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Digital Library Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Archivist

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Enter and update records in archival management systems and digital repositories used by the National Agricultural Library. * Assist with quality control and metadata normalization to improve ...

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Digital Library Assistant information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Digital Library Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Digital Library Assistant, you need a background in library science or information management, along with strong organizational and research skills. Familiarity with digital cataloging systems, integrated library systems (ILS), and metadata standards like MARC or Dublin Core is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and excellent communication help you effectively support both patrons and staff in digital environments. These skills ensure the efficient management, accessibility, and delivery of digital resources to users.

How does a Digital Library Assistant typically support both patrons and staff in a digital library environment?

A Digital Library Assistant plays a key role in helping patrons access digital resources, troubleshoot technical issues, and navigate online catalogs or databases. They also assist staff by managing digital collections, ensuring metadata accuracy, and supporting digital content uploads. Collaboration is common, as Digital Library Assistants often work closely with librarians, IT staff, and outreach professionals to maintain smooth library operations and enhance user experience. This role offers opportunities to develop technical skills and gain a deeper understanding of digital information management, which can support future career growth in library science or digital curation.

What are Digital Library Assistants?

Digital Library Assistants are professionals who help manage, organize, and provide access to digital collections in libraries. They assist with tasks such as cataloging digital resources, maintaining databases, helping patrons navigate electronic materials, and troubleshooting access issues. Digital Library Assistants also support librarians in digitization projects and ensure digital content is accessible and properly archived. Their role is vital in today’s libraries as more resources move online.

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

AspectDigital Library AssistantLibrary Technician
CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationAssociate's degree in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentDigital collections, online platforms, computer systemsPhysical and digital library spaces, cataloging areas
Employer & IndustryPublic, academic, or special libraries with digital collectionsPublic, academic, or special libraries handling physical and digital resources
Common TasksManaging digital collections, assisting users online, digital catalogingCataloging, shelving, assisting patrons, managing physical collections

While both roles support library operations, the Digital Library Assistant focuses on digital collections and online services, whereas the Library Technician handles physical resources and cataloging tasks. Both positions often require similar educational backgrounds and work in similar library environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Digital Library jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Digital Library jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Digital Library Assistant jobs in Washington? For Digital Library Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Digital Library Assistant jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Digital Library Assistant jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Digital Library Assistant jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Digital Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Digital Library Assistant job openings in Washington as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Library Assistant (Onsite)

$25 - $30/hr

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Library Assistant

Location: Washington, DC (On-Site) Employment Type: Part-Time (15-20 hours per week)

Compensation: $25 to $30 per hour

About Middle East Institute

Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is the oldest Washington-based institution dedicated solely to the study of the Middle East. It is a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, educational and professional development services, and a hub for engaging with the region's arts and culture.

Position Summary

The Library Assistant plays a key role in supporting the management and development of the library's collection, providing essential library services to patrons and staff, and coordinating the digitization of the Held Archive. This position requires a strong foundation in library science, cataloging standards, and digital resource management. The Library Assistant will also assist in training and supervising interns and will contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of library operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Oversee daily library operations and supervise library interns.
  • Provide circulation, reference, and reader's advisory services to patrons and staff.
  • Maintain and manage the library's collection of books, periodicals, records, DVDs, and other materials.
  • Support the digitization efforts of the Held Archive, ensuring metadata standards are met.
  • Perform cataloging and classification using contemporary bibliographic standards including MARC, RDA Toolkit, and Library of Congress subject headings.
  • Manage bibliographic records using Koha open-source library software.
  • Compile and submit statistical reports related to library usage and collections.
  • Evaluate and assist in developing library programs and services.
  • Train and mentor interns in library processes, cataloging, and administrative tasks.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, patrons, and external partners.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications and Skills
  • A bachelor's degree in library science from an ALA-accredited institution.
  • Experience working in an academic, research, or special library setting.
  • In-depth knowledge of cataloging and classification systems, including MARC and non-MARC metadata standards.
  • Proficiency with Koha open-source cataloging system is essential.
  • Familiarity with library administration and collection management.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, pay attention to detail, and think critically.
  • Proficiency in either Turkish, Arabic, or Farsi is required.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with diverse populations and across departments.
  • Demonstrated capacity to train and evaluate support staff or interns.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
  • This position typically operates in an office and library setting.
  • Must be able to lift and move library materials (up to 25 lbs.).
  • May require occasional evening or weekend work.

Disclaimer: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Duties may be subject to change based on organizational needs.