Nature of the Work Library assistants and bookmobile drivers keep library resources in order and make them readily available to a variety of users. They work under the direction of 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 the due dates, and compute any fines that may be owed. They review records to compile a list of overdue materials and send out notices. They also answer patrons' questions in person and on the telephone and refer those they cannot answer to a librarian.