Librarian in 650: Ashurbanipal's library at Nineveh

Do you need a degree to become a librarian? In most countries, yes, though the shape differs. The United States and Canada expect a master's degree in library and information science accredited by the American Library Association. The UK accepts an accredited degree plus CILIP professional registration. France recruits its senior librarians through a competitive state examination, and Germany trains academic librarians in a salaried two-year Referendariat after a subject degree.

What do librarians actually do all day? Far less shelving than the stereotype suggests. A working day mixes reference questions, teaching sessions or children's programs, selecting and weeding the collection, fixing metadata, managing e-lending platforms and negotiating with vendors. In academic libraries much of the work is teaching research skills and managing data; in public libraries a growing share is frontline social work — helping people with forms, jobs and services.

How long does it take to become a librarian? Typically five to seven years after leaving school: a bachelor's degree in any subject, then a one- to two-year graduate library qualification, then an entry-level professional post. Countries with examination or traineeship systems, such as France and Germany, add a further one to two salaried years. Many librarians qualify part-time while already working in a library as an assistant.