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

Jul 17, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Technical Services Librarian is a critical role in any library. Their primary responsibility is to acquire, catalog, and manage the librarys collection. This includes ordering, receiving, and processing books, periodicals, and other materials.

In doing so, they ensure that the librarys collection is up-to-date, organized, and easily accessible to patrons. As a result, the librarys patrons are able to locate material quickly, and the library itself can maintain its reputation of providing quality resources. Furthermore, having an organized collection also helps reduce operating costs, as it allows the library to efficiently process new items and discard outdated or unused materials.

In addition, Technical Services Librarians are often responsible for overseeing the librarys budget and managing their cataloging staff, making their role even more important in the running of a successful library.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a technical services librarian is to obtain a bachelor's degree. A degree in library science, computer science, engineering, or a related field is recommended.
Complete a Graduate Degree. To become a technical services librarian, one must obtain a master's degree in library science or a related field. A master's degree will give you the necessary knowledge and skills to manage library collections and technology.
Develop Technical Skills. To be a successful technical services librarian, you must have a strong knowledge of computers and technology. It is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends so you can effectively manage library collections and technology.
Pursue Certification. Many employers prefer technical services librarians who are certified by the American Library Association (ALA). Becoming certified requires completing coursework and passing an exam.
Gain Experience. Once you have obtained the necessary education and certification, you can begin seeking employment as a technical services librarian. You may be able to gain experience through internships or volunteer opportunities at local libraries.
Apply for Jobs. Once you have gained the necessary experience, you can begin applying for jobs as a technical services librarian. You can find job listings on websites such as Indeed. com or on professional library association websites.

In order to stay current and competent as a Technical Services Librarian, it is essential to regularly engage in professional development activities. This can include attending conferences, workshops, and webinars, reading professional literature, participating in online discussion forums, and connecting with peers through professional networks. By keeping up with the latest trends and developments in the field, librarians can stay abreast of changes in library technology, best practices in cataloging and metadata management, and other areas of professional expertise.

librarians can use their professional network to access resources and advice from colleagues with more experience in their area of interest. Keeping up with these activities and engaging in conversations with peers helps librarians stay up to date and competent.

You may want to check Library Fundraiser, Library Director, and Cataloging Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Manage the library's online catalog and other bibliographic databases.
Oversee the acquisition, cataloging and classification of library materials.
Develop and maintain library systems and procedures.
Assist patrons in locating materials, using online resources, and using library equipment.
Assist in developing and providing instruction on library resources, including classes or presentations.
Participate in library committee meetings and projects.
Oversee interlibrary loan requests and other document delivery services.
Create and maintain digital collections.
Provide technical assistance to staff, faculty, and students.
Develop and maintain library website content.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of library systems, software, and databases
Knowledge of cataloging, classification, and metadata standards
Knowledge of search strategies and research techniques
Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
Experience managing library collections
Ability to plan, coordinate and implement library projects
Ability to provide reference and research services
Strong customer service and communication skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Ability to stay current on technological advances in library services
Ability to use technology to create visual aids and presentations
Knowledge of copyright laws and information security practices

Technical services librarians play a key role in the operations of a library. They are responsible for cataloging, processing and maintaining library materials, organizing and retrieving library resources, and providing access to library services. The most important skill that a technical services librarian must possess is attention to detail.

A technical services librarian must be able to pay attention to small details in order to accurately catalog and process library materials. they must be able to work with multiple vendors and partners to ensure that their librarys materials are up-to-date and accessible. They must also have strong organizational skills so that resources can be easily located and retrieved when needed.

Good communication skills are also essential for technical services librarians in order to effectively collaborate with other staff members, vendors and patrons. The combination of these skills can ensure that the librarys resources are organized, up-to-date, and easily accessible.

Data Entry Clerk, Collection Development Specialist, and Reference Librarian are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have providing technical services for libraries?
How do you stay up to date on the latest trends and technologies in library technical services?
What strategies have you used to develop and maintain an efficient technical services workflow?
How do you ensure accuracy when cataloging library materials?
What experience do you have using library management systems such as Sierra or Alma?
How familiar are you with library standards such as MARC, RDA, and AACR2?
Describe a challenging project you encountered while working with library technical services and how you overcame it.
What techniques do you use to troubleshoot problems related to library technical services?
What is your experience with creating and managing cataloging records?
How do you prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects in technical services?

Common Tools in Industry

Digital Asset Management System. A system that stores, organizes, and manages digital files, allowing for efficient retrieval and access. (eg: Adobe Experience Manager)
Digital Preservation System. A system that ensures digital content is accessible and maintained over time. (eg: Archivematica)
Library Automation System. A system used to streamline library operations, such as cataloging, circulation, and acquisitions. (eg: Koha)
Discovery Platform. A system used to search across multiple library resources and collections. (eg: Summon)
Library Information System. A system used to track and provide access to library patrons borrowing activity and account information. (eg: LibLime)
Library Resource Sharing System. A system used to facilitate interlibrary loan services. (eg: OCLC ILLiad)
Learning Management System. A system used to create, manage, and deliver online courses and learning materials. (eg: Blackboard)
Reference Management System. A system that helps users store, organize, and cite their research materials. (eg: Mendeley)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Library Association (ALA)
Special Libraries Association (SLA)
Medical Library Association (MLA)
Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL)
Association for Library and Information Science Education (ALISE)
International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
American Association of Law Libraries (AALL)
Public Library Association (PLA)
Music Library Association (MLA)
Art Libraries Society of North America (ARLIS/NA)

We also have Acquisitions Librarian, Library Outreach Coordinator, and Circulation Librarian jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Cataloguing. The process of entering bibliographic information into a library system in order to make it available for users to locate and access.
Metadata. Data that describes other data, such as author, title, date of publication, etc.
Classification. The process of organizing and assigning items in a library collection into categories or classes for easier retrieval.
Resource Discovery. The process of searching for and retrieving library materials from local, national, and international sources.
Reference Services. The provision of assistance to library users in locating and using resources in the library's collection.
Instructional Services. The provision of assistance to library users in using library resources and services.
Digital Preservation. The process of preserving digital materials in order to ensure their long-term access and use.
Collection Development. The process of selecting, acquiring, and managing library materials in order to meet the needs of library users.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Technical Services Librarian?

A Technical Services Librarian is a professional responsible for managing the acquisition, cataloging, and processing of library materials.

What types of materials are typically managed by a Technical Services Librarian?

Technical Services Librarians manage physical and digital library materials such as books, journals, databases, and other media.

What skills are important for a Technical Services Librarian?

Technical Services Librarians need strong organizational and communication skills, as well as knowledge of library technology, cataloging standards, and copyright law.

How does a Technical Services Librarian acquire materials for the library?

Technical Services Librarians coordinate the acquisition of materials through purchase orders, donations, and inter-library loans.

What is the role of a Technical Services Librarian in cataloging library materials?

Technical Services Librarians are responsible for ensuring that library materials are accurately cataloged using appropriate metadata and standard classification systems such as the Library of Congress Classification or Dewey Decimal Classification.