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Academic Library Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Briar Cliff University

Librarian

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

As assistant dean, they will lead the University's efforts to move the library forward by working in conjunction with the provost and senior academic leadership to design and deliver data-informed ...

University of Iowa

Collections Care Associate

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$17 - $23.50/hr

Maintain emergency response kits throughout all library locations. Assist as needed with book ... an academic or research library environment Ability to train, supervise, or coordinate work of ...

University of Iowa

Collections Care Associate

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$17 - $23.50/hr

Maintain emergency response kits throughout all library locations. • Assist as needed with book ... working in an academic or research library environment • Ability to train, supervise, or ...

Grow Clinton

Associate Dean of STEM

Clinton, IA · On-site

$79K - $98K/yr

... * Assist with faculty orientations, including adjunct, and provide support for technology needs and trainings. * Provide support for the academic support functions for the college such as Library ...

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Academic Library Assistant information

What is an academic library assistant?

Academic Library Assistants are support staff who help manage the daily operations of college or university libraries. They assist students and faculty in finding and borrowing materials, organize and shelve books, maintain records, and may help with cataloging or interlibrary loan requests. Their role is essential in ensuring the library runs smoothly and patrons have access to the resources they need for research and study.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an academic library assistant?

To thrive as an Academic Library Assistant, you generally need organizational skills, attention to detail, familiarity with library practices, and at least a high school diploma or an associate degree. Experience with library cataloging software, integrated library systems (ILS), and digital databases is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and teamwork skills help you effectively support students and faculty. These skills ensure efficient library operations, positive patron experiences, and the accurate management of resources in an academic environment.

What are some common challenges academic library assistants face in managing multiple requests from students, faculty, and staff?

Academic Library Assistants often juggle diverse tasks such as assisting with research queries, checking out materials, and supporting library events, which can lead to a fast-paced and occasionally demanding environment. Balancing these responsibilities while maintaining accuracy and offering helpful service can be challenging, especially during peak times like midterms or finals. Effective time management, clear communication, and familiarity with library systems are crucial for success. Collaborating closely with librarians and other staff helps distribute workloads and ensures patrons' needs are met efficiently.

What is the difference between Academic Library Assistant vs Library Technician?

AspectAcademic Library AssistantLibrary Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer post-secondary educationPost-secondary certificate or associate degree in library technology
Work EnvironmentAcademic libraries, educational institutionsLibraries, archives, educational settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting patrons, shelving, cataloging, basic administrative tasksProcessing materials, maintaining catalog systems, technical support

The main difference between an Academic Library Assistant and a Library Technician lies in their education requirements and technical responsibilities. Academic Library Assistants typically perform clerical and patron service tasks, while Library Technicians handle more technical cataloging and processing duties. Both roles are essential in supporting library operations within educational institutions.

Academic Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Library Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Librarian

Sioux City, IA • On-site

Briar Cliff University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Briar Cliff Universityexternal

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description


University Librarian and Assistant Dean

Briar Cliff University seeks to fill the position of University Librarian and Assistant Dean, beginning no later than January 4, 2027. This is a 12-month exempt administrative position in academic affairs reporting to the Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. The University Librarian is a non-tenure-eligible, ex officio member of the Faculty.

The University Librarian provides strategic leadership for all functions of the Bishop Mueller Library at Briar Cliff University and serves as the library’s chief administrative officer. They develop and administer a comprehensive strategic library plan that supports the mission and goals of the University and serve as the primary advocate for the library with the ability to articulate and implement a vision for the future of library services.

As assistant dean, they will lead the University’s efforts to move the library forward by working in conjunction with the provost and senior academic leadership to design and deliver data-informed and student-focused academic library programming that reflects Briar Cliff’s Franciscan values of service, caring, and openness.

The University Librarian will design and deliver for-credit research literacy courses (up to 6 credit hours per academic year), will teach research literacy sessions at the request of faculty across the disciplines, and will work with faculty and the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning to help students understand the use of artificial intelligence in their studies.

The successful candidate should have a Master of Library and Information Science degree from an ALA-accredited program or equivalent, 3 – 5 years of academic library experience with a variety of leadership responsibilities, and a current knowledge of professional library standards, practices, and procedures.

Founded in 1930 and rooted in the Catholic Franciscan tradition, Briar Cliff University is a vibrant, values-based community dedicated to academic excellence and personal growth. Located on the scenic Loess Hills overlooking the Missouri River, "The Cliff" maintains a tight-knit learning environment with a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Academically, the university offers over 30 undergraduate programs and several respected graduate degrees, including recognized programs in Nursing, Physical Therapy, and Sport Management. Our commitment to the student-athlete experience is equally robust; as members of the NAIA and GPAC, the Chargers have earned 19 conference championships and were recently honored as an NAIA Champions of Character Gold Level Institution.

A city of 85,000 stretching across the corners of Iowa, South Dakota, and Nebraska (referred to as “Siouxland”), Sioux City is nestled along the Sioux River approximately 90 miles from both Omaha, NE, and Sioux Falls, SD. The city offers a vibrant, friendly community with a cost of living that is attractive for families and individuals alike. Sioux City possesses a bustling riverfront, a lively downtown arts and entertainment scene, numerous parks, and rich cultural opportunities, combining small-town charm with the amenities of a larger metropolitan area. As a regional hub for business and culture, the city features over 50 parks, the historic Orpheum Theatre, Tyson Events Center, and a mix of national retailers and award-winning local favorites. Sioux City has twice been named an “All-America City,” highlighting its strong community and significant quality of life.

Interested candidates should visit the Briar Cliff University employment website at https://www.briarcliff.edu/about/our-employees/careers for more information and to apply. Candidates should submit:

· A letter of interest describing the alignment of the candidate's qualifications with the position requirements

· Current curriculum vita

· Graduate and undergraduate transcripts (unofficial copies are fine at this point)

· Contact information (only) for three professional references


Applications received by September 1 will receive full consideration, and applications will continue to be reviewed until the position is filled. Any final offer is contingent on a successful background check. If you have any questions about this position, please email provost@briarcliff.edu.