Library assistants perform routine tasks to free librarians from other duties.
Assistants check books in and out, answer routine questions and sort and shelve library materials. They may repair damaged books and keep files of special materials such as career information or newspapers up-to-date. In addition, they aid in the purchasing and cataloguing of library materials.
They operate audio-visual equipment when required and help users find reference materials, maintain loan records and send out overdue notices. In addition, they may work on special projects and assist in organising and arranging book exhibitions.
Library assistants work indoors in all types of libraries. They may work at the front desk, between bookshelves or in special rooks or offices such as repair or audiovisual storage areas and travelling library vehicles.