Library clerks and assistants

11 of 32 tasks in this role are things an AI can already do today. Task list mapped via O*NET "Library Assistants, Clerical" (43-4121.00).

1. Classify and catalog items according to content and purpose.

   AI can do thisimportance 4.3/5
2. Enter and update patrons' records on computers.

   AI can do thisimportance 4.3/5
3. Maintain records of items received, stored, issued, and returned and file catalog cards according to system used.

   AI can do thisimportance 4.0/5
4. Perform clerical activities, such as answering phones, sorting mail, filing, typing, word processing, and photocopying and mailing out material.

   AI can do thisimportance 4.0/5
5. Review records, such as microfilm and issue cards, to identify titles of overdue materials and delinquent borrowers.

   AI can do thisimportance 3.8/5
6. Send out notices and accept fine payments for lost or overdue books.

   AI can do thisimportance 3.8/5
7. Perform accounting and bookkeeping activities, such as invoicing, maintaining financial records, budgeting, and handling cash.

   AI can do thisimportance 3.7/5
8. Design or maintain library web site and online catalogues.

   AI can do thisimportance 3.6/5
9. Prepare, store, and retrieve classification and catalog information, lecture notes, or other information related to stored documents, using computers.

   AI can do thisimportance 3.6/5
10. Select substitute titles when requested materials are unavailable, following criteria such as age, education, and interests.

    AI can do thisimportance 3.4/5
11. Prepare library statistics reports.

    AI can do thisimportance 3.4/5
12. Sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.

    Human workimportance 4.3/5
13. Open and close library during specified hours and secure library equipment, such as computers and audio-visual equipment.

    Human workimportance 4.3/5
14. Locate library materials for patrons, including books, periodicals, tape cassettes, Braille volumes, and pictures.

    Human workimportance 4.3/5
15. Answer routine inquiries and refer patrons in need of professional assistance to librarians.

    Human workimportance 4.3/5
16. Manage reserve materials by placing items on reserve for library patrons, checking items in and out of library, and removing out-of-date items.

    Human workimportance 4.2/5
17. Lend, reserve, and collect books, periodicals, videotapes, and other materials at circulation desks and process materials for inter-library loans.

    Human workimportance 4.1/5
18. Instruct patrons on how to use reference sources, card catalogs, and automated information systems.

    Human workimportance 4.1/5
19. Inspect returned books for condition and due-date status and compute any applicable fines.

    Human workimportance 4.1/5
20. Register new patrons and issue borrower identification cards that permit patrons to borrow books and other materials.

    Human workimportance 4.0/5
21. Operate small branch libraries, under the direction of off-site librarian supervisors.

    Human workimportance 4.0/5
22. Process new materials including books, audio-visual materials, and computer software.

    Human workimportance 3.9/5
23. Provide assistance to librarians in the maintenance of collections of books, periodicals, magazines, newspapers, and audio-visual and other materials.

    Human workimportance 3.8/5
24. Plan or participate in library events and programs, such as story time with children.

    Human workimportance 3.8/5
25. Maintain library equipment, such as photocopiers, scanners, and computers, and instruct patrons in proper use of such equipment.

    Human workimportance 3.7/5
26. Schedule, supervise, and train clerical workers, volunteers, student assistants, and other library employees.

    Human workimportance 3.7/5
27. Repair books using mending tape, paste, and brushes or prepare books to be sent to a bindery for repair.

    Human workimportance 3.7/5
28. Operate and maintain audio-visual equipment.

    Human workimportance 3.7/5
29. Take action to deal with disruptive or problem patrons.

    Human workimportance 3.7/5
30. Acquire books, pamphlets, periodicals, audio-visual materials, and other library supplies by checking prices, figuring costs, and preparing appropriate order forms and facilitating the ordering process by providing such information to others.

    Human workimportance 3.5/5
31. Deliver and retrieve items to and from departments by hand or using push carts.

    Human workimportance 3.3/5
32. Assist in the preparation of book displays.

    Human workimportance 3.1/5