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Library Careers: Job Search

A collection of resources to use while reviewing and updating your resume.

Job Boards

Stay Organized

Applying to jobs online can be an overwhelming process, especially when you are applying to many positions. We recommend keeping a record of what jobs you have applied to and when. Use whatever method works best for you, whether that be a spreadsheet or a written list. Some of the benefits are:

  • Staying organized can help ease some of the stress.
  • Keeping track of your applications may prevent you from accidentally applying to the same position twice.
  • You can easily refer to your notes if you’re wondering how long it’s been since you applied, if you should send a follow up message to the employer, or how many jobs you are waiting to hear back from.

Search Tips

Whether it's the hours spent applying to jobs or a rejection after an interview, the stress of the job hunt can take a toll on your mental health.

We hope these tips can serve as a reminder to take care of yourself and a little extra motivation to keep moving forward.

  1. Reframe the experience
    If you look for what you can learn from every outcome, even a rejection, it can provide you with a new perspective that can help keep you moving forward.
  2. Adjust your approach
    Job hunting and interviewing can be a draining process. If you're feeling stuck, research new strategies for job searching, interviewing, and editing your resume.
  3. Celebrate your efforts along the way
    After applying to jobs, give yourself a break and do something you enjoy. Plan a dinner with a loved one for after an interview. These pick-me-ups along the way can help you stay positive.

Specialized Library Organizations

For those looking to build a career in libraries, specialized library organizations provide invaluable resources tailored to different areas of the profession. Whether you're interested in working in academic, public, medical, law, or special libraries, these associations offer job boards, professional development opportunities, networking events, and industry insights. From the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL) supporting legal information professionals to the Medical Library Association (MLA) offering education in health sciences librarianship, each organization serves a unique sector of the field. Exploring these websites can help you find the right career path, connect with experts, and access tools to advance in your chosen specialty.