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Unit 3: Reference Librarian

Skill in communicating and establishing effective working relationships with other Notes
employees, organizations and the public.

Skill in researching library information
Physical Demands:
Sitting: Remaining in the normal seated position.
Carrying: Transporting an object, usually by hand, arm or shoulder.

Pushing: Exerting force upon an object so that the object is away.
Pulling: Exerting force on an object so that it is moving to the person.
Balancing: Maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling over.
Stooping: Bending the body by bending spine at the waist.

Reaching: Extending the hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction.
Handling: Seizing, holding, grasping or otherwise working with hand(s).
Fingering: Picking, pinching, or otherwise working with fingers.
Talking: Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words.

Hearing: Perceiving the nature of sounds by the ear.
Eye/hand/foot Coordination: Performing work through using two or more.
Working Environment:
Exposed to infections and contagious diseases.

Subject to varying and unpredictable situations.
Subject to many interruptions.
Pressure due to multiple calls and inquiries
Education Requirement: Master’s Degree in Library Science from an American Library Association
accredited program.

!
Caution According to the BLS, an aspiring research librarian should have a master’s degree
in library science, which can take two years to complete.
An undergraduate degree is typically required to enrol in a Master of Science in Library Science
(MSLS) or a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program. In these programs,
students learn how to evaluate resources and determine their appropriateness for a given audience,
to organize materials in a library and to determine how patrons may use information. Some
schools offer programs that lead to certification as an education professional or to a dual degree
that allows students to earn a master’s degree in library science and a law degree simultaneously.

Reference librarians often educate others about research methods, proper citation and the use of
reference sources. Academic or school librarians may teach stand-alone courses or workshops in
research methods or present on these subjects in other teacher’s classrooms. Public librarians
may likewise offer presentations and lectures on library reference materials and Internet
resources to library patrons and the community at large.
Experience Requirement: One year of experience solving problems and providing customer
service to business or public clients.

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