Not just a smiling face : an analysis of the job of the public library assistant in New Zealand

Abstract

This research project analyses the role of the library assistant in New Zealand public libraries. Information was gathered using a mail out survey instrument. Participants were asked to provide information on what qualifications they held or were studying for, the training they received at their work place, what tasks they regularly undertook in the course of their work, and how they felt about their position within the library they worked at. A mixed methods approach was taken for this project The first part of the survey consisted of quantitative questions which were coded and entered onto a spreadsheet to be turned into charts and tables. The second part of the survey was qualitative in nature, asking more open-ended questions about qualifications, training and skills. The findings suggest that automation, the Internet and electronic resources have redefined the role of the library assistant, although they are still required to retain more traditional skills such as readers advisory work. Workplace training needs to reflect these changes, and a nationally accredited library competency framework for library assistants was suggested as a way of introducing consistency in workplace training.