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Associate Librarian Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

University of South Carolina

Law Librarian

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $93K/yr

The Librarian reports to the Associate Director of the Law Library and works closely with the other ... library faculty and staff. Required Education and Experience * J.D. from an ABA accredited law ...

Cornerstone

Research Librarian

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

The Research Librarian will have primary responsibility for providing research and reference ... the Associate Director, Information Resources and Senior Director, Information Resources.

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All JobsAssociate Librarian JobsAssociate Librarian Jobs in California

Associate Librarian information

See California salary details

$25.7K

$61.2K

$99.2K

How much do associate librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate librarian in California is $61,244.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,900.00 and $71,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate librarian?

Associate Librarians are professional staff members in libraries who assist with a wide range of services, including helping patrons locate materials, managing collections, and supporting library programs. They often work under the supervision of a senior librarian and may have specialized roles such as reference, cataloging, or instruction. Associate Librarians typically hold a degree in library science or a related field and play a key role in ensuring library operations run smoothly. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the size and type of the library.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate librarian?

To thrive as an Associate Librarian, you need a solid understanding of information organization, research methodologies, and library science principles, often supported by a master's degree in library science or information studies. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital cataloging tools, and database management is typically required. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills help associate librarians engage effectively with patrons and colleagues. These competencies are essential for delivering accurate information, supporting diverse user needs, and maintaining efficient library operations.

What are some of the main challenges an associate librarian might face during a typical week?

Associate Librarians often juggle a variety of responsibilities, such as assisting patrons with research, managing collections, and supporting library programs. One common challenge is balancing time between direct patron service and behind-the-scenes tasks like cataloging or developing digital resources. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing technology and ensuring equitable access to information can be demanding. Collaboration with colleagues in outreach or instructional initiatives is frequent, requiring strong communication and organizational skills.

What is the difference between Associate Librarian vs Librarian?

AspectAssociate LibrarianLibrarian
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)Master's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries; entry to mid-level rolesPublic, academic, or special libraries; more experienced roles
Employer UsageOften an entry-level or supporting role within librariesFull professional role with broader responsibilities
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Associate Librarian and a Librarian lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Librarians typically hold entry to mid-level positions requiring a master's degree in library science, focusing on supporting library operations. Librarians usually have more experience and take on broader, more complex responsibilities within the library. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the Librarian role often involves greater independence and decision-making authority.

What are the most commonly searched types of Librarian jobs in California?

The most popular types of Librarian jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Associate Librarian jobs?

Cities in California with the most Associate Librarian job openings:

Associate Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Librarian job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,244 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Library - Librarian I

Library Systems & Services LLC

Hemet, CA • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
JOB SUMMARY
The Librarian 1 is the entry level position to the Librarian job family. The Librarian 1 works alongside members of the Library Management Team and with other key stakeholders to develop policies, procedures, workflows and sustainable approaches for a variety of library programs and services. With more senior Librarian or Director oversight, works both independently and with other staff to execute small to large scale projects. Librarians are responsible for organizing and managing all resources in the library and may supervise Junior Library Associates.
Hours per Week: 40
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITES
An individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily.
  • Coordinates and executes a variety of programs and initiatives for the library.
  • Evaluates basic statistical data and prepares basic statistical reports and surveys for the library, LS&S management and other entities i.e. local government/customers.
  • Processes, creates and edits bibliographic and item records for the library catalog.
  • Maintains and updates the library social media presence and webpage and may support social media of other branches.
  • Provides reference and computer help to patrons.
  • Serves on committees and at times may serve as the chairperson for committees.
  • May handle opening and closing responsibilities, counting money, completing daily cash reports.
  • Be responsible for the collection management process.
  • Be a proficient reader advisor.
  • May supervise junior Library Associates which includes managing performance, evaluation, interviewing/hiring, training and approving timesheets.
  • Know and understand the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement and Freedom to View Statement, recognizing that freedom of access is a fundamental tenet of a public library. In addition to these freedoms, support client discretion of materials available at your local library(ies)
  • Follow all legal and policy requirements related to patron privacy and custodianship of patron records.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
JOB REQUIREMENTS
An individual should possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed and meet the amount of education, training and/or work experience required.
  • MLS or MLIS degree required
  • One year librarian experience preferred
  • Proficiency in MS Office suite including Excel, Word and PowerPoint
  • Knowledge of online library databases and services
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Excellent communication skills- both verbal and written
  • Able to work a flexible schedule including weekdays, evenings and weekends

Note: If you are currently enrolled in an ALA-accredited MLS or MLIS program but have not yet completed the degree, you may be considered for this role as a Librarian Intern. The hourly pay rate for Librarian Intern is $25.00 per hour.
Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to move from place to place within the location; lifting of items weighing up to (25) pounds and occasional up to 35 pounds such as files, books, stacks of paper, and other materials.
  • Ability to sit for long periods of time and to maintain focus on projects such as computer screens or detailed paperwork.

Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Retirement Plan (401k)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness Resources

EEO STATEMENT
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.
Salary Description
28.00

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