They Support independent learning and encourage reader development. they are sometimes referred to as information professionals. They also provide a wide range of information ob business, the community, carriers, learning and recreation.
Public librarians are proficient in the use of ICT as part of the role involves assisting the public in accessing the internet and other web-based services. They may also spend time talking to and building up relationships with members of the public and assisting with specific learning needs or community groups.
Public librarians may run events int he library for the local community and work with local schools and colleges.
What does a public librarian do?
- selecting, cataloguing and classifying library resources
- organizing resources in an accessible way
- stock maintenance, including the weeding out of old resources
- answering enquiries and assisting library users in accessing ICT and other resources
- providing reader, advisory and information services to the public and local businesses
- ensuring that library services meet the needs of particular groups of users, eg. children, adult learners, and schools
- organising library provision for specific community groups, schools, youth organizations, adult learners and pre-school groups
- undertaking reader development activities, which may or may not be directed at specific groups
- working with other agencies and bodies, such as museums and educational services, to develop services and initiatives int he community
- managing budgets, maintaining statistical and financial records
- using library systems, developing IT facilities and assisting with the use of computer equipment, databases and internet
- developing in the use of ICT to improve service delivery
- promoting and marketing library services, through displays, talks and community events
- anticipating community needs and trends to ensure library services are used as much as possible
- supporting independent research and learning
Some senior librarians may involved in additional activities, including:
- managing and motivating a team of staff who could be working in several libraries
- acquiring resources/funding
- overseeing the building of new libraries or the refurbishment of existing libraries
- giving presentations to groups
- strategic development of the service
Key Skills for Public Librarians
- motivation
- confidence
- excellent organizational skills
- team-working skills
- strong IT skills
- verbal communication skills
- interpersonal skills
References
- Target Jobs, http://targetjobs.co.uk/careers-advice/job-descriptions/278241-public-librarian-job-
description.
description.
- Prospects, http://www.prospects.ac.uk/public_librarian_job_description.htm
