They assist librarians, and in some cases, library technicians. They record the borrower's name and address from an application and then issue a library card.
Most library assistants enter and update patrons' records using computer databases.
At the circulation desk, assistants lend and collect books, periodicals, video tapes, and other materials. When an item is borrowed, assistants stamp the due date on the material and record the patron's identification from his or her library card. They inspect returned materials for damage, check due dates, and compute fines for overdue material. They review records to compile a list of overdue materials and send out notices. They also answer patrons' questions and refer those they cannot answer to a librarian.