What does a technical services librarian do?

What is a Technical Services Librarian?

A technical services librarian is responsible for managing and organizing the behind-the-scenes processes that ensure a library's collections are cataloged, classified, and accessible to users. This role primarily involves work in the technical services department of a library, where librarians focus on tasks related to acquisitions, cataloging, and metadata management. Technical services librarians ensure that books, electronic resources, and other materials are accurately cataloged, properly labeled, and efficiently integrated into the library's system.

What does a Technical Services Librarian do?

Technical Services Librarian
The duties and responsibilities of a technical services librarian are centered around the management and organization of library collections, ensuring that materials are properly cataloged, classified, and accessible to library users. Here are key aspects of the role:

• Cataloging and Classification: Create and maintain catalog records for library materials in accordance with established standards (such as MARC) using cataloging tools and software. Apply subject headings and classification codes to accurately categorize materials, enhancing the discoverability of resources.
• Acquisitions and Collection Development: Collaborate with vendors and publishers to acquire new library materials, including books, electronic resources, and multimedia items. Work within allocated budgets to ensure cost-effective acquisitions and contribute to collection development decisions.
• Metadata Management: Develop and manage metadata for digital collections, ensuring accurate and comprehensive descriptions of digital resources. Adhere to metadata standards to enhance interoperability and facilitate resource discovery.
• Database Maintenance: Regularly update and maintain catalog records to reflect changes in the library's collection, including new acquisitions, withdrawals, and changes in item status. Manage authority records to ensure consistency in names, subjects, and terms used in the catalog.
• Collaboration with Library Staff: Work closely with other library departments, including reference services and circulation, to address user needs and resolve catalog-related inquiries. Provide training and support to library staff on cataloging procedures and standards.
• Stay Informed About Trends and Standards: Stay current with developments in cataloging standards, metadata schemas, and emerging technologies relevant to technical services. Implement best practices in cataloging and technical services to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of library operations.
• Troubleshooting and Problem Resolution: Identify and resolve cataloging errors, discrepancies, and inconsistencies to maintain the accuracy and integrity of the catalog. Assist library users in locating and accessing materials, addressing catalog-related inquiries and issues.
• Technology Integration: Utilize and maintain library management systems, integrated library systems, and other relevant technologies to support technical services functions. Implement automation tools and workflows to streamline cataloging processes and improve overall efficiency.
• Policy Development: Contribute to the development and documentation of cataloging policies and procedures, ensuring consistency and adherence to industry standards. Propose and implement workflow improvements to enhance the technical services operation.

Types of Technical Services Librarians
Within the realm of technical services in libraries, various specialized roles exist to meet the diverse needs of managing and organizing library collections. Here are some types of technical services librarians:

• Cataloging Librarian: Specializes in creating and maintaining catalog records for library materials, applying standardized metadata and classification systems for effective resource discovery.
• Metadata Librarian: Specializes in managing metadata for digital collections, ensuring accurate and comprehensive descriptions of digital resources to enhance accessibility and discoverability.
• Electronic Resources Librarian: Manages electronic resources, including databases, e-books, and online journals, overseeing their acquisition, licensing, and accessibility within the library's systems.
• Collection Development Librarian: Collaborates with other departments to make decisions on the development and maintenance of the library's collection, ensuring alignment with user needs and institutional goals.
• Database Management Librarian: Manages and optimizes the library's database systems, ensuring the integrity of catalog records, metadata, and other information within the library's technology infrastructure.
• Workflow Optimization Librarian: Focuses on improving and streamlining technical services workflows, identifying opportunities for automation and efficiency enhancements in cataloging and acquisitions processes.

What is the workplace of a Technical Services Librarian like?

A technical services librarian typically works in a library setting, whether it be in a public library, academic institution, or specialized library. The workplace environment is generally characterized by a combination of office and public-facing spaces. Librarians in technical services often work behind the scenes, focusing on the organization, acquisition, and management of library materials, including books, electronic resources, and other media.

The daily activities of a technical services librarian involve tasks related to cataloging, classification, and ensuring that library materials are easily accessible to patrons. This may include creating and updating records in library systems, managing databases, and implementing standardized cataloging practices. The work is detail-oriented, requiring a high level of accuracy and a strong understanding of library classification systems such as Dewey Decimal or Library of Congress.

Collaboration is a key aspect of the workplace for technical services librarians. They frequently work with other library staff, including reference librarians, circulation staff, and administrators, to ensure the seamless functioning of library services. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for maintaining a well-organized and efficiently run library system.

The environment may also involve interaction with technology and software used for library management. Technical services librarians need to stay abreast of advancements in library technology and information management systems to enhance the efficiency of their work. Additionally, they may be involved in training and assisting other library staff in using these technologies.

While technical services librarians may spend a significant portion of their time in offices or workrooms, they may also engage with the public during outreach events, workshops, or when providing assistance at the circulation desk. Adaptability and a customer service mindset are valuable qualities, as librarians may need to address patrons' inquiries or assist with research needs.