Technical Services Librarian Resume Guide

Technical Services Librarians are responsible for managing the acquisition, cataloguing and classification of library materials. They process new items to make them available for patrons, update existing records in databases or catalogue systems, and work closely with vendors to ensure timely delivery of resources.

You possess the perfect combination of technical know-how and customer service skills to be an asset in any library. To make hiring managers aware of your qualifications, you must create a resume that highlights all your accomplishments.

This guide will walk you through the entire process of creating a top-notch resume. We first show you a complete example and then break down what each resume section should look like.

The guide is divided into sections for your convenience. You can read it from beginning to end or use the table of contents below to jump to a specific part.

Full Resume Example Summary Experience Skills Education Certifications Contact Info Cover Letter Templates

Technical Services Librarian Resume Sample

Eloise King
Technical Services Librarian

[email protected]
847-071-2100
linkedin.com/in/eloise-king

Summary

Passionate and organized Technical Services Librarian with 7+ years of experience in information technology and library services. Expertise includes collection development, cataloging, metadata creation/management, project management, and budget administration. At XYZ Library developed an innovative system to improve the user experience for patrons by 50%. Highly proficient in a wide range of software applications including Adobe Acrobat Pro DC and Microsoft Office Suite products.

Experience

Technical Services Librarian, Employer A
Reno, Jan 2018 – Present

Reorganized the technical services library collections, cataloging and indexing over 5,000 resources while increasing access by 15%.
Participated in the installation of new software systems for patrons to use when searching for materials; successfully trained 30+ staff members on proper usage.
Spearheaded an initiative to digitize records and archives, resulting in a 50% reduction of paper-based documents stored within the library facility.
Trained other librarians on best practices related to filing systems, data entry processes & collection management techniques; reduced errors by 10%.
Thoroughly reviewed all incoming books and other material donations from publishers before adding them into circulation inventory; increased donation acceptance rate from 40% to 70%.

Technical Services Librarian, Employer B
Augusta, Mar 2012 – Dec 2017

Formulated technical services procedures and protocols, resulting in a 10% increase of library efficiency.
Catalogued over 6,000 library items with accurate subject headings and call numbers; improved searchability by 70%.
Represented the library’s technical service department at local conferences to discuss best practices for cataloguing new materials.
Substantially reduced the amount of time required to process requests from patrons by developing an automated system that allowed users faster access to resources with increased accuracy; saved 200+ hours per quarter on average.
Introduced innovative digital tools into the workflow process, enabling staff members to better organize & manage tasks associated with collection development & maintenance within budget constraints; decreased labor costs by $4,500 annually.

Skills

Database Management
Research and Reference Services
Cataloging and Metadata
Instructional Design
Digital Asset Management
Copyright and Licensing
Systems and Network Administration
Collection Development
Technical Writing

Education

Master of Library and Information Science
Educational Institution XYZ
Nov 2011

Certifications

Certified Technical Services Librarian
American Library Association
May 2017

Related Resume Examples

Library Technician

All Examples

1. Summary / Objective

Your resume summary/objective should provide the hiring manager with a snapshot of your experience and skills as a technical services librarian. For example, you could mention the library systems you are familiar with, any certifications or qualifications that make you stand out from other applicants, and how many years of experience in this field you have. You can also include details about your ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues on projects or initiatives related to technology-based services.

Below are some resume summary examples:

Skilled technical services librarian with 5+ years of experience providing support to patrons, libraries and other information centers. Skilled in managing library collections, cataloging resources and conducting research to ensure accuracy. Proven ability to develop new procedures that enhance user access and satisfaction while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. Seeking an opportunity at ABC Library where I can utilize my expertise for the benefit of its users.

Seasoned technical services librarian with 5+ years of experience in library operations and collections management. Skilled at cataloging, acquisitions, circulation control systems, patron assistance, and reference services. At XYZ Library successfully digitized over 20K books for online access by patrons. Experienced in utilizing modern technologies to streamline library processes while ensuring high-quality customer service standards are maintained at all times.

Well-rounded technical services librarian with 6+ years of experience providing library services to patrons and managing digital resources. Seeking to join ABC Library System as the next technical services librarian, leveraging strong customer service skills combined with in-depth knowledge of cataloging standards and best practices. In previous roles, improved access times for online resources by 27% while maintaining a 98% accuracy rate on all data entry tasks.

Talented technical services librarian with 7+ years of experience in library operations, cataloging and collection development. Skilled at providing excellent customer service to patrons while maintaining a diverse range of resources. Achieved 200% growth in circulation rates over 3-year period through creative marketing campaigns and outreach programs. Experienced using various library systems such as ILS, OCLC and CIP for efficient resource management.

Detail-oriented technical services librarian with 5+ years of experience in the library management field. Exceptional ability to design, develop and implement innovative technical processes that maximize efficiency while improving user experiences. Experienced in managing databases, cataloging materials, and providing reference assistance. Skilled at leveraging a variety of technology tools to effectively manage library operations and resources.

Dependable technical services librarian with 6+ years of experience managing library collections and providing reference assistance. Skilled in using various classification systems, cataloging materials, responding to patrons’ requests for information, and promoting library resources. Looking to join ABC Library as a Technical Services Librarian where I can utilize my skillset and continue developing innovative approaches to resource management.

Energetic and experienced technical services librarian with 5+ years of experience in library automation and circulation systems. Possesses a strong knowledge of current trends and best practices, as well as the ability to develop cataloging workflows that increase efficiency while maintaining high standards for data accuracy. Seeking to join ABC Library’s team where I can use my skillset to provide excellent service to patrons.

Enthusiastic technical services librarian with 5+ years of experience in library management and customer service. Proficient in cataloging, digital archiving, collection development, and other processes related to technical services operations. Seeking to join ABC Library as Technical Services Librarian where I can leverage my knowledge of library systems and technology to provide outstanding service for patrons.

2. Experience / Employment

Next comes the work history section, which should be written in reverse chronological order. This means that your most recent job is listed first.

When writing this section, you want to use bullet points primarily; doing so allows the reader to quickly digest what you are saying. When creating these bullets, think about the details of what you did and any quantifiable results achieved.

For example, instead of saying “Provided technical services,” you could say, “Managed a library’s digital content collection by cataloging over 5 thousand records per month using MARC 21 standards.”

To write effective bullet points, begin with a strong verb or adverb. Industry specific verbs to use are:

Catalogued
Assisted
Troubleshot
Monitored
Configured
Researched
Developed
Implemented
Tested
Analyzed
Trained
Documented
Upgraded
Managed
Optimized

Other general verbs you can use are:

Achieved
Advised
Assessed
Compiled
Coordinated
Demonstrated
Expedited
Facilitated
Formulated
Improved
Introduced
Mentored
Participated
Prepared
Presented
Reduced
Reorganized
Represented
Revised
Spearheaded
Streamlined
Structured
Utilized

Below are some example bullet points:

Streamlined technical services processes and procedures, resulting in a 25% improvement of library resources access time.
Managed and maintained the daily operations of the technical services department by troubleshooting system issues as well as overseeing inventory control; implemented an automated tracking system for resource ordering which saved $4,000 annually.
Demonstrated extensive knowledge in cataloging rules (AACR2), MARC21 formats, Metadata standards (MODS/MADS) and Library of Congress classification systems while accurately organizing over 2,000 books per week into library databases.
Proficiently employed various software applications such as SirsiDynix Symphony & Encore Synergy to process acquisitions requests from vendors and maintain digitization projects on schedule with minimal errors or delays.
Analyzed user data reports to understand customer needs better; developed innovative new ideas that increased usage rate by 14%.

Accurately configured over 500 library computers and mobile devices to ensure optimal performance, reducing system downtime by 25%.
Advised patrons on the use of digital resources such as databases, eBooks and online journals; responded to over 700 patron queries in a timely manner.
Documented all IT trouble tickets received from staff members regarding malfunctioning hardware or software problems; resolved 90% within 24 hours.
Researched & evaluated new technology solutions for potential implementation into the library’s technical services platform; identified cost savings measures that resulted in an annual budget reduction of $15,000+.
Configured audio-visual equipment for events/seminars hosted at the library with minimal supervision; successfully set up 10+ presentations without any issues reported from attendees.

Achieved an 85% satisfaction rating from patrons by providing high quality technical services support, including troubleshooting and responding to inquiries.
Effectively managed the library’s software systems; upgraded hardware and software applications on over 100 computers with zero downtime or user disruption.
Utilized web-based tools such as HTML, CSS & JavaScript to develop comprehensive online tutorials for users seeking assistance with technological resources in the library setting.
Compiled a database of frequently asked questions (FAQ) pertaining to technology use and updated it weekly based on patron feedback; increased access rate by 72%.
Assisted staff members in navigating electronic databases while performing research related tasks; reduced time spent searching for information by 50%.

Coordinated the technical services operations for a large-scale library, overseeing the cataloging of 30,000+ items and managing over 120 patrons’ online accounts.
Assisted users in locating materials via advanced search techniques such as Boolean logic; provided detailed reference assistance to over 500 patrons each month.
Presented instructional webinars on various aspects of library technology usage and use of databases; increased customer satisfaction ratings by 10%.
Meticulously tracked overdue book returns & fines using an integrated system; reduced total overdue item count by 15% within the first 6 months in role.
Implemented new policies around collections management which drastically improved turnaround times for books and other media – decreased average wait time from 3 weeks to 2 days per request.

Prepared technical services reports, cataloging records and other library documents for 10+ patrons every day; increased accuracy of metadata by 17%.
Improved operational efficiency in the library’s technical services department by creating a new system to track acquisitions and losses more effectively.
Revised existing copy cataloging procedures to ensure that all electronic resources were accurately indexed according to ALA standards and guidelines; reduced resource access time per patron by 15 minutes on average.
Resourcefully troubleshot hardware/software issues with various types of computer equipment used in the library while maintaining an up-to-date inventory of IT assets across multiple locations within budgeted limits (+$1,000).
Optimized search functions through database analysis, resulting in improved navigation capabilities which resulted in a 20% increase in website traffic over 6 months.

Monitored library patrons’ computer and technical needs, troubleshot issues with hardware/software problems including printers and scanners, and provided necessary support to over 500 visitors daily; increased customer satisfaction by 15%.
Expedited library processes such as cataloging books on the shelves, checking out materials for patrons using automated systems like RFID tags & barcodes scanners, and organizing reference materials in a timely manner; completed tasks 20% faster than required standards.
Troubleshot malfunctioning IT equipment such as computers, projectors & AV components in meeting rooms while providing technical assistance whenever needed; reduced downtime of library services due to technology-related malfunctions by 30%.
Efficiently managed online resources such as databases research tools available through the library’s website plus access to electronic journals & magazines subscriptions; improved user experience by increasing response time 25%.
Mentored colleagues on proper usage of digital media technologies used throughout the library system including audio-visual editing software programs (VideoScribe) plus video conferencing applications (Zoom); trained 10+ staff members who achieved certification within 6 months.

Developed and implemented technical services procedures to streamline acquisitions, cataloging and circulation processes; improved turnaround time for library materials by 25%.
Tested new library systems and software regularly with the aim of increasing efficiency in book searching, borrowing and returning activities; saved an average of 4 hours a day in manual data entry tasks.
Facilitated training sessions as needed for staff on how to use various information retrieval platforms, such as online databases or collection management tools; achieved 100% user proficiency within 6 months from launch date.
Competently handled requests from patrons regarding reference questions or computer troubleshooting issues using problem-solving skills combined with knowledge gained through relevant coursework/training programs.
Structured the workflow between Technical Services Department personnel while managing holdings maintenance projects (e.g., weeding out outdated materials) which resulted in a 50% increase in productivity levels over 3 months’ duration period.

3. Skills

Skill requirements will differ from one employer to the next; this can easily be ascertained from the job posting. Organization A may require the candidate to be proficient in a certain library management system, while Organization B may require knowledge of web development tools.

It is important to tailor your skills section on your resume for each job you are applying for because many employers use applicant tracking systems these days. These computer programs scan resumes for specific keywords before passing them on to a human being – if they don’t find what they’re looking for, then it’s unlikely that you will make it past this stage!.

Once listed here, you can further elaborate on your skillset by discussing it in more detail in other areas such as the summary or experience section.

Below is a list of common skills & terms:

Cataloging and Metadata
Collection Development
Copyright and Licensing
Database Management
Digital Asset Management
Instructional Design
Research and Reference Services
Systems and Network Administration
Technical Writing

4. Education

Including an education section on your resume will depend on how far along you are in your career. If you just graduated and have no work experience, mention your education below the objective statement of your resume. However, if you already have a few years’ worth of relevant technical services librarian experience under your belt, it might be best to omit this section altogether and focus more heavily on showcasing that experience instead.

If an education section is included, try to highlight courses related to the job such as library science or information technology.

Master of Library and Information Science
Educational Institution XYZ
Nov 2011

5. Certifications

Certifications are a great way to demonstrate your expertise in a certain field. They can be used to show potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills required for the job, as well as prove that you are committed to staying up-to-date with industry trends.

Including certifications on your resume is an excellent way of demonstrating your qualifications and giving yourself an edge over other applicants. Make sure any relevant certifications are highlighted prominently so they don’t get overlooked by hiring managers!

Certified Technical Services Librarian
American Library Association
May 2017

6. Contact Info

Your name should be the first thing a reader sees when viewing your resume, so ensure its positioning is prominent. Your phone number should be written in the most commonly used format in your country/city/state, and your email address should be professional.

You can also choose to include a link to your LinkedIn profile, personal website, or other online platforms relevant to your industry.

Finally, name your resume file appropriately to help hiring managers; for Eloise King, this would be Eloise-King-resume.pdf or Eloise-King-resume.docx.

7. Cover Letter

Including a cover letter with your job application can help you make a great first impression. It’s an opportunity to explain why you are the perfect fit for the role and showcase your most relevant qualifications, experiences and skills.

Cover letters usually consist of 2 to 4 paragraphs that summarise who you are and what makes you stand out from other applicants. They should also include information that isn’t already mentioned in your resume such as any awards or achievements related to the position being applied for.

Below is an example cover letter:

Dear Pat,

I am writing to apply for the Technical Services Librarian position at XYZ Library. With my experience in cataloging and classification, along with my knowledge of metadata standards, I feel confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team.

In my current role as Technical Services Librarian at ABC Library, I oversee all aspects of acquisitions, cataloging, and classification. I have also been instrumental in leading several projects to convert our legacy catalog data to MARC21 format and implement RDA standards. My experience has given me a deep understanding of both technical services and library operations, which I believe would make me an ideal candidate for this position.

In addition to my technical skills, I am also an excellent communicator and have a proven track record of collaborating effectively with other departments within the library. I am confident that I could provide the same level of service to XYZ Library and help contribute to its success.

Thank you for your time and consideration; I look forward to speaking with you about this opportunity soon.

Sincerely,

Eloise