Author: Heather Hibbard

Categories
Job Seekers

Opening the Door to Library Work: Transferable Skills and Experience

A common question asked by job seekers is: If I haven’t had the job before, how am I supposed to have the required experience? Many people interested in library work assume that they need previous library experience to apply to a library position. Although it’s true that some library jobs do require prior library experience, entry-level positions are often looking for skills you may already have or could develop through other relevant work.

Bookstores

A role in a bookstore can be a great stepping stone if you’re interested in library work. Bookstore experience often involves many of the same skills used in libraries, including:

  • Reader’s advisory and book recommendations
  • Shelving and organizing materials
  • Interpersonal and communication skills
  • Assisting people with transactions and locating items

Although the systems are different, working at the register of a bookstore shares similarities with operating a circulation desk in a library. Those are valuable experiences to highlight when applying for library positions.

Research

Experience gathering information and navigating resources can translate well to libraries, where staff often help patrons locate materials, use databases, and access information.

Research skills can be developed through experiences such as:

  • Academic work
  • Teaching
  • Archives and museum work
  • Journalism
  • Genealogy projects

Event Planning or Outreach

Libraries regularly create displays and offer events, workshops, and activities for their communities. Experience planning events, leading activities, or connecting people with community resources can be a great way to build skills for this type of library work.

Think of opportunities you’ve had that may have involved:

  • Camps and youth programs
  • Arts or community events
  • Volunteer coordination
  • Nonprofit work
  • Social media or marketing

The creativity and adaptability developed through these kinds of experiences can be especially valuable when working in a library.

Customer Service

Many library positions involve working closely with patrons every day. Whether it’s answering questions, explaining policies, solving problems, or assisting people with materials and services, customer service skills are constantly used in library environments.

These skills may include:

  • Patience and professionalism
  • Conflict resolution and de-escalation
  • Working with diverse communities and needs
  • Adapting communication styles

Experience in retail, food service, front desk work, education, tutoring, and other public-facing roles can help you develop the people skills to thrive in a library position.

Technology Support

Technology has become an important part of modern library services. In a library, you may find yourself assisting patrons with computers, printers, e-readers, email, digital resources, and other technology-related questions.

Experience working on a help desk, in a computer lab, or other technical customer service can develop your troubleshooting and problem-solving skills which will transfer well to library environments.

Taking the Next Step

The next time you sit down to edit your resume or apply to a library position, take a closer look at the experience you already have and how it connects to library work. Don’t sell yourself short. Make sure those strengths are reflected in your application. There is no single path into libraries, and you may be surprised to find that you already have the skills and experience to help open the door.

Categories
Job Seekers Library Life

Why Self-Care Matters During your Job Search

 

Searching for a job can be exciting, but it can also be emotionally exhausting. Between applications, interviews, networking, and waiting for responses, many job seekers experience stress, burnout, self-doubt, and anxiety along the way. 

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness month, BiblioTemps® has assembled some self-care resources for job seekers. In addition to this blog post, we have added a collection of resources on the new Self-Care page of our Library Careers LibGuide, featuring videos, podcasts, books, and articles exploring everyday ways to care for yourself. On our LibGuide you will also find the Self-Care Workbook for Job Seekers. Our workbook is meant to be a helpful tool to support your mental, emotional, and personal well-being throughout your job search. This workbook encourages reflection, balance, gratitude, and intentional self-care while navigating the challenges of the job search.  

Job Searching Is More Than Sending Applications 

When people think about job searching, they often focus on resumes, cover letters, and interviews. But what’s often overlooked is the emotional side of the process. 

Rejections can feel personal. Waiting can feel discouraging. Comparing yourself to others online can affect confidence and motivation. 

  • Self-Care Strategies for Job Seekers

    • Create a routine and set a limit for the time you spend on your job search. 
    • Focus on healthy habits like exercise, eating well, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule. 
    • Connect with friends and family to avoid feeling isolated. 

The Self-Care Workbook 

The Self-Care Workbook was made with the purpose of reminding job seekers that taking care of themselves is just as important as preparing for the next job opportunity. The workbook includes a variety of guided pages and exercises meant to keep job seekers grounded and organized during their search. 

  • Daily Planning and Priorities

We included daily planning pages where users can outline priorities, organize schedules, and create manageable to-do lists.  

Instead of feeling overwhelmed by everything at once, job seekers can focus on small, achievable goals each day — whether that’s applying for two positions, updating a resume, or practicing interview questions. 

  • Daily Check-Ins 

One of the most meaningful sections is the daily check-in page, which encourages users to pause and reflect on how they’re feeling emotionally and physically.  

Prompts include: 

  • “What am I thankful for right now?”  
  • “What’s something I’m looking forward to today?”  
  • “Did I move my body today?”  
  • “Did I connect with someone today?”  

These questions help job seekers build awareness around their emotional well-being while maintaining healthy routines during stressful periods. 

  • Practicing Gratitude and Positive Thinking

The workbook also includes gratitude journaling pages that encourage users to focus on positive moments, affirmations, and personal growth.  

During a difficult job search, it’s easy to focus only on what hasn’t happened yet. Gratitude exercises can help shift attention toward progress, resilience, and small wins along the way.  

Simple reflections like: 

  • “Something I’m proud of”  
  • “My favorite moment today”  
  • “Tomorrow, I look forward to…”  
  • Reflections make a meaningful difference in maintaining motivation and confidence. 

  • Building Healthy Self-Care Habits

The workbook includes a self-care checklist focused on daily wellness habits and emotional balance.  

The checklist encourages activities such as: 

  • Drinking enough water  
  • Getting quality sleep  
  • Taking breaks from screens and social media  
  • Journaling thoughts and feelings  
  • Spending time in nature  
  • Connecting with loved ones  

These small habits can help reduce burnout and create stability during uncertain times. 

  • Finding Balance During Career Transitions

One unique feature of the workbook is the Holistic Balance Exercise, which asks users to reflect on four important areas of life: mind, body, heart, and spirit.  

This exercise encourages job seekers to think about: 

  • What is currently supporting their well-being  
  • What areas may need more attention  
  • What they want more or less of in their lives  
  • What changes may help them feel more balanced  

Career transitions often impact every area of life, and this exercise provides space for thoughtful self-reflection and personal growth. 

Self-Care Is an Essential Part of your Job Search 

Taking care of yourself during a job search is not a distraction from your goals — it’s part of the process. 

The Self-Care LibGuide and Workbook were created to help job seekers stay motivated, organized, reflective, and emotionally supported throughout their journey. Whether someone is searching for their first role, changing careers, or re-entering the workforce, these resources serve as a reminder that their well-being matters too because finding a job is important — but taking care of yourself along the way is essential. 

Categories
Employers

The Care Gap

Closing the Organizational Care Gap

Recently, I attended a webinar called “The Organizational Care Gap: New Research, Strategies, and Why It’s Time to Act” hosted by SHRM (the Society for Human Resource Management). So much of what was shared echoed the feedback we received from Library Workers and students during our Pathways to Inclusion Project about burnout, belonging, and what it truly means to feel valued at work.

One simple takeaway stood out: when employees feel cared for, they do better work — and they stay longer. It’s easy to say we care, but it is much harder to show it consistently. The session reminded me that organizational care isn’t about grand gestures — it’s about everyday actions, open communication, and leaders who listen and follow through.

Here are some reflections and takeaways I found especially meaningful.

 

Burnout Is an Organizational Problem — Not an Individual One

We often talk about burnout as if it’s something individuals need to fix, but the reality is that burnout is a sign of organizational strain. Chronic stress builds up when people don’t feel heard, valued, or supported.

Addressing burnout starts with systems — not self-help. The presenters summed it up beautifully: “Trust, belonging, knowing they matter.” Those are the ingredients for a healthy organization.

 

Communication and Psychological Safety: Listening First

Clear, consistent communication is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to show care. Employees thrive when they know their voices matter and when they understand how decisions are made.

Library leaders can build that trust by using a mix of approaches:

  • Surveys and other anonymous feedback tools to hear directly from all levels of the library staff.
  • Open office hours and informal check-ins to stay connected.
  • Regular staff meetings and written updates to keep everyone informed.

But the real key is follow-through. Don’t just collect feedback — act on it. Sharing results, making visible changes, and recognizing contributions go a long way toward building trust and belonging among your library staff.

 

Building Psychological Safety

Psychological safety allows people to speak up, take risks, and admit mistakes without fear. It’s what makes innovation and honest feedback possible.

Library leadership can strengthen psychological safety with workers by:

  • Modeling vulnerability, admitting mistakes, and discussing what you learned from it.
  • When a staff member asks challenging questions, approach them with curiosity and be open to discussion.
  • Encourage open communication.
  • Provide constructive feedback focused on growth, not criticism.
  • Clearly define expectations and ensure you follow through on commitments.

When people feel safe, they engage more fully — not just with their work but with each other.

 

Belonging: Where Caring Becomes Visible

You will foster a community of belonging when workers feel included, valued, and part of something bigger than themselves.

To foster belonging, you can:

  • Lead with psychological safety.
  • Encourage peer-to-peer connections and cross-group collaborations.
  • Support informal networks that help people see each other as more than just job titles.

When everyone belongs, everyone contributes — and the whole organization feels stronger.

 

Empowering Managers to Care

Managers set the tone for the worker’s experience. They’re often the first line of support, and their approach can make all the difference.

If you’re in a leadership position, ensure managers have access to the right tools:

  • Share learning and development opportunities with staff.
  • Establish opportunities for staff recognition.
  •  Build resource toolkits for your managers.
  • Check-in regularly with managers and model healthy behaviors.

When managers show genuine care, employees notice — and they mirror that care back into the library and your community.

 

From Words to Action

One of the most important takeaways for me was simple: take some form of action.

Organizational care grows through steady, intentional steps like these:

  • Collect and use data to understand workforce needs.
  • Take inventory of what resources and programs already exist.
  • Connect the dots between what your library workers value and their daily experience in the library.

Inaction is noticed just as much as action — maybe even more. The follow-through is what turns care into culture.

 

Final Thought

The “care gap” isn’t about a lack of intention — it’s about a lack of follow-through. This is a good reminder that showing care is an everyday practice. It’s about listening, responding, and creating environments where people feel safe to be themselves.

Because when care is truly felt, everyone — employees, teams, and the whole organization — thrives.

 

Written by: Amanda, BiblioTemps Manager

Categories
Job Seekers

Exploring Library Careers: Tips, Tools, and Job Titles for Every Interest

In this post, we are sharing strategies to enhance your job search and spotlighting the value of specialized library organizations to broaden your career exploration.

5 Key Tips for Finding a Library Job

Finding a job in the library field takes a mix of planning, persistence, and the right strategy. Here’s how to make your search more effective:

  1. Target Your Job Search

Start with library-specific job boards:

  • ALA JobLIST
  • MBLC Job Board
  • Specialized job boards for medical, law, or academic libraries

Also check broader platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and government job sites for special or university library roles.

  1. Tailor Your Application Materials

Customize every resume and cover letter to:

  • Match the job description’s keywords
  • Highlight your most relevant skills (e.g., research, technology, public service)
  • Emphasize transferable skills if you’re transitioning from another field
  1. Network and Get Involved
  • Join national or regional professional associations
  • Attend webinars and virtual conferences
  • Connect with library professionals via library-related social media groups
  • Learn more about working in a Library by talking to professionals in the field and conducting informational interviews
  1. Gain Experience
  • Apply for part-time, temporary, or substitute library roles
  • Volunteer at a local library, archive, or nonprofit
  • Look for internships or practicums if you’re currently in school or making a career shift
  • If you can’t find a library role, try to gain transferable experience working in a bookstore

Why Join a Specialized Library Organization?

Library organizations do more than advocate for the profession—they offer targeted resources for your specific area of interest. Whether you’re passionate about legal information, medical research, or youth services, there’s an association to support your goals. These organizations often feature:

  • Job boards specific to their field
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Conferences and webinars for networking
  • Industry-specific insights and publications

A few to explore:

  • American Association of Law Libraries (AALL) – for legal information professionals
  • Medical Library Association (MLA) – for those in health sciences librarianship
  • Society of American Archivists (SAA) – for those interested in a career in archives
Categories
Job Seekers

The Perks of Temporary Work

If you have not considered temporary work as a valuable option, you may be surprised at all the perks it has to offer. Whether you’re in between roles, looking to make a transition, or seeking a job that fits into your schedule, temporary work could be the answer!

Here are some of the advantages our BiblioTemps® candidates experience through temporary positions:

  1. Flexibility

One of the biggest advantages of temporary work is the flexibility, especially for retirees or college students. You can choose a temporary role that works for your schedule and timeline. Many temporary positions are project based and could align perfectly with the short-term needs of your life. 

  1. Networking

According to Cornell University, 80% of jobs are filled through connections and not public job ads[i]. This statistic means that networking could play a significant role in your job search. A temporary position is a fantastic way to meet fellow library workers and expand your contact list. You could gain new professional references or even a future job lead.

  1. Gain Hands-on Experience

If you have been finding it difficult to get your foot in the door in the library field, a temporary position could be a very helpful stepping-stone.  Even though the position is short-term, it will allow you to continue building your skills, gain more hands-on experience, and make you a more competitive candidate for future opportunities.

  1. Test the Waters

If you’re new to the library field or are looking to make a transition, but are unsure of what direction to go, temporary work is a great option to try out different types of roles and see what you like. You can more easily pivot towards what feels right for you and make more informed decisions.

  1. Extra Income

If you’re looking to supplement a part-time job, saving for a goal, or finishing your degree, temporary work can help boost your income without having to commit to a long-term position.

  1. Expand Your Options

Through a temporary job, you may be exposed to a new environment or library service that you hadn’t previously considered. For example, you might have your heart set on public libraries, but you may find yourself in a temporary position in an academic library and discover that you love it. You may be surprised by the new insights and passions you can uncover through temporary work.

  1. Build Your Confidence

Through trying a variety of roles and developing new skill sets, temporary work can be an amazing opportunity to build your confidence in the library field. Consider reading an interview with one of our BiblioTemps library workers to hear how their temporary placements helped them grow as a library professional and discover their strengths.

We hope you’re feeling inspired to try out temporary work and we encourage you to review the open temporary positions on our job board. If we don’t currently have any open positions that interest you, apply to our Candidate Pool to be considered for future opportunities!

[i] Verywell Mind. 9 Tips to Network Like a Pro and Build Your Inner Circle.

Categories
Library Life

Discovering Strengths and Building Skills: One Library Professional’s Journey with BiblioTemps®

Our BiblioTemps® team proudly connects skilled library workers with meaningful temporary placements across Massachusetts. These roles not only fill important staffing needs, but also serve as launching pads for personal and professional growth.

In this interview, one of our library professionals shares their experience working in a BiblioTemps placement taking on varying responsibilities which included instruction and research support, as well as hands-on cataloging. Their story highlights the value of skill exploration, supportive environments, and the clarity that comes from trying something new.

Interviewer: Can you tell me about the different roles you were assigned to while working with BiblioTemps?
Interviewee: I was assigned a mix of roles, mainly focusing on research, instruction, and cataloging. On the research and instruction side, I followed up with professors and students who needed help, managed the help desk, and worked closely with professors on assignments and finding materials. I also tailored lessons on database research tools to fit specific class needs and assisted students in finding resources for their subjects. It was a great opportunity to sharpen my teaching skills, and it was really rewarding to see students and faculty implement what I taught them.

Interviewer: What about your work in cataloging? What did that involve?
Interviewee: In cataloging, I worked on a weeding project where we removed outdated medical books from the collection. I also helped weed the library’s VHS collection, which was a unique experience. I got a lot of hands-on experience working with the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) system, which was really valuable for me.

Interviewer: How did your experience with BiblioTemps contribute to your professional development?
Interviewee: It helped me a lot, especially in terms of teaching. I really honed my skills in that area. But I also discovered that I have a particular affinity for cataloging. I realized I enjoy it more than research and instruction, so it gave me clarity on where my strengths and preferences lie.

Interviewer: How would you describe the work environment and culture at the organizations where you were placed?
Interviewee: The work environment was very positive. I always felt comfortable asking questions, and the staff was really supportive. It was a great place to work, and I was able to network quite a bit. In fact, some staff members even suggested job openings at other libraries and within the organization, which was really helpful.

Interviewer: Would you recommend BiblioTemps to other job seekers?
Interviewee: Absolutely. BiblioTemps offers great opportunities for skill development and networking. They provide a very supportive work environment, and I found their approach to be really helpful for anyone looking to grow in the library field.

Conclusion: Finding Your Fit with BiblioTemps®

This interview reminds us how temporary roles can offer much more than short-term work—they can clarify career goals, build confidence, and open doors. Whether you’re seeking new experiences, refining your strengths, or expanding your network, BiblioTemps® is here to help you grow.

Categories
Employers

What Skills Can a Librarian Bring to Your Organization?

At the Massachusetts Library System, we know libraries—and more importantly, we know librarians. Through our specialized staffing service, BiblioTemps®, we connect skilled library professionals with organizations across Massachusetts for both temporary and direct-hire roles. But you don’t have to run a library to benefit from a librarian’s expertise.

In today’s data-driven workplace, librarians offer a unique skill set that can bring exceptional value to businesses and organizations across industries. From organizing vast amounts of digital information to conducting detailed research or preserving historical records, librarians are natural problem-solvers who thrive at the intersection of knowledge and technology.

Here’s why hiring a librarian, especially through BiblioTemps—could be the best staffing decision you make.

Librarians are highly trained information professionals. Their expertise goes far beyond bookshelves and card catalogs—they are data wranglers, research experts, and digital content managers. These are just a few of the core competencies librarians can bring to your team:

  • Information Organization: Librarians know how to structure and manage large volumes of data in intuitive, accessible ways.
  • Research Expertise: Need competitor analysis, market trends, or in-depth technical research? Librarians excel at finding credible, relevant information quickly and efficiently.
  • Technology Proficiency: Today’s librarians are fluent in databases, digital tools, metadata systems, and content management platforms.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving: With their analytical approach and strong evaluation skills, librarians support better decision-making through trusted information.

What Roles Can Librarians Fill in Non-Library Settings?

The versatility of library professionals makes them a great addition to many teams, especially in roles that depend on managing knowledge or accessing information. Consider the following project examples:

Information or Knowledge Manager

Librarians can develop systems that make organizational knowledge accessible across departments. From writing data management plans to building and maintaining internal resource hubs, they create structures that improve information flow and reduce redundancy.

Corporate Researcher

In industries such as finance, law, healthcare, or marketing, librarians are skilled at conducting comprehensive research that can give your company a competitive edge.

Digital Content or Asset Manager

Whether you need someone to oversee a digital archive, manage licensing metadata, or organize internal documentation, librarians bring the technical expertise and precision needed to maintain digital content with integrity.

Archival Projects

Companies with a long history or complex records can benefit from a librarian’s ability to preserve, digitize, and catalog documents. Librarians can also help build searchable internal databases that improve efficiency and support institutional memory.

BiblioTemps is not your average staffing service. We understand both the specialized expertise of library workers and the distinct needs of employers. Our process is designed to be seamless, supportive, and equitable:

  • Transparent, personalized communication throughout the staffing process
  • Inclusive hiring practices to support diverse talent and workplace equity
  • Commitment to quality and collaboration from start to finish

Whether you’re seeking help on a short-term project or looking to fill a long-term position, we make the hiring process smooth and stress-free.

 

BiblioTemps® offers flexible staffing solutions for businesses, schools, nonprofits, and more. Our library professionals are ready to support your goals with the intelligence, adaptability, and expertise that sets them apart.

For more information, including our current brochure and rate card, please contact us or reach out directly to the BiblioTemps team.

Categories
Job Seekers

STAR Method: Your Guide to Telling Impactful Stories in Job Interviews

If you have a passion for libraries, you likely appreciate the impact a captivating story can have. When it comes to job interviews with libraries, have you considered weaving stories into the conversation? This is where the STAR Method can become your trusty friend. This structured storytelling method can help you present your experiences in a concise and memorable manner. By sharing narratives about your past experiences, challenges you’ve overcome, or projects you’ve completed, you can paint a vivid picture of your capabilities and leave a lasting impression on the interviewer.

What is the STAR Method?

STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. When you’re asked behavioral questions in a job interview, the STAR Method can be used to outline your response.

Examples of a behavioral question could be:

  • “Tell me about a time when…”
  • “Give me an example of…”
  • “Describe a situation where…”

How to Use the Star Method

  1. Situation: Begin by setting the scene. Describe the situation or event you were in. This gives the interviewer context and background information for your story. This should be 1 – 2 sentences.
  2. Task: Describe the task you were faced with. What was your role in the situation? What challenges were you dealing with? This should be 1 – 2 sentences.
  3. Action: Explain the action you took to address the task. What did you do? How did you do it? This is an opportunity to highlight your abilities and problem-solving skills. This should be 3 – 4 sentences.
  4. Result: Explain the result of your actions. What was the outcome? This last step can demonstrate not only your achievements, but also your ability to reflect and learn from your experiences. This should be 2 – 3 sentences.

Example

Question:

Tell me about a time when you had to balance multiple tasks in a busy library.

Answer:

Situation: There was a time when I was working at the circulation desk by myself at a university library and it became particularly busy. A few students were waiting to check out, one student approached saying they couldn’t find a textbook on course reserve, and the phone started ringing.

Task: It was my responsibility to manage these competing tasks efficiently, while also staying calm and welcoming to the patrons.

Action: I first answered the phone and calmly asked the caller if they could hold for a few minutes, and they agreed. I told the student looking for the textbook that I could help them shortly and then began checking out books for the students in line, moving quickly but still politely. Once the line was clear, I found the missing textbook that had been misfiled on a nearby cart and gave it to the student. I was then able to return to the caller to help with their question and I thanked them for their patience.

Result: By maintaining my calm, I was able to stay organized and assist everyone efficiently. Each person left with what they needed and one of the students thanked me for being so helpful and composed when they could tell it was such a busy time. The situation made me more confident in my ability to work under pressure and provide a positive experience for patrons.

Why use the STAR Method?

Have you ever started sharing what you intended to be a brief story, only for it to turn into a lengthy narrative? This is precisely what you want to avoid during a job interview. You also want to avoid giving answers that are vague and lack sufficient detail. By utilizing the STAR Method to outline your stories, you can make them easier for interviewers to follow while providing enough depth to illustrate your experience.

Practice

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and nervous in a job interview, so the best way to make sure you leave a great impression is to practice your answers ahead of time. Research common behavioral questions and prepare your response using the STAR Method. We recommend writing your answer out on a piece of paper and editing as needed. Once you’re happy with the answer you’ve formed, say it out loud. Whether it’s to yourself or with someone in your life, practice speaking your answers. The more comfortable you become with your responses, the more confident you will be in the interview.

We hope you find the STAR Method helpful for organizing your thoughts and standing out as you seek your next library position!

Categories
Job Seekers

Resume Tips to Help You Stand Out

From the BiblioTemps® Library Careers LibGuide

Your resume plays a vital role in the job search process. To support your success, we’ve compiled some practical tips for job seekers in the library field.

  1. Keep the Style Simple

When it comes to resume design, less is more. An overly stylized resume with multiple fonts, bright colors, or decorative graphics may seem creative, but it can actually be difficult to read—and may distract from your qualifications.

Instead, opt for a clean and professional look:

  • Stick to one easy-to-read font.
  • Use a consistent layout.
  • Avoid excessive formatting or colors.

The goal is to help hiring managers quickly understand your background and achievements without distraction.

  1. Avoid Photos

Including a photo might feel like a friendly personal touch, but it can come with downsides. A picture takes up valuable space that could be used for content and may inadvertently introduce bias into the review process. It can also distract from what really matters—your skills, experience, and accomplishments.

We recommend leaving the photo off and letting your qualifications speak for themselves.

  1. Less Is More

Your resume doesn’t need to tell your entire life story, it just needs to showcase your most relevant experience in a clear, concise way. In general, aim for one to two pages in length. Use bullet points rather than paragraphs to make information scannable.

For current students or recent graduates:

  • It’s okay to include coursework but choose only a few classes that are directly relevant to the role.
  • Prioritize internships, projects, and part-time work that demonstrate transferable skills.
  1. Try Resume Templates

Not sure where to start? Consider using a template to guide your formatting. One excellent, free option is the Harvard College Bullet Point Resume Template. It walks you through how to structure your resume with step-by-step instructions, making it easier to present your information professionally.

Need More Help?

These tips are just the beginning. Visit our Library Careers LibGuide to explore resume-building tools, a video panel with real-world hiring advice, and more resources to support your job search.

Categories
Library Life

Building Confidence and Community: A BiblioTemps® Interview with a Reference & Instruction Librarian

Our BiblioTemps® team take pride in supporting library professionals as they explore new roles, develop their skills, and build lasting connections. Each placement is more than just a temporary job, it’s a chance to grow, contribute, and discover new possibilities within the library field.

We caught up with one of our talented library workers to hear about their experience serving as a Reference and Instruction Librarian through BiblioTemps. From professional development to community impact, their journey offers valuable insight into what makes BiblioTemps placements both meaningful and memorable.

BiblioTemps: How did you first hear about BiblioTemps, and what motivated you to apply for a position through our service?
Interviewee: I first heard about BiblioTemps from a colleague at Mount Ida College who had worked with them before. Later, I attended a career fair at Simmons University to learn more about the service. A few months later, I came across a Reference and Instruction position posted by BiblioTemps on a library job board. It seemed like a great opportunity to expand my skills, so I decided to apply.

BiblioTemps: What kinds of tasks were you responsible for during your placement as a Reference and Instruction Librarian?
Interviewee: My role involved a variety of responsibilities. I was tasked with planning library events, organizing faculty orientations, scheduling research appointments, and coordinating with faculty. I also taught core library classes and worked closely with faculty to plan courses and ensure that students’ assignments made good use of library resources. Part of my role was also focused on improving processes within the library to make things run more smoothly. The library team was incredibly supportive and communicative, which made the experience very positive.

BiblioTemps: How did this experience contribute to your professional growth?
Interviewee: It was a significant boost to my professional development, especially in terms of teaching. I had the chance to teach a wide range of topics, including AI and Criminal Justice, which was both challenging and enjoyable. The diversity of subjects I covered really broadened my skill set and left me feeling more than prepared for future roles. It was a great opportunity to engage with different populations and faculty members, which has been invaluable for my growth.

BiblioTemps: Did you have any opportunities to build connections or network during your time with BiblioTemps?
Interviewee: Absolutely. I built lasting relationships with library staff, faculty, and even other departments on campus like the print shop and student services. These connections have definitely enriched my professional network and may lead to future opportunities.

BiblioTemps: Were there any standout experiences during your placement that you’d like to highlight?
Interviewee: Definitely. The community at the school really stood out to me. Everyone there was truly committed to helping students, which created a unique and supportive atmosphere. One memorable moment was when the Dean took me out to lunch as a farewell gesture—it was a really special experience compared to other schools I’ve worked at. But most importantly, I valued the moments when I could assist students who were struggling and see them leave feeling more confident.

BiblioTemps: Based on your experience, would you recommend BiblioTemps to others seeking temporary work in library settings?
Interviewee: Without a doubt. What makes BiblioTemps different is the personalized approach. I never felt like just another name on a list. Amanda and the team put real effort into helping me move forward. The sense of community within the organization really stood out.

BiblioTemps: How do you feel this experience has prepared you for future career opportunities?
Interviewee: This experience has been a solid foundation for my career growth. I’ve gained valuable skills and insights that I can take with me into future roles. Overall, I feel well-prepared for what’s next in my career.

Conclusion: A Meaningful Step Forward

We believe temporary placements should offer more than just a paycheck—they should offer growth, connection, and purpose. This interview highlights how our placements provide real-world experience, valuable mentorship, and professional support that lasts far beyond the end of an assignment.

We’re proud to help library professionals like this one find meaningful work that not only builds resumes, but builds confidence and community, too.

Interested in joining our network?
Visit www.bibliotemps.com to explore opportunities and learn how BiblioTemps can support your career journey.