Help people find the information they need

As a library staff, you connect people with knowledge whether it’s in books, journals, archives or online. You organise information, manage collections and help users access resources. Today’s libraries use advanced technology, and information professionals play a key role in keeping systems running and users supported.

For further information:
Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA)
(02) 6215 8222
enquiry@alia.org.au
www.alia.org.au

TAFE SA offers courses relevant to this occupation including the Diploma of Library and Information Services and the Certificate IV in Library and Information Services.

Libraries continue to hold collections of books, journals and other printed items, but also now make use of cutting edge technology in order to efficiently meet clients' information needs. Keeping up to date with technological changes is therefore critical for information professionals, some of whom are now providing consultancy services. They use their specialised skills to access information for clients who know its somewhere on the web, but don't have the time or skills to find it.

External Links

The Australian Library and Information Association

http://www.alia.org.au/education/courses/listing.html?ID=37

Librarians, library technicians and library assistants work in many different industries. Many work in public libraries run by local governments or in the State Library. Information professionals also undertake information management work in educational institutions, government departments, hospitals, law firms and a broad range of private sector industries. Information professionals may be required to work evenings, weekends and on public holidays.

Qualified library staff work in public libraries, archives, schools, technical colleges and tertiary institutions. They also work for government departments, museums, research and consulting organisations, teaching hospitals, industrial and business firms, all of which have libraries specialising in particular fields.

Library assistants and library technicians must have a good aptitude for working with computers. They need to have good organisational skills and a wide general knowledge. They also must have good communication skills and a strong customer service attitude.

Factors which affect the demand for librarians, library technicians and library assistants include government funding levels, the introduction of technologies and the level of activity in private sector industries (for example law firms) that employ librarians.