Information Services
Librarians and library technicians work as Information Staff and have specific training associated with their jobs. Information Services staff need to be familiar with electronic devices and computers (e.g. eReaders and tablets) and a variety of software including apps, Office, social media and eBook software. Both positions require flexible, hardworking, personable, and eager to learn applicants. Related library experience and an interest in working in youth services and programming are assets. All applicants must enjoy working with children and their parents. Other duties and requirements are outlined in descriptions below.
Library Technicians
Library technicians perform a variety of duties as Information Services and Youth Services Technicians. Besides providing reference and readers' advisory services, staff also offer technical and device help and assist in the planning and presentation of programs, library tours and community outreach. Some technicians may perform cataloguing work in the Collections Services Department.
Selection Process
We require library technicians to take job specific tests, usually prior to the interview. Information Services Technicians are required to pass a two-hour written test demonstrating reference, computer and readers’ advisory knowledge, as well as customer service and high level clerical skills. During the test applicants have access to a computer and are encouraged to use the library catalogue, the Internet and other online resources as needed to complete the exam. The test includes types of questions typically asked at our public library information desks. The Youth Services Technician’s test focuses on services to children and is similar to the information services’ test but includes a storytime demonstration component. The Accessibility Services Technician’s test is similar, but focuses on readers’ advisory knowledge. The Cataloguing Technician’s test is also a two hour written test that focuses on cataloguing and classification.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Completion of an approved library technician diploma program
- Minimum Keyboarding skills of 35 words per minute
Interested in finding out more about getting a library technician diploma?
- Langara College Library & Information Technology Program
- University of the Fraser Valley Library and Information Technology Program
Librarians
Librarians provide information, reference and readers' advisory services, maintain and update a variety of print and electronic references sources, and present programs to promote the library and effective use of our resources. In many cases, librarians act in a supervisory capacity.
Qualifications & Requirements
- A degree in librarianship from an accredited library school
- Some professional library experience is an asset
Interested in learning more? Besides reading information on our website, contact the Manager of Information Services, Jennifer Wilson, at jennifer.wilson@surrey.ca
Interested in finding out more about being a librarian? See the School of Information at the University of British Columbia
How to Apply
Surrey Libraries accepts applications for current postings only, before the closing date.
Applications for librarians & library technicians must include a cover letter, résumé, and academic transcript (copies accepted).
If you are interested in more than one position, you must submit separate applications.
Contacted candidates will be required to successfully complete job-related assessments to validate their knowledge and skills. As a condition of employment, candidates who have been offered employment will be required to complete Criminal Record Checks. If you are sending your application electronically, there is a chance that the email you send to us could be intercepted in transit or sent to the wrong address. If you are concerned about the confidentiality of information (including your personal information) in transit, you should send it to us by a secure means. Surrey Libraries’ preferred method of delivery is by email.
For Students & Foreign-Trained Professionals
- Foreign-trained librarians and library technicians — Visit the Skilled Immigrant Information Centre
- Student librarians — Library school students who have completed the core courses may apply for casual employment as an Information Services Technician.
- Student library technicians — Library technician students may apply for casual employment as a Circulation Services Assistant.