Competition for entry-level roles
The number of library assistants remains steady and it can be difficult to get entry-level roles.
Opportunities are better in public libraries than in the private sector where there are fewer libraries.
According to the Census, 2,037 library assistants worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Better job opportunities with digital and educational skills and knowledge
Chances of getting a job as a library assistant are best if you have strong information technology and educational skills, as well as a wide knowledge of books.
You can further increase your job chances if you:
- have knowledge and understanding of tikanga Māori
- are qualified and willing to work in rural areas
- have work experience or have volunteered in libraries.
Most library assistants work in public libraries
Most library assistants in New Zealand work for public libraries and about a quarter work for tertiary libraries.
Library assistants may also work for:
- the National Library of New Zealand (the largest single employer of library assistants)
- libraries or information services that serve government departments, organisations or companies (special libraries)
- school libraries
- law libraries
- prison libraries
- museum and heritage libraries.
