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Library Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$19.75 - $20.75/hr

Ensure test materials are returned to instructors' mailboxes at closing time. Assist with proctoring make-up final exams and PSATs. * Assist the Library Assistant with supervising students in the ...

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Library Assistant information

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$8

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How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in California is $18.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Library Assistants?

Library Assistants are support staff who help ensure the smooth operation of libraries. They assist patrons with finding materials, check books in and out, organize and shelve library items, and help maintain library records. Their duties often include answering basic questions, processing new materials, and supporting librarians in daily tasks. Library Assistants play an important role in making the library a welcoming and organized space for everyone.

What is the difference between Library Assistant vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary AssistantLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer post-secondary courseworkPost-secondary education or certification in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic, school, or academic libraries; routine tasks assisting patrons and organizing materialsMore technical tasks, cataloging, managing digital resources, supporting library systems
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in public and educational libraries; entry-level positionFound in larger libraries, academic institutions, and specialized settings; requires more technical skills

The main difference between a Library Assistant and a Library Technician lies in their responsibilities and required qualifications. Library Assistants handle routine patron service and organization tasks, often with minimal formal education. In contrast, Library Technicians perform more technical duties like cataloging and managing digital resources, requiring additional training or certification. Both roles are essential in supporting library operations, but Library Technicians typically have a higher level of technical expertise and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Library Assistants face, and how can they effectively handle them?

Library Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of patron requests, maintaining accurate organization of materials, and adapting to new library technologies. To handle these effectively, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, practice clear communication with patrons and colleagues, and stay up to date with library management systems. Regular training and seeking support from senior staff can also help Library Assistants navigate busy periods and technology updates with confidence.

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

To thrive as a Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring library science coursework or experience. Familiarity with library cataloging systems, integrated library software (like Koha or Aleph), and basic computer applications is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and teamwork abilities help Library Assistants effectively support patrons and library staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient library operations, ensuring accurate resource management, and providing a welcoming environment for users.

What Does a Library Assistant Do?

Library assistants support the head librarian in operating the library and maintaining its materials. Other responsibilities include cataloging books, movies, audio resources, reference materials, slides, and microfilm. Library assistants inspect these items regularly for damage or missing pieces, especially while they are checking out resources to library patrons. As a library assistant, you must enjoy helping visitors locate materials, as well as providing technical assistance as needed. While a library assistant job does not require education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent, job seekers pursuing a career as a librarian will need a master’s degree in library science or a related field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in California? The most popular types of Library jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in California? For Library Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant I/II - Bilingual Language Skills Preferred-Bookmobile Driver Services (Extra-Help)

Library Assistant I/II - Bilingual Language Skills Preferred-Bookmobile Driver Services (Extra-Help)

County of San Mateo

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$29.99 - $39.56/hr

Other

Posted 23 days ago


County Of San Mateo rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 645 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description Do you want to be a part of an award-winning team and work with amazing people. Apply for an Extra- Help Library Assistant - Bookmobile Driver Services position with San Mateo County Libraries where together, we build meaningful connections and inspire lifelong curiosity. At San Mateo County Libraries you can make a difference in our communities through outreach.

The San Mateo County Libraries Bookmobile brings library services to residents throughout San Mateo County, including unincorporated coastal communities from Montara to Pescadero, and inland locations in La Honda, Skylonda, and Kings Mountain. The Bookmobile visits area schools and communities with a collection that includes materials for children and adults in English and Spanish. The Bookmobile also regularly supports special events, fairs, etc.

throughout the County. San Mateo County Libraries is looking for a driver for our Bookmobile, a 35' Bluebird bus with seating for one passenger. The driver, along with one other Bookmobile staff, will also offer customer service at all stops.

Because of the diversity of the communities we serve, bilingual language skills (Mandarin, Cantonese, or Spanish) are preferred. The successful candidate must be available to work a schedule that typically includes a combination of day, evening, and regular weekend shifts. The positions are part-time and extra-help and those hired will generally work between 8 and 18 hours per week.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE We are looking for an enthusiastic, customer service-oriented and flexible Library Assistant who is effective in communicating with people from a variety of backgrounds. Experience working in a library, social services, youth development, education, or early childhood setting is also highly preferred. The ideal candidate will: Possess a valid California Class B Commercial Driver's License with Air Brake endorsement.

Passenger endorsement a plus. Be flexible with a schedule that includes a combination of day, evening and weekend shifts. In addition, the ideal candidate will have the ability to Seek out opportunities to inspire with friendly customer service and actively provide opportunities for discovery, enrichment, and uplifting the community.

Contribute innovative ideas for library programs and services in the Bookmobile and throughout SMCL. Model exemplary customer service in all interactions--including in person, at a program, at outreach events, helping with library card or circulation issues, address suggestions for improvements, or otherwise ensure that our library users are uniformly welcomed. Use independent judgment to interpret and apply library policies and procedures.

Thrive in a changing environment, in initiating interactions, starting conversations, and marketing the library to the community, one person at a time. Communicate inclusivity and cultural sensitivity and be approachable in verbal, written, and non-verbal communications. Work a required schedule that includes a combination of day, evening, and weekend shifts.

SALARIES Library Assistant I: $29.99 - $33.51 hourly Library Assistant II: $31.64 - $39.56 hourly NOTE: The Bookmobile is based out of library administration in San Mateo and has routes throughout San Mateo County. This is an extra-help, at-will assignment, paid on an hourly basis. Extra-help hours are dependent on the business needs of the department and therefore work hours may vary from week to week

Extra help employees shall not exceed 1,040 hours of work per fiscal year. Extra help employees are not guaranteed permanent status at the end of the assignment. Some extra help positions may be eligible for benefits under the Affordable Care Act.

For more information, please see: ACA-Eligible Employees | County of San Mateo, CA Qualifications Knowledge of: Excellent customer service practices. Modern library services and functions. searching Internet skills.

Computers and technology. Correct written and oral English usage. Basic math.

Skill/Ability to: Deal tactfully and effectively with a wide variety of individuals. Interpret and apply library procedures and policies. Use, and teach patrons to use, a changing variety of technologies.

Plan, promote, and execute library programming. Be flexible in responding to frequent change. Direct and instruct volunteers.

Understand and follow oral and written directions. Demonstrate accuracy and attention to detail. Experience and Education: Qualified candidates possess any combination of education and experience that would likely provide them with the required knowledge, skills, and ability.

Library Assistant I: No specific education or experience is required. Library Assistant II: One year of public contact and support experience in a library. Other Requirements: Must possess a current Class B Commercial Driver's License with Air Brake endorsement.

Passenger endorsement a plus. Must be available to work a schedule that includes a combination of days, evenings, and weekends. Application/Examination This is an extra-help assignment.

Anyone may apply. Application Process: Applications will be reviewed by supervisors or managers; candidates successful in the application phase may be invited to participate in interviews. Vacancies may be filled at any time and qualified candidates are not automatically guaranteed to advance to the interview round.

Please send an email with your resume and with responses to the Supplemental Questions, to the supervisor below. Megan Gosch, Library Services Manager at gosch@smcl.org IMPORTANT: You must submit the following to be considered for this opportunity: Resume Responses to the Supplemental Questions: A valid California Class B Commercial Driver's License with an Air Brake endorsement is required to drive the Library Bookmobile. A Passenger endorsement is preferred but not required

Do you currently possess a California Class B Commercial Driver's License with an Air Brake endorsement. (Yes/No) Do you also have a Passenger endorsement. (Yes/No) If you answered 'Yes' to possessing a California Class B Commercial Driver's License, please provide the following details: License number Expiration date Describe a time you went above and beyond to provide excellent customer service.

What was the effect on the customer. Describe your professional driving experience, including relevant positions held. Because of the diverse population in San Mateo County, bilingual language skills are preferred.

(1) Please list any languages, other than English, in which you are fluent, and (2) if you have had opportunities to utilize your bilingual skills in a work setting, please describe your experience. (If you are not bilingual, please answer "n/a" to this question.) This position requires availability for weekday, weekend, and evening shifts. Does your availability align with this requirement

(Yes/No) This is a continuous recruitment which may close at any time. The final filing date will be posted 5 days in advance in the San Mateo County Human Resources Department. Apply immediately.

This recruitment is open on a continuous basis and selections may be made at any time within the process. TENTATIVE RECRUITMENT SCHEDULE Final Filing Date: Continuous About the County San Mateo County is centrally located between San Francisco, San Jose, and the East Bay. With over 750,000 residents, San Mateo is one of the largest and most diverse counties in California and serves a multitude of culturally, ethnically, and linguistically diverse communities.

The County of San Mateo, as an employer, is committed to advancing equity in order to ensure that all employees are welcomed in a safe and inclusive environment. The County seeks to hire, support, and retain employees who reflect our diverse community. We encourage applicants with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to apply.

Eighty percent of employees surveyed stated that they would recommend the County as a great place to work. San Mateo County is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels. Analyst: Sedrick Dixon (02212024) (Library Assistant I/II K009/K010).


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