Librarian Career Description
Library and information work is a challenging career that is
concerned with information in every form, not only books and libraries. It involves the collection, organizing or arranging and supplying of sources in various formats for education, information, cultural development, recreation and the supplying of information services to various communities and specialists.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Librarians and information workers carry out
the following functions:
» Selection and obtaining of information sources that satisfy the needs of the users.
» Organisation and management of information sources and facilities for easy accessibility to users.
» Supplying information to users.
Librarians and information workers can work under various circumstances:
» At public libraries they attempt to satisfy the educational, recreational and information needs of local communities.
» At school media centre they provide for the information needs of pupils and teachers.
» At universities and college libraries they provide in the information needs of students, lecturers and researchers.
» At special libraries and information services they offer a specialized and personal service to users attached to research institutions, industries, financial institutions, professional career practices or cultural organisations.
» At national libraries they are responsible for the compilation, upkeep and supply of a complete collection of material published in and on a specific country.
» In related areas where library training and skills are applicable, like free-lancing and lecturing.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Prospective librarians and information workers must have a wide field of interest and a good general knowledge. An inquiring mind, tidiness and an ability to organize are also important qualities. Good interpersonal relationships with people are a recommendation.
Where can I work?
Librarians and information workers are employed by schools, city councils, universities, and colleges, big government organisations, research bodies and other organisations with libraries. The work of a librarian and information worker is becoming more complex with the improvement in information technology and therefore there is a need for qualified persons to work especially at research at university libraries.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
The only possibility for self-employment for persons with qualifications in this career is freelance work in related fields.
|
