Individuals who enjoy working with books, computers, and interacting with the public should consider a career as a systems librarian. A career in this field could lead to positions in university libraries, public libraries, and government agencies, among other places. Though the job duties of a systems librarian vary depending on the employer, there are four main responsibilities. These responsibilities include updating library databases on a regular basis, assisting library patrons, training other library staff, and troubleshooting electronic equipment.
A systems librarian’s main responsibilities include updating a library’s database on a regular basis. For example, this person is frequently in charge of entering and classifying newly acquired books into the electronic database. She might also be in charge of keeping the library’s website up to date with relevant information. She will also install new software upgrades to keep the library’s technology up to date. As a result, this job necessitates a high level of computer proficiency.
Assisting library patrons and answering any questions that may arise is another important aspect of the job. The systems librarian, for example, might be able to assist patrons in locating specific books that they are having trouble locating. If a book isn’t available in that library, she will assist the patron in finding it elsewhere.
She could also assist patrons in learning the fundamentals of using the electronic library catalog and the shelving system. A systems librarian is also in charge of dealing with complaints and resolving conflicts. As a result, this position necessitates a certain level of customer service expertise.
Another important responsibility is to train other library staff. Any new software or changes to the library’s database will necessitate a transfer of information to other employees by the systems librarian. It is her responsibility to ensure that everyone is properly trained on all programs in order for the operation to run smoothly. As a result, she will be required to attend workshops on a regular basis to learn about new programs. She will then be in charge of holding her own workshops in which she will instruct library staff.
In addition, she will be required to troubleshoot electronic equipment on occasion. Because computers, databases, and websites occasionally experience glitches or abnormalities, a systems librarian’s job is to find solutions. This means she may be required to deal with computer crashes, viruses, and system backups. As a result, she assists in maintaining order and allowing the library to operate at a high level.