How to Be Library Intern - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 26, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The cause of the increasing demand for library interns is the rising popularity of digital libraries and the need for knowledgeable professionals to help patrons utilize the new technology. As a result, library internships are becoming more prevalent in both academic and public libraries. This has led to an influx of interns who can assist with tasks such as cataloging, archiving, and providing reference services.

library interns play an important role in introducing new technology and strategies to library patrons, helping to ensure that libraries remain modern and relevant. Furthermore, library interns help to cultivate a positive library experience for patrons, which leads to increased library patronage and revenue for the library.

Steps How to Become

Research library internships to find one that matches your needs and qualifications. Look for a library internship that offers the type of experience you're looking for and that is in an area you're interested in.
Prepare your application materials. This may include a resume, cover letter, references, and a portfolio of your work. Make sure to highlight any relevant skills and experiences in your application materials.
Submit your application. If you are applying to multiple library internships, make sure to tailor your materials to each position.
Follow up with the library to ensure they received your application.
Participate in any interviews or assessments the library may require.
Sign any necessary contracts or agreements that the library may require for the internship.
Attend any necessary training sessions or orientations related to the internship.
Follow all rules and regulations set by the library.
Complete all tasks assigned by the library in a timely and professional manner.
Participate actively and enthusiastically in all library activities and programs.
Keep records of your accomplishments and any challenges you faced during the internship.
Evaluate your experience at the end of the internship and use the feedback to inform future job searches and applications.

Staying ahead and capable as a library intern requires a dedication to learning and continuous improvement. Taking initiative by researching best practices, attending professional development programs, and networking with fellow professionals can help you develop the necessary skills to stay ahead. Being organized and proactive in your approach to projects will also demonstrate your commitment to the job.

setting long-term goals and working hard to meet those goals will help you maintain the necessary knowledge and abilities to be an effective library intern. By having a proactive attitude, staying organized, and continually learning, you can be capable of taking on any library-related task.

You may want to check Chief Librarian, Library Assistant, and Adult Services Librarian for alternative.

Job Description

Assist with cataloging library materials, including books, magazines, and other media
Process circulation requests and check out library materials
Maintain library resources and services
Provide basic reference services to patrons
Assist patrons with locating and retrieving library materials
Help process new book and media acquisitions
Process interlibrary loan requests
Prepare and shelve library materials in appropriate areas
Manage library database to ensure accurate records of library materials
Assist patrons with using technology to access library resources
Create and maintain library displays
Participate in collection development activities, such as book reviews and selection
Assist with maintaining library resources and updating library collections
Provide basic computer assistance to patrons
Assist with planning and executing library events
Monitor library activities and keep records of patron use
Assist with developing and implementing library policies and procedures

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of library systems, software, and procedures
Demonstrated research and problem-solving skills
Excellent organizational and time management skills
Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
Strong customer service orientation and interpersonal skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work well with diverse groups of people
Ability to use library technology, including computers and scanners
Knowledge of cataloguing systems and classification schemes
Ability to maintain accuracy in data entry and retrieval
Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

The most important skill for a Library Intern to possess is the ability to effectively communicate with patrons. Good communication skills are essential for providing excellent customer service and addressing patron needs. Without these abilities, a Library Intern may struggle to foster a positive relationship with patrons or provide accurate and helpful information.

strong communication skills can also help Library Interns build relationships with other library staff and collaborate on library projects. Being able to communicate well can also help Library Interns identify potential areas of improvement in the library and suggest appropriate solutions. effective communication is key to a successful Library Internship and is an indispensable skill for any aspiring librarian.

Library Technology Trainer, Library Page, and Library Webmaster are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with library systems and databases?
Describe the most challenging library project that you have worked on.
How do you handle customer complaints or requests?
What strategies do you use to stay organized and manage multiple library projects?
How do you stay up to date with library trends and best practices?
What experience do you have with cataloging and classification?
What experience do you have with digitization processes?
What experience do you have with reference services?
How do you handle difficult patrons or situations?
What do you think makes a successful library internship?

Common Tools in Industry

Microsoft Office Suite. This suite of software tools includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Access. (e. g. creating a research paper in Word, tracking data in Excel)
Adobe Acrobat. This PDF software allows users to create and convert documents into PDF files. (e. g. converting a Word document to a PDF file)
Library Management Software. This software helps librarians manage library collections, catalogs, and circulation. (e. g. cataloging books in the library)
Online Research Databases. These databases provide access to a variety of information sources such as journal articles and books. (e. g. searching for scholarly articles on a topic)
Integrated Library System (ILS). This software helps librarians manage library operations and access to library resources. (e. g. issuing library cards to patrons)
Reference Management Software. This software helps organize and manage references for research papers and other documents. (e. g. creating a bibliography for an academic paper)
Digital Media Editing Software. These tools allow users to create and edit audio, video, and graphic content. (e. g. creating a promotional video for the library)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Library Association (ALA)
Special Libraries Association (SLA)
Association of Research Libraries (ARL)
Medical Library Association (MLA)
International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL)
American Association of School Librarians (AASL)
Public Library Association (PLA)
International Association of Music Libraries, Archives, and Documentation Centres (IAML)
International Association of Law Libraries (IALL)

We also have Library Clerk, Archivist, and Document Delivery Coordinator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Cataloging. The process of organizing and maintaining information about library resources. It includes assigning descriptive information to each item, such as titles and authors, as well as organizing them into categories or collections.
Circulation. The process of lending library materials to patrons and tracking their usage. This includes checking out items, monitoring overdue items, and charging fines.
Classification. The process of organizing library materials by subject. This is done by assigning call numbers to items, which indicate the subject as well as the item's location in the library.
Reference. The process of providing patrons with information on a variety of topics. This includes helping them locate materials in the library, answering questions, and providing research assistance.
Collection Development. The process of selecting materials to be added to the library collection. This includes evaluating existing materials and making decisions about what to purchase or discard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What responsibilities does a Library Intern typically have? A1: A Library Intern typically has responsibilities such as cataloging books and other library materials, helping patrons find information, assisting with library programs and events, and performing general administrative tasks. Q2: How many hours a week does a Library Intern usually work? A2: A Library Intern usually works between 10 and 20 hours a week. Q3: What qualifications are needed to be a Library Intern? A3: To be a Library Intern, one typically needs to have a high school diploma or equivalent, excellent customer service and organizational skills, and knowledge of library systems and services. Q4: What type of environment does a Library Intern typically work in? A4: A Library Intern typically works in a quiet, professional environment such as a public library or academic library. Q5: What kind of salary does a Library Intern usually make? A5: A Library Intern usually makes an hourly wage that is usually between $9 and $15 per hour.