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Entry Level Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American University Library is one of the four founding institutions thatestablishedthe Diversity Alliance member universities. The purpose of the resident program is to bring entry-level librarians ...

Library Assistant I

Sylva, NC · On-site

$30K/yr

Position Overview An employee in this entry-level position performs public service duties necessary to assist library patrons and library staff, processes and prepares materials for circulation ...

Librarian I

Newport, OR · On-site

$4.9K - $6.0K/mo

Our library is looking for an enthusiastic entry-level Librarian to join our team and help shape exceptional patron experiences across all service areas. What You'll Do In this role, you'll rotate ...

Librarian I

Newport, OR

$4.9K - $6.0K/mo

Our library is looking for an enthusiastic entry-level Librarian to join our team and help shape exceptional patron experiences across all service areas. What You'll Do In this role, you'll rotate ...

Library Assistant I

Sylva, NC · On-site

$30K/yr

Non-Exempt Position Overview An employee in this entry-level position performs public service duties necessary to assist library patrons and library staff, processes and prepares materials for ...

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Entry Level Library information

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How much do entry level library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level library in the United States is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect in an entry-level library position?

In an entry-level library role, you will typically assist with checking books in and out, reshelving materials, and helping patrons locate resources. You may also be responsible for maintaining the organization of the library, processing new acquisitions, and supporting library programs or events. Collaboration with other staff members is common, especially when assisting with community outreach or technology support. This role provides a strong foundation for understanding library operations and can open doors to more specialized positions in the future.

What are entry-level library jobs?

Entry-level library jobs are positions within libraries that require minimal prior experience and typically focus on supporting daily operations. These roles often include tasks such as shelving books, assisting patrons with locating materials, checking items in and out, and helping maintain an organized library environment. Entry-level positions are ideal for those new to library work and can serve as a stepping stone toward more specialized or advanced roles within the library field. Common job titles include Library Assistant, Library Aide, and Circulation Clerk. Most of these jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is frequently provided.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Library Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Library Assistant, you need organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring familiarity with library operations. Basic proficiency with library catalog systems, databases, and office software like Microsoft Office is often required. Strong customer service, communication, and teamwork skills help you assist patrons and collaborate with staff effectively. These abilities ensure smooth library operations, positive user experiences, and efficient resource management.

What is the difference between Entry Level Library vs Library Assistant?

AspectEntry Level LibraryLibrary Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer associate degreeHigh school diploma; some positions may require coursework in library science
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries; customer service and administrative tasksPublic, academic, or special libraries; assisting patrons and managing materials
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, community centersLibraries, educational institutions, government agencies

Both roles serve in library settings with similar environments, but 'Library Assistant' often implies more specific responsibilities or experience. Entry Level Library positions are typically the starting point for those interested in library work, with minimal experience required. Understanding these differences can help job seekers target the right roles based on their qualifications and career goals.

More about Entry Level Library jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Library jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Library job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs? The most popular types of Library jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Library jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Library jobs include:
Resident Librarian

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Department:

University Library Faculty

Time Type:

Full time

FLSA Status:

Exempt

Job Description:

American University Library invites early career librarians to apply for its Resident Librarian Program. Participants will be appointed at the rank of Assistant Librarian (term faculty) with a two-year contract that is potentially renewable for oneadditionalyear dependent upon funding and performance. Two positions are available.The residency is designed to provide an immersion into academic librarianship, with an emphasis on information literacy instruction and research support and including opportunities to explore other areas of interest. Funding will be provided to support professional engagement at the national level. Through the experience and mentoringacquiredbyparticipatingin the Residency Librarian Program, individuals will be able todemonstrateskills at the professional level, will be able to develop a professional network, and will be prepared for future career opportunities.

The Residency Librarian Program is part of the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Residency Program. American University Library is one of the four founding institutions thatestablishedthe Diversity Alliance member universities. The purpose of the resident program is to bring entry-level librarians into the profession, to engage them in professional experience and service at American University, to provide mentorship through their residency experience and in building their research and professional service agenda, and ultimately, to prepare them for a career in academic librarianship.

Responsibilities

As a member of the Research, Teaching and Learning division within AU Library, the Resident Librarians will teach information literacy classes--especially in conjunction with the Writing Studies Program--and provide generalist research and reference assistance services to a variable user population from many disciplines and backgrounds through chat and in personal research appointments. They will work with colleagues in the Research, Teaching, and Learning (RTL) Division to support the faculty and information literacy needs of the Writing Studies Program, other academic departments as requested, and research support initiatives at the University Library.Residents will learn and integratenew technologiesinto the instruction process,including addressing AI literacy,and willcontribute to collection development and collection assessment as requested. They will prepareLibGuides, onlinetutorialsand other relevant reference tools in support of the university community. As faculty members, Residents will activelyparticipatein faculty governance and service to the profession. Over the course of the academic year, some evening and weekend hours will berequired.

Requirements

  • American Library Association (ALA) accredited master's degree awarded between December2024to August 2026

  • Demonstrated potential to developexpertiseas a reference and instruction librarian (through coursework, pre-professional experience, etc.)

  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively

  • Ability to work in a collaborative environment as well as independently

  • Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion

  • Demonstrated understanding of the educational mission of a research university

Preferred Experiences

  • Public service experience

  • Experience in a research-oriented environment

Salary

$55,000 - $70,000

American University Library

American University Libraryserves the AU community through a collection of more than 1,700,000 print and electronic book titles and 180,000 media and sound recordings. Notable collections include a branch music library, a strong visual media collection, special collections and university archives, a K-12 curriculum materials center, and partner collections across campus including the Career Center, the Center for Language Exploration, Acquisition, and Research, and the Visual Resource Center. AU Libraryhasaffiliate collections at the Washington College of Law and at the Wesley Theological Seminary. The AU Library collection totals over 184,000 journal subscriptions in all subjects. TheLibraryhas15library faculty,63full-time staff and other professionals, and about 120student assistants. The library's budget is about $20million. The American University Library is an active member of the Washington Research Library Consortium (WRLC), and it holds membership in SPARC, the Patriot League LibrariesGroupand the University Libraries Group.American University Library is a Founding Member of the Association of College and Research Libraries Diversity Alliance.

American University

Chartered by Congress in 1893 andlocatedin Washington, D.C., American University is a student-centeredR-1research institution with highly ranked schools and colleges, internationally renowned faculty, and anemphasis on creating meaningful change in the world.AU'sstudents distinguish themselves by their service, leadership, and ability to rethink global and domestic challenges and opportunities. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, many with an international focus, to over11,300students. Its proximity to centers of technology, politics, justice, world affairs, communication, science, business, and the arts in the Washington, D.C. area enhances the learning environment.Learn more about American University atwww.american.eduand about the University Library atwww.american.edu/library

Should you have any questions, please reach out to the Search Chair,Shaunda Vasudev. Reviewof applications will beginimmediatelyand continue until the position is filled.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package.Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

Other Details

  • Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.

  • Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.

  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

  • American University is an E-Verify employer.

Current American University Employees

American University current employees must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoWorkdayand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, emailtheworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.