Author: Heather Hibbard

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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.

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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.

Categories
Job Seekers

The BiblioTemps® Library Careers LibGuide: Your Resource for Professional Growth

Our Library Careers LibGuide, is a growing collection of resources designed to support current and aspiring library workers at every stage of their career. Whether you’re just entering the field, looking to advance, or exploring new opportunities, this guide offers practical tools, timely advice, and insight into the library field.

Now Available: Resumes & Cover Letters Page, Interview Strategies & Preparation, and Job Searching.

 

Our first page: Resumes and Cover Letters—because crafting a compelling application is the first step toward landing your next great role.

Here’s what you’ll find on the page:

  • Resume-Building Tools to help you format, organize, and tailor your documents effectively.
  • Tips for Using Generative AI responsibly and efficiently to enhance your materials.
  • Our 2021 Resume Panel Video, featuring experienced library professionals sharing insider perspectives on what employers really look for.
  • Best Practices for writing cover letters that stand out and highlight your qualifications with confidence.

Whether you’re polishing an old resume or creating one from scratch, these resources can help ensure your application materials reflect your skills, experience, and potential in the best possible light.

Our LibGuide includes a dedicated page on Interviewing. This section contains:

  • Mock Interview Questions tailored to a variety of library roles.
  • Tips for Virtual and In-Person Interviews, including how to communicate your strengths clearly and authentically.

Also available on our LibGuide are resources to assist in the job search, including an extensive list of Library related job boards, professional associations, and search tips.

 

Why We Created This Guide

We are passionate about supporting library workers—not just in job placement, but in long-term professional development. The Library Careers LibGuide is part of our commitment to empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in a rapidly changing field.

We invite you to explore the guide, use what’s helpful, and check back often as we continue to expand the content.

Whether you’re actively job searching, planning your next move, or simply curious about career pathways in libraries, we hope this LibGuide will be a valuable companion on your journey.