How to Be Media Services Librarian - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 7, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The demand for media services librarians has increased over the years due to the growing popularity of multimedia resources and digital media. As a result, libraries have had to hire more professionals to manage and provide access to these resources. Furthermore, media services librarians are responsible for staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends in digital media, as well as developing digital media literacy skills among library patrons.

This has also increased the need for media services librarians, who must be knowledgeable in areas such as copyright law, archiving, metadata, and digital asset management. By doing so, they can ensure that all library patrons have access to the latest and most relevant digital media resources.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. To become a media services librarian, individuals will need to obtain a bachelor's degree in library science, information science, or a related field. Coursework typically focuses on library practices, policies, and research methods.
Obtain a Master's Degree. Most states require media services librarians to possess a master's degree in library science or a related field. During this program, students typically learn about cataloging, reference services, and library management.
Gain Work Experience. Many employers prefer to hire media services librarians with some prior experience in the field. Obtaining an internship or volunteer position at a library can help individuals gain the necessary skills and knowledge.
Obtain Certification. While not required, certification can demonstrate a librarian's competency in the field and make them more attractive to employers. The American Library Association offers the Certified Public Library (CPL) credential to those who meet certain requirements.
Get Licensed. Some states require media services librarians to be licensed or certified in order to practice in the state. Licensing requirements vary by state but may include passing an exam or completing continuing education courses.

The role of a Media Services Librarian is to ensure that libraries are providing patrons with the best possible access to media materials. This means providing accurate and up-to-date information on the various media materials available, as well as organizing and cataloging these materials. To do this effectively, a Media Services Librarian must possess a wide range of skills and be highly competent in the areas of library science, information technology, and communication.

Having strong organizational skills is also essential, as is the ability to remain current on media trends and technologies. The successful performance of a Media Services Librarian can have a positive impact on the overall functioning of the library, allowing patrons to access and utilize the best materials available.

You may want to check Technical Support Specialist, Data Entry Clerk, and Cataloging Librarian for alternative.

Job Description

Provide leadership in the selection, acquisition, evaluation, organization, cataloging, and maintenance of audio/visual materials in a variety of formats.
Develop and maintain policies and procedures related to media services.
Monitor and analyze trends in media services.
Develop and maintain a budget for media services activities.
Create and manage databases for media services resources.
Develop instructional material about the use of media services resources.
Train library staff and patrons on the use of media services resources.
Provide reference services related to media services.
Develop and maintain webpages related to media services.
Develop collaborative relationships with other departments to maximize media services resources.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of media technologies, formats, and software
Understanding of copyright and intellectual property laws
Ability to create and curate digital media collections
Proficiency in metadata cataloging and catalog/discovery systems
Experience with digitization projects and digital preservation
Familiarity with digital asset management systems
Skilled at developing and delivering digital media-related workshops and instruction sessions
Competence in troubleshooting media-related hardware and software issues
Strong communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills
Ability to work collaboratively with faculty and other library staff

Having strong communication skills is essential for any Media Services Librarian. Being able to effectively communicate with both library patrons and colleagues is essential to coordinating the many tasks required of a librarian. Communication skills include the ability to listen to what others have to say, ask questions, and explain concepts clearly.

the ability to develop relationships with patrons is essential in order to provide helpful and relevant services. Strong organizational skills are also key for effective library service. It is important for a Media Services Librarian to be able to prioritize tasks and organize materials in an efficient manner.

This includes the ability to classify and catalogue materials, create innovative methods of organization, and create effective systems for storing information. Finally, a Media Services Librarian must possess a deep knowledge of resources related to their field. This includes an understanding of the latest technology and trends, as well as being familiar with the library's collections.

Having an understanding of the different types of media available and how to access them is essential for helping patrons with their research. By having these skills, a Media Services Librarian can effectively assist library patrons and ensure their satisfaction with library services.

Systems Librarian, Library Director, and Special Collections Librarian are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with media services in a library setting?
How do you ensure that the media services provided by the library are up-to-date and relevant to users?
Describe a time when you successfully handled a difficult situation with a patron regarding media services.
How do you stay informed about new and emerging media services within the library?
What strategies do you use to promote the library's media services to patrons?
How would you go about troubleshooting technical issues related to the library's media services?
What methods do you use to evaluate the library's media services for effectiveness?
What techniques do you use to stay organized when managing multiple media services within the library?
How would you collaborate with other departments in the library to ensure successful implementation of media services?
Describe a project or initiative you have taken on in the past related to media services in a library setting.

Common Tools in Industry

Database Management System (DBMS). A software system that stores, organizes, and manages data. (e. g. MySQL, Oracle, Microsoft Access).
Video Editing Software. Software used to edit and manipulate digital video files. (e. g. Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro).
Media Streaming Platforms. Platforms used to stream audio and video content over the internet. (e. g. YouTube, Netflix).
Digital Asset Management System (DAMS). A software system used to manage digital content. (e. g. Adobe Experience Manager, Microsoft SharePoint).
Metadata Standards. Specifications for how data should be structured and described. (e. g. Dublin Core, VRA Core).
Digital Preservation Tools. Tools used to preserve digital assets over time. (e. g. Archivematica, Preservica).
Content Management Systems (CMS). Software used to store and manage digital content. (e. g. WordPress, Drupal).
Copyright Compliance Software. Software used to protect intellectual property rights. (e. g. Copyright Clearance Center, Digimarc).
Web Development Tools. Software used to create websites and web applications. (e. g. HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript).
Social Media Platforms. Platforms used to share content with an online audience. (e. g. Twitter, Facebook, Instagram).

Professional Organizations to Know

Association for Library Collections & Technical Services (ALCTS)
American Library Association (ALA)
Digital Library Federation (DLF)
Special Libraries Association (SLA)
Music Library Association (MLA)
International Association of Music Libraries, Archives, and Documentation Centres (IAML)
Audio Engineering Society (AES)
Society of American Archivists (SAA)
Society of Cinema and Media Studies (SCMS)
National Federation of Abstracting and Indexing Services (NFAIS)

We also have Library Page, Library Technician, and Technical Services Librarian jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Digital Asset Management (DAM). A system used to store, manage and track digital media, such as images, video, audio and documents.
Metadata. Data about data, such as descriptive information about a file or media asset.
Streaming. The process of delivering digital media to users over the internet.
File Formats. The type of file used to store digital media, such as JPEG, MP3, and PDF.
Digital Rights Management (DRM). A system designed to protect and control access to digital media.
Accessibility. The ability of a user to access and use digital media regardless of their physical location or ability.
User Interface (UI). The interface between a user and a computer system, such as a website or program.
Automation. The process of using software or technology to automate manual tasks, such as cataloging or searching for media assets.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO). The process of optimizing web content in order to improve its visibility in search engine results.
Networked Storage. A system that allows multiple users to access and store digital media on a shared network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Media Services Librarian? A1: A Media Services Librarian is a professional who is responsible for providing library services related to materials in non-print formats, such as audiovisuals, digital media, and streaming content. Q2: What are the duties of a Media Services Librarian? A2: The duties of a Media Services Librarian include creating and managing online collections, providing instruction in the use of digital media, collaborating with faculty to develop effective use of digital media in the classroom, and developing policies and procedures for the use of media in the library. Q3: What qualifications are needed to become a Media Services Librarian? A3: To become a Media Services Librarian, individuals must have a Master's degree in Library Science or a related field, and experience with digital media technology. Q4: How many hours per week does a Media Services Librarian usually work? A4: A Media Services Librarian typically works 40 hours per week, but the exact number of hours may vary depending on the size and scope of the library. Q5: What salary range can a Media Services Librarian expect to earn? A5: According to Payscale, the average salary for a Media Services Librarian is $55,692 per year.