Library Technicians
O*NET 25-4031.00 · SOC 25-4031
Library Technician is a risky career choice. Median pay is $45k a year with -6.4% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 10,800 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Check out and return library materials at the circulation desk.
- →Shelve returned books and periodicals in correct order.
- →Process new library materials by applying labels and barcodes.
- →Answer patron questions about library services and policies.
- →Maintain and update patron account records in library systems.
Education & How to Get In
Most Library Technician positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Library Technician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Library Technician?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Library Technician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Library Technicians is projected to decline 6.4% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·51% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·33% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Library Technician make?
The median Library Technician earns $45k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Library Technician jobs?
Our model puts Library Technician at 60 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 51% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 33% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace.
Is Library Technician a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 6.4% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 10,800 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Library Technician?
Most Library Technician roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Library Technician?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Library Technician career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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