RESUME MISTAKES
Avoid These Common Librarian Resume Mistakes
Turn your library experience into a compelling story that lands interviews
How This Page Helps
Help librarians identify and correct resume pitfalls to showcase their expertise and improve ATS compatibility.
Spot vague job descriptions
Eliminate outdated library jargon
Showcase digital literacy
Align with modern library standards
Optimize layout for ATS
Common Mistakes That Kill Your Chances
Each mistake includes why it hurts, how to fix it, and before/after examples
Using generic job titlesMEDIUM
Why it hurts
- Hiring managers can’t see your specific role
- ATS may miss relevant keywords
How to fix
- Replace with precise titles like 'Reference Librarian' or 'Digital Collections Coordinator'
- Include department and scope
❌ Before
Librarian, City Library
✓ After
Reference Librarian, City Library – Adult Services
ATS Tip
Match the title to common industry keywords.
Detection Rules
title contains generic term 'Librarian' without qualifier
no department mentioned
Resumly Tip
Add a qualifier to your title to improve keyword density.
Listing duties instead of achievementsHIGH
Why it hurts
- Doesn’t demonstrate impact
- ATS looks for action verbs and results
How to fix
- Start bullet points with strong verbs
- Quantify outcomes (e.g., % increase in circulation)
❌ Before
Managed the circulation desk.
✓ After
Streamlined circulation processes, reducing patron wait time by 20%.
ATS Tip
Include measurable results to trigger keyword matches.
Detection Rules
bullets start with 'Managed', 'Responsible for' without numbers
lack of metrics
Resumly Tip
Convert duties into results-focused statements.
Omitting digital skillsMEDIUM
Why it hurts
- Libraries now prioritize tech proficiency
- ATS filters for keywords like 'metadata', 'digital archives'
How to fix
- Add a dedicated 'Technical Skills' section
- Mention specific platforms (e.g., OCLC, Alma, LibGuides)
❌ Before
Experienced with library software.
✓ After
Proficient in OCLC WorldCat, Alma, and LibGuides for digital resource management.
ATS Tip
Use exact software names as keywords.
Detection Rules
no mention of specific systems
generic skill statements
Resumly Tip
List concrete tools to boost relevance.
Incorrect date formattingLOW
Why it hurts
- ATS may misread dates
- Hiring managers prefer consistency
How to fix
- Use month-year format (MM/YYYY)
- Keep chronological order
❌ Before
2015 – 2020
✓ After
06/2015 – 08/2020
ATS Tip
Standardize dates to MM/YYYY.
Detection Rules
dates written as years only
mixed formats
Resumly Tip
Uniform dates improve parsing.
Using a one‑page resume for senior librarian rolesMEDIUM
Why it hurts
- Limits space to showcase leadership
- ATS may truncate content
How to fix
- Expand to two pages if >10 years experience
- Prioritize recent, relevant achievements
❌ Before
One-page resume for 15-year career.
✓ After
Two-page resume highlighting strategic projects and management experience.
ATS Tip
Ensure key sections appear on first page.
Detection Rules
total length < 1 page with >10 years experience
missing leadership bullets
Resumly Tip
Adjust length to reflect career depth.
Formatting Guidelines
File Types: PDF, DOCX
Sections: Contact Information, Professional Summary, Core Competencies, Professional Experience, Education, Certifications, Technical Skills, Professional Affiliations
Naming: FirstName_LastName_Librarian.pdf
Consistency
Length: 1–2 pages for early‑career, up to 2 pages for senior roles
Date Format: MM/YYYY
Location Format: City, State
Resume Quality Checklist
- Use specific job titles
- Show measurable achievements
- Include relevant library software
- Standardize dates
- Tailor summary to the target library type
- Proofread for spelling and grammar
- Save as PDF with proper file name
ATS Alignment Guide
Common ATS Systems: iCIMS, Workday, Taleo, Greenhouse, Lever
Keyword Strategy: reference services, collection development, digital archives, OCLC, metadata, patron engagement
Heading Format: Use standard headings like 'Professional Experience' and 'Education'
Quick Fix Workshop
Paste your current resume text
- Replace generic titles with specific ones
- Convert duty statements into achievement bullets
- Add quantified results
- Insert library‑specific software keywords
- Standardize date format
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