Library technicians and assistants typically do the following:

• Loan library materials to patrons and collect returned materials
• Sort and reshelve returned books, periodicals, and other materials
• Organize and maintain library materials
• Handle interlibrary loans
• Register new patrons and issue library cards
• Answer patrons’ questions and help them find library resources
• Maintain computer databases used to locate library materials
• Help plan and participate in special programs, such as used-book sales and outreach programs.

Library technicians and assistants are usually supervised by a librarian. Library technicians may have more responsibilities than library assistants, such as administering library programs and overseeing lower-level staff.