Library Assistant

Library assistants participate in all aspects of library circulation and patron service duties. Their primary responsibility is to ensure all patron needs are met. This includes assisting patrons in general library services such as signing up for library cards, using the library catalog, and navigating the library’s various areas. They answer basic circulation and reference questions and assist patrons in finding materials they are searching for, as well as direct patrons to reference librarians for more complex questions. They may troubleshoot library equipment such as computers, copiers, and printers if they malfunction. Library assistants check in and check out materials and manage hold requests, as needed. They return materials to their proper location on the shelves, and occasionally “shelf read” to check that material on the shelves are in the correct order. Library assistants may help to open or close the library, depending on their schedule.

Library assistants work in a moderately busy public-service environment. They may work a part-time or full-time schedule, according to library needs. The majority of their time is spent at the circulation desk of the library, checking in and out materials and answering patron questions. Occasionally, they will re-shelve materials, assist a patron away from the desk or troubleshoot equipment. Library assistants generally work under the direct supervision of a circulation supervisor or other librarian who is available for questions or patron referrals.

Library assistants are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent. This is an entry-level position and typically requires no direct experience, although some customer service experience may be preferred. Some more advanced library assistant positions may require additional training such as a bachelor’s degree or prior library experience.

As a Library Assistant with 0-3 years of experience in Singapore, your main responsibilities include:

• Assist patrons with locating and retrieving books, resources, and materials within the library. Provide guidance and support in finding specific titles or information.
• Maintain an organized and user-friendly library environment. Shelf reading, organizing materials, and ensuring shelves are tidy and in order.
• Process and catalog new library acquisitions. Accurately label and classify new items and update the library database accordingly.
• Provide basic reference and research assistance to library users.

For a Library Assistant job role, the following qualifications are required:

• Strong knowledge of library systems and procedures to assist patrons with locating and checking out books, and to maintain organized shelves and collections.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with library users, providing information, answering queries, and offering assistance in a friendly and professional manner.
• Proficiency in technology and digital resources, including library databases, online catalogs, and e-book platforms, to assist users in accessing digital materials and to troubleshoot any technical issues.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills to perform tasks such as cataloging, inventory management, and shelving accurately and efficiently.

For a Library Assistant job role with 0-3 years of experience in Singapore, here are following alternative roles to consider:

• Archivist: This position involves organizing and preserving valuable collections of records or documents, ensuring their proper maintenance, and assisting researchers with access to the materials.
• Cataloger: A role focused on creating catalog records for library materials, including books, periodicals, and multimedia items. Catalogers ensure accurate and consistent categorization and retrieval of resources.
• Research Assistant: This position supports academic or professional research initiatives by conducting literature reviews, gathering data, and assisting with data analysis. Research assistants contribute to the production of scholarly work.
• Outreach Coordinator: This role involves engaging with library patrons and the wider community.

The job role of a Library Assistant in Singapore is expected to witness steady growth in the market. Over a 10-year analysis, we can anticipate an increase in employment opportunities for Library Assistants. According to recent data from Google, the demand for library services continues to grow, indicating a positive outlook for this position. With the ongoing digitization of libraries, Library Assistants are becoming increasingly essential in managing digital resources and assisting patrons with accessing information. This trend suggests a sustained need for competent individuals in this role, ensuring promising job prospects for aspiring Library Assistants in the future.