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Librarian Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Technical Services Manager

Waukee, IA · On-site

$74K - $87K/yr

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & SUCCESS FACTORS ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (Order of Essential Functions does not indicate importance of functions.) Works with Assistant Library Director to implement a strategic ...

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 repair, mending, and other collection care duties. Update and maintain Environmental Health and Safety ...

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 repair, mending, and other collection care duties. • Update and maintain Environmental Health and ...

Administrative Assistant

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

The Administrative Assistant provides highlevel administrative, operational, and digital support to ... Develop, organize, and maintain SharePoint sites, document libraries, and team resources to improve ...

... library, providing quality control by checking dates, maintaining the cleanliness of the pantry areas, and supporting staff with general organization. ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED * Assist ...

Food Pantry Volunteer

Marion, IA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... library, providing quality control by checking dates, maintaining the cleanliness of the pantry areas, and supporting staff with general organization. ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED * Assist ...

Showing results 21-40

Librarian Assistant information

What is an assistant librarian?

An assistant librarian works closely with the main librarian to manage a library. As an assistant librarian your job involves interacting closely with library guests, working at the circulation or help desk, and answering questions. Other common duties include managing library equipment, maintaining archives, and organizing new materials. The career requires that you have an education in library science, typically at least a master’s degree, and experience as a library technician. Additional qualifications include strong communication skills and the ability to work with people from a diverse range of backgrounds. A love of books and reading is helpful.

What is a librarian assistant?

Librarian Assistants, also known as library assistants or library clerks, support librarians in the daily operations of a library. Their duties often include checking in and out library materials, shelving books, helping patrons find resources, maintaining records, and organizing collections. They may also assist with library events, technology support, and other administrative tasks. Librarian Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the library runs smoothly and remains a welcoming environment for the community.

What does a librarian assistant do?

A librarian assistant is responsible for performing all clerical duties within a library. Similar to a library technician, you help individuals select materials that are needed for education purposes or providing research support. You also assist people in checking books in an out of the library. This job requires computer and administrative skills and customer service experience. You must be able to answer basic questions and refer people to the appropriate area in the library.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a librarian assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Librarian Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library cataloging systems, databases, and circulation software is important for daily operations. Excellent customer service, communication, and teamwork skills help you assist patrons and support library staff effectively. These abilities ensure smooth library operations and a positive experience for visitors and staff alike.

What are some common challenges faced by librarian assistants in managing library resources?

Librarian Assistants often encounter challenges such as keeping the library collection organized, assisting with the integration of new technologies, and managing high volumes of patron requests, especially during peak hours. They must balance routine tasks like shelving and cataloging with helping visitors locate materials and providing basic research assistance. Staying adaptable and maintaining a strong attention to detail can help Librarian Assistants effectively manage these demands while ensuring a positive experience for library users.

How hard is it to get a job as a librarian assistant?

Getting a job as a librarian assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring postsecondary coursework in library science or related fields. Competition can vary depending on the location and library size, but relevant skills such as organization, customer service, and familiarity with library systems can improve chances of employment.

How hard is it to get a job as an assistant librarian?

Securing an assistant librarian position typically requires a relevant degree such as a master's in library science or information studies, along with good organizational and communication skills. Competition can vary depending on the location and the size of the library, but having relevant experience or certifications can improve chances of employment.

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

The most popular types of Librarian jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Librarian Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Librarian Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Librarian Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Librarian Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Librarian Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Patron Services Support Staff - Fulltime

City of Marion

Marion, IA • On-site

$19.46/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Deadline for applications is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026.
JOB INFORMATION
Job Title: Patron Services Support Staff
Department: Library
Bargaining Unit: Non-Bargaining
Reports to Position: Patron Services Manager
Pay Grade: Grade 2
Location: Marion Public Library
Overtime Status: Hourly - Paid Overtime
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
JOB SUMMARY
This is a full-time, paraprofessional public customer service specialist position that requires knowledge of professional practice and independent judgement in its application, as well as the application of prescribed procedures and methods. The Patron Services Support Staff member assists the library's diverse patron population at the full range of public service desks throughout the library and on the Bookmobile, and undertakes additional projects related to library services as required. Scheduled hours may vary weekly, including evening and weekend shifts. The Patron Services Support Staff member reports to the Patron Services Manager and works under the supervision of the Patron Services Leads.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED
The primary responsibility of this position is to serve patrons at the Information (Circulation) desk and other public desks, including the Reference desk, Technology desk, Children's desk, Teen desk, and at the Drive-Up window, as well as periodic work on the library's Bookmobile. Desk duties include but are not limited to:
  • Identifying and retrieving collection and account information needed by patrons.
  • Assisting patrons with access to the library's physical and digital collections.
  • Conducting patron record queries, placing holds, facilitating materials transfer between library networks, and assisting patrons with placing ILL requests.
  • Creating new patron accounts.
  • Mediating and resolving patron disputes, complaints, and inquiries related to library policies and procedures.
  • Facilitating patron access to library technologies and online services, including troubleshooting printers, copiers, computers and online resources.
  • Providing Readers' Advisory.
  • Processing, sorting and routing library materials.
  • Handling cash register transactions and resolving patron charges.
  • Upholding library policies in all areas of the library and on the Bookmobile.

Other responsibilities and tasks will include:
  • Responsibility for working with Youth Services staff to support teen patrons, and shifts managing and/or working in the Teen Room and Area, including at peak times.
  • Supporting the Patron Services Manager and Leads in training, mentoring, and coaching part-time Patron Services staff.
  • Internal and external continuing professional development activities.
  • Participating in library staff meetings and training sessions.
  • Providing occasional support for MarkerSpace-related activities and programs.
  • Providing minor maintenance and cleaning duties as required.
  • Off-desk activities as required, including assigned projects to support library services and enhance the patron experience.

The Patron Services Support Staff member will be expected to undergo Bookmobile driving training and may be rostered to drive the Bookmobile on a contingency basis as well as register as a Notary Public and carry out notarial duties.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
  • Strong customer services skills.
  • Ability to respond to a diverse range of patron needs.
  • Act with integrity, professionalism and respect.
  • Display empathy, patience, flexibility and curiosity.
  • Communicate clearly and appropriately with patrons and peers.
  • Possess knowledge of professionally curated print and online resources and information retrieval.
  • Able to conduct reference interviews to determine patrons' information and/or other needs.
  • Familiar with fiction and non-fiction books, media and resources and popular culture references.
  • Able to use and explain standard office software, web browsers and apps.
  • Familiar with computers, printers, copiers, and personal mobile devices (e.g. e-readers, tablets, smart phones).
  • Able to work under minimum supervision, including reflecting upon own performance and being self-motivated to improve.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & PHYSICAL ABILITIES
  • Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, reach, stand, push, pull as required.
  • Physical agility, strength and dexterity necessary for handling library materials, including but not limited to retrieving, shelving, lifting, and moving library materials.
  • Ability to utilize a keyboard, mouse, and touchpad.
  • Ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
  • Interpersonal skills and cognitive flexibility to interface with a variety of internal and external customers in diverse, sometimes high-stress, situations.
  • Executive functioning skills appropriate for a busy, fast-paced environment.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Basic computer skills and familiarity with internet information retrieval are required.
  • Graduation from an accredited two-year or four-year college or university is preferred. High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • Public library experience is preferred.
  • Iowa Driving License, or able to obtain within 30 days of hire.
  • Eligible for appointment as a Notary Public in the State of Iowa.
  • Obtain Iowa State Library accreditation within 1 year of hire.

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • Works in an office environment.
  • Overtime may be required of the position depending on demand of workload.
  • The Marion Public Library is a busy, customer-focused library with a high amount of use by patrons of all ages. Patrons have high expectations regarding the quality and efficiency of library service.
  • Evening and weekend work is required.
  • Regularly works with and has access to patron records that are confidential according to the Code of Iowa.

REQUIRED BACKGROUND CHECKS
  • Sex Offender Registry
  • Criminal Background Checks
  • Driving Records Check
  • Drug Screening