People who work in a library range from student volunteers shelving books to professional librarians with various master’s degrees who care for a specialized collection.
SO, can a teenager work at a library?
Can a Teenager Work at a Library?
Yes, a teenagers can work at a library but since the teen would most likely be an entry-level job seeker, his best bet is to volunteer or apply for library assistant positions at small libraries.
This is because more the competition for these positions is often high, so read on to gather more infromation about these jobs and how to increase your chances of success.
1. Understanding Librarian Positions at the Entry Level
Ask about volunteer jobs at your local public library
Employees at the reference desk will be able to give you vital and detailed information about volunteer work or will send you to someone who can give you information.
Consider being a librarian
Library assistants typically receive a salary; however, they may be temporary or part-time employees. The job is similar to what a volunteer would do, typically shelving books.
This option may be your best bet for a paid library job if you’re not a college student or don’t have a college degree.
Inquire about other jobs in the library
It is paramount to note that not all library jobs involve being a librarian or require a degree in library science. Almost all libraries need a janitor and the largest ones also need security guards.
Look for opportunities at your university or college
If you are a college or high school student, visit your school library. They could hire students as library assistants.
These positions can often be scheduled during the student’s class schedule and may or may not be tied to a student financial aid package.
Compare the job requirements to be a librarian assistant
A library associate position is an entry-level job that manages the day-to-day work in a library. Requirements between libraries vary quite a bit. Small libraries are more likely to have fewer requirements and may even train high school students. Most often you will need a high school diploma and sometimes college-level studies in library science.
2. Get a job
Check library bulletin boards or website
Lots of libraries have a bulletin board where they display notices of special events and, from time to time, job openings. Check them from time to time so you can apply for the jobs you qualify for or so you know the requirements you can work on. The library may also post job openings on its website or on local government websites.
Visit the library before applying
Visit the library in person when you see a job opening that matches your level of experience. score the service you receive and the experience of visiting the library. Ask the staff there. Check out program schedules, available technology, and other library resources.
All of these things will give you material to talk about in your interview. In this way, you can show that you have done your homework and also offer suggestions of things that you could contribute to.
Submit your resume
In many public library jobs, especially in big cities, there is a computer scanning resumes instead of a person. These resumes must include keywords from the job description or the applicant will not be considered for an interview.
Research local policies
research as much as you can as regards policies that might affect the library before you are interviewed. Is funding in jeopardy or have hours or services been reduced? Consider a role as an advocate or library supporter. Look at the “friends of the library” group that might be playing this role.
Relate
Get acquainted not only with the librarians, but also with the committee members who are in charge of hiring if you can.
If, after you apply, the library invites you to meet the committee, friends of the library, or another citizen group, treat it as an extension of the interview. Be professional and committed.
Jobs that teenagers can do at a library
- Library Shelver
- $13.79 – $21.40 an hour
- Library Associate
- $17.98 an hour
- Library Associate II
- $17.98 an hour
- Library Page
- $12.80 an hour
- Library Clerk
- $13.16 – $19.09 an hour
- Library Aide
- $8.64 an hour
- Mobile Services Associate
- $17.98 an hour
- Digital Content Specialist
- $44,810 a year