Libraries and archives are invaluable resources for individuals seeking knowledge and information. Libraries provide a wide range physical and digital resources, catering to the diverse interests and needs of the community. Archives organise and preserve historical records and documents, ensuring their accessibility for future generations.
This pathway might be right for you if you are interested in preserving and organising information, helping others find what they need, and have a strong attention to detail.
What do careers in this pathway involve?
Both libraries and archives play a crucial role in preserving our collective knowledge and promoting lifelong learning in a friendly and welcoming environment. The field is evolving with digital technologies, creating new roles in digital preservation and online services.
While the number of traditional positions may not be growing rapidly, those with digital skills and adaptability will find opportunities as the field continues to change.
What are some important human skills for this pathway?
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Innovation
- Adaptability
- Digital Literacy
What are some of the tasks involved?
- Organise and file information
- Help people access information
- Preserve historical documents
- Teach others to find information
- Maintain detailed catalogues
- Archive digital files
- Source new materials
- Run community programs
- Develop archival systems
What kind of work environment and conditions can I expect?
You’ll usually find people in the libraries and archives pathway working indoors. As online services expand, the opportunity for flexible and remote work is growing – though many roles still require an on-site presence.
Most positions follow regular daytime hours, but public libraries often require some evening and weekend shifts to serve the community.
The Clusters in libraries and archives
Find out more about the kind of work people in each Career Cluster might do in this pathway.
Guardians
Guardians in this pathway monitor the preservation and ethical use of information and historical records.
Linkers
Linkers connect the community with library and archival services, resources, and educational programs.
Coordinators
Coordinators in this pathway manage library and archival operations, from acquisitions to public programs.
Informers
Informers are the backbone of this pathway, educating patrons on information literacy, research methods, and archival practices.
Makers
Makers are needed in this pathway to catalogue and maintain collections and assist patrons.
Innovators
Innovators in this pathway might develop new library technologies and information retrieval methods.
Where can a libraries and archives pathway take me?
Interested in a career in libraries and archives? There are many roles you might like to consider – here are just a few.
Entry level roles
These jobs can be started with little or no training or experience, and are great as a stepping stone towards more senior roles in the pathway.
Library Assistant
Help patrons find materials, check books in and out, and reshelve returned items.
Digitisation Technician
Scan and photograph historical documents to create digital copies for preservation and access.
Collections Assistant
Help maintain and catalogue special collections of rare or unique materials.
Mid-level roles
Once you have some further study or experience under your belt, you might like to consider moving into one of these roles.
Librarian
Select and organise library materials, create programs for patrons, and provide reference and research assistance.
Archivist
Appraise, process, catalogue, and preserve historical items while providing access to researchers.
Preservation Specialist
Implement conservation treatments and preventive measures to protect materials from deterioration.
Senior level roles
These jobs will require extensive further education or many years of experience, but are also highly rewarding.
Heritage Consultant
Provide expert advice on managing, preserving, and interpreting historical collections, buildings, and cultural sites.
Head of Technical Services
Oversee the acquisition, cataloguing, and processing of new library and archival materials.
Chief Conservator
Lead preservation and conservation efforts for collections and develop treatment plans for damaged materials.
Similar pathways
If these careers in libraries and archives aren’t quite right for you, you might like to explore some other similar pathways instead.
Galleries and Museums
Curate, preserve, and exhibit art and historical artifacts.
Tertiary Education
Develop and deliver courses, conduct research, and support student learning.
Religion
Guide and inspire individuals in their spiritual beliefs and practices.
How can I build experience in this pathway?
If you’re still in high school and want to find out if a career in libraries and archives is right for you, here are some activities you can do:
- Catalogue a small collection to understand archiving
- Study the Dewey Decimal system to understand library organisation
- Volunteer at your school, local library, or historical society
We recommend studying these subjects in high school:
- English
- Mathematics
- Society and Culture
- Legal Studies
- ICT
Here are some suggestions of places you might like to try and find work experience:
- Local historical societies, libraries, or museums
- Non-profit organisations focused on literacy or education
- Government agencies or departments related to cultural heritage or preservation
- Research institutions or universities with specialised collections or archives
- Digital media companies focused on digitising and preserving historical materials
Where can I find out more?
You can explore other career pathways and find in-depth information on specific jobs on our website.
