Librarian Supervisory Duties
Librarian supervisory duties vary depending on the size of the library. The library supervisor spends much of her time developing library policies along with library administrators, but also spends considerable time working with the staff overseeing day-to-day operations. Library supervisors often have bachelor’s degrees as well as master’s degrees in library science. School librarians must also have valid teaching certificates.
Whether it’s children in a school library or patrons in a public or university setting, a library supervisor must be knowledgeable about her clients' needs. Libraries offer information in many formats, and the supervisor must be able to anticipate the needs of library patrons so the necessary information is available in a timely manner. This includes providing data in traditional book format, but also maintaining technology, such as computers with Internet connections, for patrons to use. Travel to professional conferences and special courses can help the supervisory librarian meet the needs of her public.
Patrons' needs are a prime factor that helps the supervisory librarian prepare an annual budget to present to library administrators. The public’s needs and requests help the librarian select the books, periodicals and other media to add to the collection. The librarian must keep track of spending to not go over budget. The library supervisor may also be in charge of fundraising efforts to supplement the budget. This is where good rapport with the public can work to benefit the library.
The library supervisor is in charge of the library’s staff. Depending on the size of the library, she may direct numerous departments, such as reference, acquisitions and cataloging, or she may train staffers to perform multiple jobs. The library supervisor may guide the staff in developing and delivering special library services to the public, such as a summer reading program for children.
Supervising librarians often have the title of media specialist. They must know how to deliver information electronically to patrons. In some instances, the media specialist teaches patrons and staffers how to make the most of technology. Many libraries have their entire catalog online. The supervisor is responsible for keeping the catalog up to date and for making sure patrons have easy access to it.
2016 Salary Information for Librarians
Librarians earned a median annual salary of $57,680 in 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. On the low end, librarians earned a 25th percentile salary of $45,060, meaning 75 percent earned more than this amount. The 75th percentile salary is $72,780, meaning 25 percent earn more. In 2016, 138,200 people were employed in the U.S. as librarians.
Denise Brown is an education professional who wanted to try something different. Two years and more than 500 articles later, she's enjoying her freelance writing experience for online resources such as Work.com and other online information sites. Brown holds a master's degree in history education from Truman State University.