Library Technicians

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 14 (40%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 12 (34%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 9 (26%)

• Answer routine telephone or in-person reference inquiries, referring patrons to librarians for further assistance, when necessary.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Process print and non-print library materials to prepare them for inclusion in library collections.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Enter and update patrons' records on computers.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Maintain and troubleshoot problems with library equipment, including computers, photocopiers, and audio-visual equipment.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Collect fines and respond to complaints about fines.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Compile data and create statistical reports on library usage.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Review subject matter of materials to be classified and select classification numbers and headings according to classification systems.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Order all print and non-print library materials, checking prices, figuring costs, preparing order slips, and making payments.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Send out notices about lost or overdue books.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Verify bibliographical data for materials, including author, title, publisher, publication date, and edition.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Compose explanatory summaries of contents of books and other reference materials.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Design, customize, and maintain databases, web pages, and local area networks.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• File catalog cards according to system used.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Compile bibliographies and prepare abstracts on subjects of interest to particular organizations or groups.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Reserve, circulate, renew, and discharge books and other materials.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Help patrons find and use library resources, such as reference materials, audio-visual equipment, computers, and other electronic resources and provide technical assistance when needed.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Catalogue and sort books and other print and non-print materials according to procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Provide assistance to teachers and students by locating materials and helping to complete special projects.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Compile and maintain records relating to circulation, materials, and equipment.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Conduct reference searches, using printed materials and in-house and online databases.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Design posters and special displays to promote use of library facilities or specific reading programs at libraries.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Process interlibrary loans for patrons.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Retrieve information from central databases for storage in a library's computer.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Organize and maintain periodicals and reference materials.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Claim missing issues of periodicals and journals.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Collaborate with archivists to arrange for the safe storage of historical records and documents.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Deliver and retrieve items throughout the library by hand or using pushcart.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Take actions to halt disruption of library activities by problem patrons.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Check for damaged library materials, such as books or audio-visual equipment, and provide replacements or make repairs.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Train other staff, volunteers, or student assistants and schedule and supervise their work.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Issue identification cards to borrowers.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Plan and conduct children's programs, community outreach programs, and other specialized programs, such as library tours.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Sort and deliver library mail and packages.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Operate and maintain audio-visual equipment, such as projectors, tape recorders, and videocassette recorders.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Prepare volumes for binding.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task