Many bookworms dream of working in a library, and this is where you thrive. Thanks to your excellent attention to detail and impeccable memory, you help people find the books they didn’t even know they needed.
Whether you’re into biographies or Regency romance novels, you’ve read countless captivating tales. But now it’s time to tell your own story to potential employers, and to do that, you’ll need a standout librarian resume and accompanying cover letter.
But how do you find the right words? It’s okay—we’re here to guide you. With our librarian cover letter examples and cover letter generator, you’ll sweep the recruiters right off their feet.
Why this cover letter works
- Did you know that one of your professional experiences, when well-narrated in your librarian cover letter, could flip the scale in your favor? Yes, it’s about providing your worth.
- Emulate how Freja details her time at Leon Valley Public Library. Talk about how your skills and your prowess in relevant tools (cue, Endeca and CONTENdm) were put to the test and fortify your achievement (s) with genuine numbers. Don’t be fluffy, though.
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Why this cover letter works
- Ever considered hitting that sweet spot between showing admiration and making the potential employer feel seen? It’s as simple as employing the “I know you” approach, as Rafael does by referring to the recent funding The University of Chicago Libraries received.
- Take the time to research the company’s latest accomplishments, awards, or even future projects, and connect this knowledge to your motivation to contribute. First, it shows you did your homework, like the enthusiastic candidate you are. Secondly, it screams compatibility with the company and adds value to your librarian assistant cover letter.
Librarian Assistant No Experience Cover Letter Example
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Why this cover letter works
- Trying to land a job with limited professional experience can be intimidating. That’s where your creativity and resourcefulness demonstrated in a school or personal project swoop in to save the day.
- An example in this librarian assistant no-experience cover letter would be when Maxime uses her knowledge and Koha to build a digital library that won the hearts of hundreds of users within a few months. Similarly, let that profound project and its impact take center stage in your piece to showcase your adaptability and success potential.
Related cover letter examples
How to Write an Impressive Librarian Cover Letter
When asked, most people think that being a librarian simply revolves around books. While recommending things to read is definitely part of the job, you know that there’s more to it—as do recruiters. On your job hunt, you’ll find listings that are focused on collection management, database optimization, or even community outreach.
To show that you’re the right person for the job, always write a cover letter to match the job description to a T. Research the library before you apply and include job skills and work experiences relevant to that position instead of just any librarian role.
Captivate them with a strong intro
Imagine that a customer comes into your library and asks you for a specific book, but they don’t know the title, the author, or the plot.
Now, imagine that you’re applying for a job and follow that same approach. In the first scenario, you’d have no choice but to try to help the patron, but in a job application, the recruiter would discard your resume because it’d show that you didn’t do your homework.
Avoiding this fate is actually really simple. Start your librarian cover letter with a strong intro that addresses the recipient by name, and then follow up with an intro paragraph that expresses why you’re the right candidate for the role.
Pick out a couple of skills from the job description, such as collection development and archiving, and express why you’re eager to put those abilities to the test at that particular library.
This is an example of someone who didn’t do their homework. Cookie-cutter cover letters, just don’t cut it anymore—keep that in mind.
That fell flat…
I saw your job listing on Indeed and I wanted to apply. I’m a hard worker and need a job right away.
This works much better. The candidate instantly shows that they’re up-to-date with all the latest trends in library tech.
Fantastic!
As an ardent advocate for public access to knowledge with a record of leveraging innovative library technologies, I stand at a compelling intersection of traditional librarianship and modern information management. This unique blend of passion and prowess positions me to contribute substantially to the San Antonio Public Library’s mission of serving as a thriving hub for lifelong learning.
Show off your expertise in the body paragraphs
In any story, the beginning needs to hook the reader, and the ending needs to deliver a satisfying conclusion, but the in-between parts make it memorable. Your cover letter works the same way.
In the body paragraphs, dive into what makes you the right fit for the role and add metrics to support your claims. Talk about library-specific software and skills, and then elaborate on how you used them to your advantage.
For instance, don’t just say that you worked with children. Instead, talk about your experience in program development and how you initiated and led a children’s literacy program, leading to a 25% increase in library attendance.
That’s impressive!
At Columbia College Chicago, I handled metadata management for approximately four thousand records within two years. By creating and maintaining accurate records, I enhanced searchability by 34%, increasing the accessibility of diverse materials.
Make them call you with your closing paragraph
In the closing paragraph, you can underscore that you’re the right librarian for this job. To do that, do some digging on the library website or even visit it in person to try to gauge its values and core mission.
Libraries are more than just places that lend out books—they’re pillars of the local community that bring entertainment, education, and genuine connection to those who visit them. Make sure that your closing paragraph reflects that you fully understand what this library is all about.
As an example, if you’re applying to work at a library that runs a book club for seniors, express how important it is to you to help your local community find joy and company through similar programs.
This closer is generic and doesn’t do anything to show that the person has the right skill set. Don’t do this.
Try again…
I like reading sometimes, especially sci-fi, so I hope I can work at your library.
Now, this is much, much better. The candidate clearly highlights what they will bring to the role.
You’ll get the job!
I’m excited about bringing this holistic understanding of library systems to The University of Chicago Libraries. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to discussing this opportunity further.
It helps, but don’t just list library software that you’re familiar with. Instead, highlight how you used it to make an impact, such as by saying that you assisted over 1,000 patrons with research inquiries using JSTOR and ProQuest.
Librarians have strong research skills, so put yours to the test and do some digging! Check out the library’s website, social media, and the job description to try to find the name. Alternatively, visit it or call it to try and find out. If it’s impossible, you can use “Dear Hiring Manager.”
Lean into your education and any similar jobs you might have held in the past. For example, if you were a research assistant at your college, there’s a lot of skill overlap, from data analysis to database management.
