Library Assistants and Bookmobile Drivers

Career summary

Library assistants and bookmobile drivers help people borrow materials from the library. They record information from the borrower and issue a library card. They answer routine questions and refer people to the librarian if needed.

Though library assistants and bookmobile drivers share many of the same duties, each has job-specific tasks as well.

Library assistants

When customers borrow items, assistants record or scan information from the borrower's library card. When they return items, assistants check the due date and inspect the item for damage. Library assistants repair damaged books, using mending tape and paste. They may collect overdue fines. They sort the items and return them to shelves or storage areas. They deliver and retrieve items by hand or pushcart.

Library assistants maintain records of library items. They may classify and catalog items according to their contents and purpose, with guidance from a librarian. In addition, they may perform some clerical work, including typing, filing, and photocopying.

Library assistants operate and maintain audio-visual equipment. They explain how to use reference equipment, computerized databases, and the Internet.

Some library assistants specialize in helping patrons who have vision problems. They review the borrower's list and locate the items. These could include large-type or Braille volumes, tapes, or talking books.

A few library assistants may operate small branch libraries, under supervision.

Bookmobile drivers

Bookmobile drivers take trucks stocked with books to places in the community or to remote areas. Drivers follow a schedule and drive the bookmobile to specified sites. They may help people with disabilities get into the bookmobile. They may go into hospitals or nursing homes to deliver books. Drivers may work alone or be accompanied by a library technician. When they work alone, they perform many of the same duties as library assistants.

Related careers

This career is part of the Business Management and Administration cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Bank Tellers
• Concierges
• Counter and Rental Clerks
• Counter Attendants
• Data Entry Keyers
• General Office Clerks
• Health Information Technicians
• Hotel Desk Clerks
• Interviewing Clerks
• Library Technical Assistants
• License Clerks
• Postal Clerks
• Receptionists
• Route Salespeople
• Stock Clerks

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to library assistants and bookmobile drivers.

• Issue library cards to borrowers according to established procedures.
• Locate library materials for customers.
• Check out books for customers. Record or scan information from library cards.
• Use computers to update patron records and process new books and software.
• Answer routine questions and refer customers to a librarian if needed.
• Inspect returned books for damage, check due date, and collect overdue fines.
• Sort books and other items and return them to shelves or storage areas.
• Classify and catalog items according to contents and purpose.
• Prepare, store, and retrieve library-related information using a computer.
• Review records to find titles of overdue materials and to identify borrower. Send out notices about overdue materials.
• Operate and maintain audio-visual equipment. Explain how to use reference equipment.
• Repair books and protect them by adding plastic covers.
• Deliver and retrieve items to and from departments in the library.
• Drive bookmobile to specified locations, following a schedule.

Common work activities

Library assistants and bookmobile drivers perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Use computers
• Get information needed to do the job
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Handle and move objects
• Perform for or work with the public
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Process information
• Document and record information
• Assist and care for others
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Perform administrative tasks
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Think creatively

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, library assistants and bookmobile drivers:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a medium to high level of social contact. They talk to library patrons, but also spend time alone working with the books.
• Communicate by telephone, e-mail, and in person on a daily basis.
• Often work in a group or as part of a team.
• Are somewhat responsible for the work done by others.

Physical work conditions

• Usually work indoors. However, bookmobile drivers work outdoors and indoors. They drive their trucks in all kinds of weather.
• Work near others. They share the same space with library patrons and other library employees.
• Are occasionally exposed to contaminants, such as car or truck exhaust.

Work performance

• Must be exact in their work so that people can find books.
• Make most decisions without talking to a supervisor first.
• Set most of their daily tasks and goals without talking to a supervisor first.
• Repeat the same physical activities.

Hours/travel

• Generally work a set schedule.
• May work part time or full time. Most work full time.
• May work evenings and weekends.
• May work flexible schedules.
• May drive bookmobiles daily or only every few days. Bookmobile drivers may work in the library a few days each week.

Physical demands

Library assistants and bookmobile drivers frequently:

• Repeat the same movements.
• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Sit for long periods of time.

It is important for library assistants and bookmobile drivers to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for library assistants and bookmobile drivers to be able to:

• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.

Skills and abilities

Library assistants and bookmobile drivers need to:

Communicate

• Understand written information.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand spoken information.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.

Reason and problem solve

• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.

Work with people

• Look for ways to help people.
• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.

Perceive and visualize

• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Library Assistant
• Truck and Bus Driving

Other programs of study to consider

• Library Science
• Office Support

Training

To work as a library assistant or bookmobile driver, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is usually required beyond high school for this occupation. However, if you want to drive a bookmobile you may need a commercial driver's license (CDL). Some states require you to complete a training program before you can get a CDL. These programs usually take a few months to complete.

Work experience

Volunteer work at your school or community library is good work experience for this occupation.

On-the-job training

Most library technicians and bookmobile drivers receive training on the job from experienced workers. Training includes:

• checking out books;
• checking in and putting away books;
• providing customer service; and
• driving the bookmobile.

Training may last about a month.

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Computer Applications
• Driver Education (if you want to drive a bookmobile)
• Office Procedures

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Most employers require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Bookmobile drivers must have a driver's license and a good driving record.

Employers look for people who work well with others and pay attention to details.

Some employers may require workers to be bilingual and be able to speak and write English and Spanish.

#Job in White Salmon, Wa listed via WorkSource required being bilingual, 3/28/14 cj.

Tips

Experience or training in filing, and experience with computers and different audiovisual equipment and media are valuable assets. A willingness to perform some tasks beyond those outlined in the job description may be beneficial. Opportunities are best for applicants who can type at least 40 words per minute accurately and who are willing to relocate. Applicants who are able and willing to work part time may also fare better, since there is strong competition for full-time jobs. Public relations skills are very important. Experience as a library page or as a volunteer improves a worker's chances for employment as a higher-level assistant. Education is the best way to advance in this occupation.

Costs to workers

Library assistants and bookmobile drivers may be required to join a union and pay an initiation fee. Some workers may wish to join a professional association, which may have annual dues.

Licensing/certification

Bookmobile drivers may be required to have a commercial driver's license (CDL). Requirements for the CDL vary by state.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Library Assistants, Clerical 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

#Currently, there is no specific statewide wage information available for bookmobile drivers. In Washington, the average entry-level wage for clerical library assistants is $11.24 per hour ($1,948 per month).

The minimum wage for Washington State as of January 1, 2020 is $13.50 per hour. Some areas of the state may have a higher minimum wage.

#Updated ES wage info 07.16 sd

Wages vary by area of the country and employer. The assistant's level of experience and responsibility also affect wages.

Library assistants and bookmobile drivers who work full time usually receive benefits. Typical benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance. Some employers also provide a retirement plan.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Public libraries
• Elementary, middle, and high schools
• Colleges and universities

National outlook

Demand for this occupation is expected to decline due to the decreased use of libraries. As a result, the need for library assistants will be reduced. In addition, budget cuts may limit the number of assistants that can be hired.

Many openings will become available to replace workers who leave the field. Turnover is high because the pay can be low and full-time jobs are rare.

Other resources

American Library Association 
50 East Huron Street
Chicago, IL 60611
800.545.2433
312.944.6780

Me, a librarian? 

Washington Business Week 
PO Box 1170
Renton, WA 98057
253.237.3545

Washington Library Association 
PO Box 33808
Seattle, WA 98133
206.823.1138

Washington State Library 
PO Box 42460
Olympia, WA 98504-2460
360.704.5200

References

Career cluster

• Business Management and Administration

Career path

• Conventional (Business Operations)

O*Net  occupation

• Library Assistants, Clerical (43-4121.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed. Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed.

DOT occupations

• Bookmobile Driver (249.363-010) 
• Braille-and-talking Books Clerk (222.587-014) 
• Film-or-tape Librarian (222.367-026) 
• Library Assistant (249.367-046) 
• Library Clerk, Talking Books (209.387-026) 
• Page (249.687-014) 
• Registration Clerk (249.365-010) 

Holland occupational cluster

• Conventional/Realistic/Social

COPSystem

• Service Skilled