and update reading lists and ensure the availability of required eBooks, eJournals and other academic resources. · Collaborate with IT and student engagement teams to promote the use of digital tools and develop services that maintain a high level of student satisfaction. · Plan and deliver training and workshops as part of induction and ongoing support that build students’ skills and confidence in accessing and using digital resources. · Create information, support materials and guidance for students and staff, and disseminate these across various channels, including social media and Regent Digital. · Maintain the digital library Canvas page (updates, resources etc). · Build strong relationships with suppliers to ensure content is relevant and up to date, managing licensing and pricing agreements in pursuit of the best value. · Ensure copyright agreements and licenses are clear, updated and communicated to all. · Collect, analyse and report on data around usage, access, need and value for money, recommending and driving improvements. · Work flexibly and carry out any other responsibilities as reasonably required by senior management. *Person Specification: * You will have proven experience - · Working in an education environment (preferably with adult learners). · Performing a similar digital resources role, with customer facing responsibilities. · Using a variety of learning resource databases and digital education resources. · Cataloguing systems for library collections and working with licensing models. · Communicating the value of library and learning resources to students and staff. *Knowledge and skills required: * *You will need to demonstrate –* · A secure knowledge of library information technology, systems, products and delivery technologies (including EBSCO, Heritage and Canvas). · Confidence using Microsoft, social media platforms and web-based communication, information and collaboration tools. · Excellent customer service skills and a passion for supporting students and academics. · Strong organisation, an eye for detail, and a proactive, solutions-focused mindset. · Outstanding oral and written communication, and presentation skills. · A desire to work collaboratively and foster positive relations with staff at all levels. · The ability to work independently and as part of a team, in a fast-paced environment. · Flexibility, adaptability and a willingness to challenge the status quo. *Qualifications: * · Degree qualified (or equivalent). · Relevant professional qualifications · A member or willing to work towards membership of CILIP (or an equivalent organisation). Please apply with a cover letter detailing how you meet the requirement. Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Salary: per year Benefits: * On-site parking * Work from home Schedule: * Monday to Friday Education: * Bachelor's (preferred) Work remotely: * Temporarily due to COVID-19

Example 3

Librarian JOB Description Reporting to: Deputy Headteacher Role Objectives:
  • To contribute to, and develop the vision for, a 21st century library at Waddesdon, ensuring a balance of creativity and day-to-day practicality
  • To provide a high quality library service for the students, teachers and members of the wider community
  • To ensure that the library is a dynamic and purposeful place where learning can take place effectively and with a sense of joy Prescribed Duties:
  • Promote and safeguard the welfare of students according to school procedures.
  • Contribute to the provision of an effective environment for learning, by maintaining positive relationships with students, ensuring that the Library is welcoming and calm, and using appropriate display and publicity materials.
  • Maintain the different ‘learning’ zones within the library
  • Ensure that library stock is clearly organised and accessible.
  • Contribute to improved literacy across the school by encouraging all students to access and enjoy reading.
  • Select, purchase and process relevant stock.
  • Maintain ongoing dialogue with colleagues across all departments, so as to ensure that library resources best support up to date curriculum needs and reflect the reading ages and languages of the students.
  • Liaise with external bodies as appropriate, eg LISS, Museum Service, in order to enhance the quality of learning for students.
  • Liaise with Careers Advisor to purchase appropriate materials including university prospectuses for the Careers section.
  • Organise and promote book talks, author visits and other activities for students and the wider community.
  • Contribute to primary liaison activities.
  • Induct new students in library procedures and facilitate their independent learning skills.
  • Train and supervise student librarians to take responsibility for some aspects of running the library.
  • Encourage students’ appropriate use of ICT to enhance their learning.
  • Maintain the library budget, ensuring that all purchases provide best value for money.
  • Produce an annual report which details the impact of library provision on learning.
  • Work with school policies and procedures. Supporting Staff General
  • To work within school policies and procedures with an up-to-date understanding of Keeping Children Safe in Education and related Safeguarding, Child Protection and Code of Conduct requirements
  • To contribute to the provision of a supportive, aspirational and effective environment for learning
  • To support the promotion of positive relationships with parents and outside agencies
  • To attend skill training and participate in development as required
  • To take care of their own and other people's health and safety In addition, other duties at no higher level of responsibility may be interchanged with/added to this list as required. June 2021

    • Example 4

    *Job Title: * Librarian *School: * All Saints’ Catholic Voluntary Academy, Mansfield *Salary: * Band 3, £11,428 pa *Contract type: * 25 hours, term time only *Contract term: * Permanent *Closing date: * 9am Friday 2nd July 2021 *Start date: * 31st August 2021. All Saints’ is located in Mansfield – Nottinghamshire’s largest market town and just 12 miles to the North of Nottingham. We are one of the highest achieving schools in Nottinghamshire with a vision to provide a safe and inclusive learning environment for students to achieve and develop free from discrimination. One of the highest achieving schools in Nottinghamshire requires an organised and efficient Librarian on permanent basis. Specific responsibilities include: · Maintaining a welcoming and organised library including producing displays and signs · Issue and discharge of resources using the library computer system. · Understand general library practices as well as the practices of the specific library where they work. · Respond to requests in person, over the phone, or via email to answer questions and locate information. Applicants must have a minimum of five GCSEs or equivalent including English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above). Higher level academic qualifications will be considered an advantage. Applicants must have prior experience of working with young people, have strong communication skills and be able to demonstrate an ability to support students both in a pastoral and academic capacity. The successful candidate would also be expected to contribute to and work within the Catholic ethos of our school. All Saints’ values equality and diversity and welcomes applications from all sectors of the community. *For an application pack please visit [website] Our school is part of the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Multi-Academy Trust which brings together the 21 Catholic Primary and Secondary schools in Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire. Our priority is to ensure the very best Catholic Education for all young people in our community, whatever their circumstances. We will achieve this together, through a strategic approach to sharing best practice, effective challenge and support from a central standards and performance team and opportunities for high quality Continuing Professional Development offered by the CMAT’s teaching school, The Nottingham Catholic Teaching School Alliance. The Trust and All Saints’ Catholic Voluntary Academy are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all staff to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check and other pre-employment checks are required for successful applicants. We value equality and diversity and welcome applications from all sectors of the community including those of all faiths, the Catholic faith and those without a faith who are supportive of the school’s Catholic character and Christian ethos. *Why work for the Our Lady of Lourdes Multi Academy Trust?* * Access to first class CPD opportunities. We also work in partnership with Nottingham Teaching School Alliance to deliver meaningful and relevant CPD. Our Leadership Academy identifies and develops future leaders. * Genuine opportunities for career progression – with 21 academies in our family, and 84 academies across the Diocese, opportunities for career progression are a reality. * Professional assistance – you will have access to an Employee Assistance Programme which provides confidential, independent and unbiased information and guidance 24/7. If clinically advisable, it also offers face-to-face counselling sessions. * Pension – automatic enrolment into the Teachers’ Pension Scheme with 23.68% employer contributions, or to the Local Government Pension Scheme for support staff, one of the most competitive on the market, with employer contributions of above 20% in most cases. * Terms and Conditions – we have committed to following nationally agreed terms and conditions for pay for both teachers and support staff. *For more information about our Trust and our vacancies, please visit **[website] *Follow us on Twitter: * Part-time hours: 25 per week Application deadline: 02/07/2021 Expected start date: 31/08/2021 Job Types: Part-time, Permanent Salary: £11,428.00 per year

    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.

     

    Librarian samples for similar positions

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    Librarian job description FAQs

     

    What are the different types of Librarians?

    Librarians can be Medical Librarians who help people find information about health care and medical services as well as Electronic Resources Librarians who manage databases from third-parties and deal with electronic licensing. Other examples include Reference and Research Librarians who specialise in research, organise materials and services in a specific subject.

     

    What are the day-to-day duties of a Librarian?

    In addition to the management of the library, Librarians develop programs to reach the public and generate interest among new users. They develop programmes that include public educational events, speakers, exhibitions that relate to the library’s collections or initiate book clubs, children’s reading events or story times.

     

    Who does a Librarian report to?

    In a basic school library, a Librarian usually reports to the Principal. In college or university libraries they report to the Dean of Library Services. Sometimes they also report to the Library Board or a City official. In a law practice or hospital, the Librarian often reports to the CEO.

     

    What qualities make a good Librarian?

    Successful Librarians have qualities such as accuracy, efficiency and consistency. The ideal Librarian is committed, with a high level of dedication to the job. Bonus qualities include a passion for books and journals in both printed and electronic formats, devotion to academia and an avid enthusiasm for reading.

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