Librarian
Librarians organise information and help people access books, research materials and digital resources. Depending on the workplace, they may support the general public, school pupils, students or people carrying out specialist research.
Day to day Tasks
- Select and organise books, publications and digital resources for library users.
- Maintain catalogues and help people find reliable information.
- Recommend reading and support research or study enquiries.
- Plan activities, reading initiatives or sessions introducing library resources.
- Help users access online collections, computers and other information services.
- Review the collection and manage purchases within available budgets.
- Coordinate day-to-day services and support colleagues or volunteers where required.
Skills and Knowledge
- An interest in reading, information and helping people learn.
- Strong research skills and the ability to judge the reliability of information.
- Clear communication and an approachable manner.
- Good organisation and accuracy when cataloguing and maintaining records.
- Confidence with digital resources and library-management systems.
- The ability to understand and respond to different users’ needs.
- Awareness of privacy, responsible information use and access requirements.
Industry Qualifications
Professional librarian posts may ask for a degree or postgraduate qualification in librarianship, library and information studies or a related subject. CILIP, the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, provides information about accredited courses and professional recognition, including Chartership.