Library Technician Program

Libraries are an essential resource in our communities; connecting people with ideas and information, strengthening skills and relationships, and fostering freedom for all to read and pursue lifelong learning.

Working in libraries is an opportunity to do work that is interesting, fulfilling and valuable to the community.

Students in our program gain the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to obtain and excel in technician level positions in all types of libraries.

Did you know Most library technicians need a postsecondary certificate or an associate’s degree. Library assistants typically need a high school degree and usually learn through short-term on-the-job training.

Employment of library technicians and assistants is projected to grow 9 percent from 2016 to 2026 about as fast as the average for all occupations. Libraries will hire these workers to take over some of the duties of librarians, whose hourly wages are usually higher.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics.

ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

This program is offered both at the Auburn Hills campus as well as partially online.

Prospective students must meet standard OCC eligibility requirements – there is an open admissions policy and placement tests and new student orientation are required in most cases. Students should meet with a counselor before attempting this plan of study.

CAREER INFORMATION

The median salary for library technicians was $33,690 annually, or $16.20 per hour in 2017, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For more information about Library Technicians including job outlook, work environment, and job duties, visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook of the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What Library Technicians Do

Library Technicians perform a wide variety of jobs in the library setting. Some duties could include:

Helping patrons engage with library resources and services
Providing assistance with library technology
Obtaining materials through inter-library loan and document delivery
Assisting librarians with acquiring new materials and maintaining the library catalog
Maintaining shelves and displays
Repairing books and other materials

CREDENTIALS AVAILABLE

Oakland Community College offers a Certificate of Achievement and an Associate's Degree program in Library Services and Technology.

Each program offers a comprehensive curriculum to help prepare you to work in a library setting. Visit our course descriptions to see what is offered.