Library Technicians
Library technicians support librarians by helping patrons find books, databases, and reference materials using library systems. They work in public libraries, academic institutions, and special libraries, managing collections by cataloging, sorting, shelving, and maintaining materials. Most spend their time at library service desks and in stacks.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against library technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves assisting patrons at circulation desks, helping them search library catalogs and databases for specific titles or subjects. Technicians process new materials, update records, shelve books in proper order, and handle damaged items for repair or removal. Shifts may include evening or weekend hours. Administrative tasks include managing patron accounts and generating reports.
Who this work suits
Holland code CSR. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You do well in this role if you prefer organized systems and following established procedures, enjoy helping people locate information and solve problems, and work steadily with both people and details. A detail-oriented nature combined with genuine interest in assisting others makes this career a good fit.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold an associate degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- Library Technician-NF02 · United States Army Installation Management Command · Fort Drum, New York · $19.19–$19.69
- Library Technician NF-03 · United States Army Installation Management Command · Schofield Barracks, Hawaii · $49190–$52158
- Library Technician (Collections Specialist) · Library of Congress · Washington, District of Columbia · $70623–$91815
- LIBRARY TECHNICIAN, NF-1411-02 · U.S. Marine Corps · Jacksonville, North Carolina · $16.66–$16.66
- LIBRARY TECHNICIAN NF2 · U.S. Marine Corps · San Diego, California · $21.28–$21.28
- Library Technician · Commander, Navy Installations Command · Great Lakes, Illinois · $18–$18
- LIBRARY TECH NF2* · U.S. Marine Corps · Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California · $21.28–$21.28
- Library Technician NF-03 · United States Army Installation Management Command · Fort Benning, Georgia · $39653–$41740
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $56,850 | $62,570 | $75,780 | 1,850 |
| District of Columbia | $57,700 | $61,040 | $65,760 | 390 |
| Connecticut | $39,980 | $57,060 | $70,170 | 930 |
| California | $45,570 | $53,260 | $62,330 | 7,190 |
| Minnesota | $45,970 | $51,110 | $61,260 | 1,180 |
| Hawaii | $43,440 | $50,870 | $57,180 | 110 |
| Massachusetts | $45,890 | $50,430 | $61,090 | 1,910 |
| Vermont | $45,140 | $50,090 | $55,310 | 150 |
| New York | $43,030 | $50,060 | $62,570 | 3,390 |
| Oregon | $45,070 | $49,970 | $60,400 | 1,810 |
| Maryland | $42,500 | $48,920 | $61,620 | 1,980 |
| New Jersey | $36,760 | $48,840 | $61,830 | 1,060 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Consumer Health Information Specialization (CHIS) — Medical Library Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against library technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-4031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.