Explore a possible path

Library Assistants, Clerical

Compile records, and sort, shelve, issue, and receive library materials such as books, electronic media, pictures, cards, slides and microfilm. Locate library materials for loan and replace material in shelving area, stacks, or files according to identification number and title. Register patrons to permit them to borrow books, periodicals, and other library materials.

How does this connect to your interests? →

A look at the work

  • Sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
  • Open and close library during specified hours and secure library equipment, such as computers and audio-visual equipment.
  • Locate library materials for patrons, including books, periodicals, tape cassettes, Braille volumes, and pictures.
  • Enter and update patrons' records on computers.
  • Answer routine inquiries and refer patrons in need of professional assistance to librarians.
  • Manage reserve materials by placing items on reserve for library patrons, checking items in and out of library, and removing out-of-date items.
  • Lend, reserve, and collect books, periodicals, videotapes, and other materials at circulation desks and process materials for inter-library loans.
  • Instruct patrons on how to use reference sources, card catalogs, and automated information systems.

A selection of source-listed tasks; duties vary by role and employer.

Interests involved in this work

These source scores describe occupational work activities. They are separate from your personal test results.

Hands-on

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

2.9 / 7

Investigative

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

2.0 / 7

Creative

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

1.3 / 7

Helping people

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

3.8 / 7

Enterprising

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

2.2 / 7

Organizing

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

6.9 / 7

Skills to explore

Source-reported importance on a 1–5 scale. Try a course, project or conversation to learn what these skills involve.

Service Orientation

Actively looking for ways to help people.

2018-08

3.4 / 5

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

2018-08

3.3 / 5

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

2018-08

3.3 / 5

Writing

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

2018-08

3.0 / 5

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

2018-08

3.0 / 5

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

2018-08

3.0 / 5

Coordination

Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

2018-08

3.0 / 5

Time Management

Managing one's own time and the time of others.

2018-08

2.9 / 5

Monitoring

Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

2018-08

2.9 / 5

Social Perceptiveness

Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

2018-08

2.9 / 5

Plan a small next step

Talk to someone doing this work, look for a supervised activity, and explore the subjects that interest you. Admission, licensing and current program requirements should be confirmed with the relevant institutions.

Source preparation category: Job Zone 2 of 5 · 2026-02. This category describes typical preparation, not your eligibility.

Source & methodology

O*NET-SOC code 43-4121.00 · Database 31.0 · Retrieved Oct 14, 2026. Dates on individual observations describe their source periods.

How interest exploration matching works →

Data: O*NET® 31.0 Database, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Used under CC BY 4.0. StudyIndex normalizes the presentation and adds exploration features; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these additions.