Law Librarian Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving legal landscape, the role of law librarian assistants has never been more crucial.

As law continues to transform, the need for skilled individuals who can navigate, manage, and protect our legal resources increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a law librarian assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the dynamics of legal librarianship,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we’re presenting a customizable law librarian assistant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Law Librarian Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Law Librarian Assistants play a crucial role in the effective running of a law library.

They assist the Law Librarian in various tasks and have diverse responsibilities, which ensure that the library remains organized, up-to-date, and easily accessible for legal professionals.

Their responsibilities and duties include:

• Assist patrons in finding the legal resources they need
• Help maintain and update the library’s collection of law books, periodicals, and digital resources
• Index and catalogue new legal materials and resources
• Assist in the management of library databases and legal research software
• Respond to inquiries from patrons, which may include lawyers, law students, or other legal professionals
• Perform routine administrative tasks, including checking in and checking out materials
• Assist in training patrons on how to use the library’s resources effectively
• Support the Law Librarian in conducting research on legal topics
• Stay up-to-date with new legal publications and resources, recommending acquisitions as necessary

 

Law Librarian Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Law Librarian Assistant to support the function of our law library.

The responsibilities of the Law Librarian Assistant include assisting with research, helping patrons locate resources, maintaining the library’s database, and ensuring that all materials are correctly classified and organized.

Our ideal candidate is a detail-oriented individual with strong organizational skills and a keen interest in law.

The candidate should have a good understanding of library systems and be comfortable interacting with patrons on a daily basis.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist patrons in conducting legal research and locating necessary resources.
• Maintain and update the library’s database system.
• Organize and classify library materials according to relevant classification systems.
• Assist in the acquisition and cataloguing of new resources.
• Ensure the library is kept clean and orderly.
• Handle administrative tasks such as answering phones and filing paperwork.
• Support the Law Librarian in daily operations and special projects.
• Stay informed about current trends and advancements in library services.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a library setting, preferably in a law library.
• Knowledge of library database systems and classification standards.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to assist in conducting legal research.
• Associate’s degree in Library Science or a related field. Bachelor’s degree preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Law Librarian Assistant
• Work Environment: Law Library setting with occasional need for travel for conferences or trainings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Law Librarian.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Law Librarian Assistant Do?

Law Librarian Assistants are typically employed in law firms, government agencies, courts, and law schools.

They may also work in public or private libraries that have a law section.

Their primary responsibility is to assist Law Librarians and legal researchers in finding and organizing legal resources.

This includes the collection, cataloging, and maintenance of law books, legal periodicals, digital legal resources, and other reference materials.

Law Librarian Assistants are often tasked with conducting preliminary research for legal staff, compiling bibliographies, retrieving legal documents, and helping patrons in using library resources.

They also maintain databases and digital catalog systems to ensure that legal materials are easily accessible.

Additionally, they may help in the training of library users on how to effectively use library resources, databases, and other research tools.

Law Librarian Assistants also assist in the day-to-day operations of the library, such as checking books in and out, reshelving books, and maintaining a quiet, organized environment for study and research.

In some settings, they might be responsible for updating and maintaining the library’s website, creating user guides and instructional materials, and assisting with library outreach and promotional activities.

 

Law Librarian Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Law Librarian Assistant should possess skills and qualifications that align with the specific needs of a law firm or legal entity, these include:

• Knowledge of legal terminologies and law books to aid in the retrieval and organization of legal resources.
• Excellent organizational skills for managing and cataloging books, periodicals, and electronic resources.
• Proficiency in using library and database software to maintain and update library systems.
• Good interpersonal skills to interact with attorneys, staff, and library visitors, providing courteous and efficient assistance.
• Attention to detail for checking library materials for damage and performing minor repairs or replacements as needed.
• Communication skills for understanding user requests and explaining the correct use of library resources.
• Problem-solving skills to assist in research requests and to find solutions for library or user issues.
• Knowledge of library procedures and the ability to follow library policies, including circulation, interlibrary loan, and reference services.

 

Law Librarian Assistant Experience Requirements

Entry-level Law Librarian Assistant candidates generally have a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in libraries, law firms, or academic institutions.

This could involve tasks such as managing, cataloging, and circulating library materials, as well as assisting with research tasks.

Candidates with 2 to 4 years of experience usually have more responsibility in their previous roles, which might include overseeing library operations, providing research support to attorneys or law students, and aiding in the development and implementation of library policies and procedures.

Individuals with over 5 years of experience often have a solid understanding of legal research methods and resources, and have a history of managing large-scale library projects.

They may also have experience with library software systems and digital databases, and are generally comfortable with a high degree of responsibility.

Those with significant experience in the field may be prepared for more advanced positions such as Law Librarian, where they could have the responsibility of managing the entire library’s operations, including budgeting, collection development, and staffing.

In all cases, experience with legal research or a background in law can be a significant advantage for a Law Librarian Assistant.

 

Law Librarian Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Law Librarian Assistants typically hold a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, but a bachelor’s degree in library science, law, or a related field is often preferred.

Fundamental coursework in legal studies, library science, and data management is beneficial for this role.

Strong knowledge of law literature, legal terminology, and cataloging systems is generally expected.

Experience or familiarity with legal software such as Westlaw or LexisNexis is also advantageous.

In some cases, law firms or legal libraries may require their Law Librarian Assistants to have a degree in law (JD) or a master’s degree in library science (MLS), particularly if they are in charge of more complex research or database management tasks.

Certification is not typically required, but voluntary certification from an accredited library association can demonstrate a commitment to the profession and enhance employment opportunities.

Continuing education and professional development opportunities are recommended to stay up-to-date with changes in legal literature and library management technologies.

 

Law Librarian Assistant Salary Expectations

A Law Librarian Assistant can expect to earn an average salary of $47,000 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary depending on factors such as experience, level of education, location, and the specific employer.

 

Law Librarian Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Law Librarian Assistant need?

A Law Librarian Assistant should have strong organizational and communication skills.

They need to have a good understanding of legal terminologies and be familiar with legal databases and reference materials.

Attention to detail is important, as well as the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a busy environment.

Basic computer skills and experience with library cataloging systems is also a plus.

 

Do Law Librarian Assistants need a degree?

While it is not always a requirement, many Law Librarian Assistants hold a bachelor’s degree.

Degrees in library science, law, or a related field can be beneficial.

Additionally, experience in a legal or library setting can be very helpful.

There are also certification programs available for library technicians that can enhance a candidate’s qualifications.

 

What should you look for in a Law Librarian Assistant resume?

Look for evidence of relevant experience in a legal or library setting.

They should have experience with library cataloging systems and legal databases.

Skills in customer service and communications are also important.

Any additional qualifications, such as a degree or certification in library science or law, would also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Law Librarian Assistant?

A good Law Librarian Assistant is organized, detail-oriented, and has a strong understanding of legal terminology and resources.

They should be comfortable working with a variety of people, including lawyers, law students, and the general public.

They need to be reliable, able to multitask, and handle confidential information responsibly.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Law Librarian Assistant?

The difficulty in hiring a Law Librarian Assistant often depends on the specific requirements of the role.

If the role requires specific knowledge or skills, such as familiarity with legal databases or experience in a law library, it can be more challenging to find qualified candidates.

However, with a clear job description and targeted recruitment, finding a suitable candidate is certainly achievable.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the ins and outs of a law librarian assistant‘s role.

Surprised?

It’s not just about stacking books.

It’s about creating a hub of legal knowledge, one resource at a time.

With our tailor-made law librarian assistant job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But don’t stop now.

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your guide to crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every book and resource is part of a larger legal framework.

Let’s build that knowledge base. Together.

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