How to Become a Good Librarian

Choosing a job can be a daunting process, but perhaps doing it can be tricky. If you chose to work as a librarian and you have some anxiety and fear, then read on.

Table of Contents

Steps

Know how libraries work. Most libraries use the Dewey Decimal System (Dewey Decimal System), so do your research on it. Fiction books are often organized by the author’s last name, so look what’s there: for example, know what to do when a name has a line or prefix (“Mc” in McCann) or “di” in “DiAngelo”).

Know what jobs librarians have to do. You’re probably not responsible for all of them (unless your library is small), but it’s best to have working knowledge of each of them. The librarian’s daily duties may include:
- Reorder bookshelves (put back newly returned books)
- Checking books in and out (usually with an electronic scanner; however, some libraries may use older methods, like stamping)
- Read on your own (go through all the books on their shelves to make sure they’re all in the right places)
- Manage events and activities (there are often programs in libraries for people of all ages, like book clubs and crafts)
- Manage certain rooms (like non-fiction or children’s books)
- Find requested books (updated libraries may have online catalogs that people can use to order books from neighboring libraries)
- Handling new books (new books need barcodes, classifications, and catalog items)
- Help customers find books
Most libraries have digitized systems for keeping track of their books. Make sure you know how the most common systems work, and have an understanding of exactly how to use them.
In any particular library, different types of books will be located in different areas. Make sure you know where to find nonfiction, teen fiction, adult fiction, and more – not only guide newcomers to your library, but also make Tasks like rearranging bookshelves to make it easier for you.

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Read, read and read. Sometimes clients will ask about recommendations or if you have a book that covers a certain topic. It is good to know the books in your library so that you can help the customers as much as possible.

Be understanding of your customers. In a small library, you are likely to see the exact same people coming in every day. Even in larger libraries, there are “regular visitors” that you will very often see. Know the preferences of regular visitors so you can suggest new books to them. Also be aware of those who tend to cause insecurity or delay in returning books.

You’ve probably seen or read about the stereotypical librarian, the scowling old lady with glasses and who’s always hissing “hiss!” if you whisper too much. Don’t be such a librarian. Be a cheerful person. Smile at people, ask them if they found something they want, and be positive.

Please dress modestly. No need to dress up in tight, gray shirts; You will need convenience for the whole day. However, don’t wear a T-shirt and shorts. Dress casually for work: for women, a long-sleeve sweater or blouse with a skirt, casual pants, or jeans will do. For men, a comfortable khaki t-shirt or button-down shirt or trousers may be fine.

Make sure you have comfortable shoes. You might think librarians sit behind their desks all day, but sometimes you have to walk. No high heels for women and no brand new shoes for men.
Avoid wearing jewelry that jingle or rattles. This is very audible in the quiet library.

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Learn from mistakes. Even the best librarians make mistakes. If you make a mistake, stay calm. Admit the error and/or apologize if the situation calls for it.

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Learn from others. If you have a former or current librarian as a friend or partner, ask them for advice. They will probably have some helpful hints and jokes of their own.

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Please interact with the library staff. Be friendly and kind. As with any work situation, it is helpful to have good relations with your colleagues.

Advice

Be on time.
Being attentive to customers doesn’t mean ignoring penalties. Be strong when you need to be, but never be disrespectful.

Steps

Advice

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