Librarians organise information in libraries and keep it available for access. The information may be kept in books, newspapers, microfiche, videos, DVDs, audio CDs or cassettes. Increasingly, information is stored on computer files, CD ROMs or DVDs.
A librarian is responsible for:
- updating the collection by choosing new materials and clearing out the old
- deciding which resources to obtain by researching up-to-date publications on the internet and through liaising with publishers and library users
- advising users face to face, over the telephone, or by email, about available resources and materials
- classifying and indexing resource materials on digital catalogues
- organising outreach work, such as school visits, creative writing workshops or readings by authors
- managing the library, training staff and keeping accounts within the budget.
Many libraries are open during the evenings and weekends, so hours of work vary. Part-time work is often available. Most librarians are based in one library, but a few jobs involve travelling between locations or attending book fairs. Libraries are usually quiet, airy and well lit.
Salaries start at between €30,000 and €35,000 a year and can reach €63,000 or more for librarians with management responsibilities.
A librarian needs to have:
- good information and communication technology (ICT) skills
- good general knowledge, or knowledge within a specialised field
- organisational and managerial skills
- communication skills and confidence
- the ability to skim-read large amounts of text
- an interest in research.
Employers include general libraries (such as public libraries, school or college libraries) and specialist libraries (such as libraries in hospitals and legal institutions).
Most librarians have a degree or postgraduate qualification accredited by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP). For those with unrelated degrees, CILIP runs a Graduate Training Opportunities scheme.
A pre-entry postgraduate qualification at Diploma or Masters level accredited by the Library Association of Ireland (LAI) is essential for those who do not hold a professional qualification at undergraduate level.
Distance education programmes are also available from a number of UK universities.
Many librarians continue to study and work towards postgraduate qualifications in their specialist area and they may work towards Chartered Membership of CILIP.
Promotion can be to a specialist post or management position. There may be opportunities to diversify into an information management role. Work abroad is also possible.