sparkysmum Posted September 28, 2014 Share Posted September 28, 2014 Hi, I retrained as a nursery nurse/ECE/ classroom assistant when I needed to work hours that fitted in with the school day. However I'm not totally married to the job (not at all in fact) and would love to pursue something else which I would be happy to do until I retire. So I have been thinking about library assistant type jobs which come up from time to time around here. I would like to do some qualifications which might get me an interview but have no clue where to start. So my dear friends, is anyone out there a librarian/assistant librarian ? If there is please could you point me in the right direction? Would love to hear from you. Thanks in advance. Axx Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ain't Nobody Here Posted September 29, 2014 Share Posted September 29, 2014 You may not have to have a specific qualification at all - two of my close friends are librarians at Napier Uni and neither of them had any. One was a nurse (many moons ago) and the other hadn't worked since her kids were born. I'm sure you'll be snapped up . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavclojak Posted September 29, 2014 Share Posted September 29, 2014 where's jenthelibrarian when you need her....hopefully she really is a librarian and will be able to help you out.. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Daphne Posted September 29, 2014 Share Posted September 29, 2014 I don't think you need any special quals above 5 'O' levels to be a library assistant - a friend of mine did it (fully qualified nursing Sister) whilst bringing up her child as it suited her needs at the time. However, to be an assistant librarian or higher than I think you need a degree, you certainly do now to be a librarian. I know from my friend that you need a) stamina (being on your feet all day) b) boundless patience c) friendly and approachable nature d) deep interest in books/other media and a wide range of subjects and ideally your local area if its a public library e) willingness to help f) an eye for detail Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
soapdragon Posted September 29, 2014 Share Posted September 29, 2014 And the ability to say 'SSsssshhhhhhh' really loudly! Chap went to the library, walked up to the librarian and said - very loudly - ' a pint of beer and a packet of crisps please'. The librarian looked stunned and said 'sorry this is a library'. The chap looked embarrassed then said - whispering - sorry, pint of beer and a packet of crisps please'. Sorry about that but its my all time fave joke and I simply couldn't resist! Would have worked better if I knew how to make the font smaller On a more serious note, have you thought of going into your local library and having a chat with whoever is on duty? Librarians are unfailingly helpful and I am sure would be happy to give you a clearer idea of what is required! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sparkysmum Posted September 30, 2014 Author Share Posted September 30, 2014 Love the joke, soapdragon. Thanks folks. Think I might try to improve my ICT skills and go for it. Very encouraging thank you! Ax Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Snowy Posted October 1, 2014 Share Posted October 1, 2014 I asked about this the other day as I had a meeting with the head of libraries at the local council. She said the actual librarian posts are becoming fewer and fewer as libraries are closing. Those that are staying open tend to be in the city centres and are being merged with town hall services such as meet and greet and receptionists. The roles are much more varied now with, as Daphne said, more being on your feet, helping members of the public with enquiries, very little sitting behind reception desks. All the book letting is computerised as well. It sounds like a great job still, but it has changed a lot recently. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
