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Library Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Library Clerk

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$19.43 - $25.38/hr

Assistant Library Clerk City of Mission Viejo invites applications for Assistant Library Clerk. Salary range is $19.43 - $25.38 per hour, effective July 1, 2026. Apply by 3:00 P.M., Monday, July 6, ...

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Library Assistant information

See California salary details

$8

$18

$27

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 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 do library assistants do?

Library assistants help with daily library operations, including checking out and returning books, organizing materials, assisting patrons, and maintaining the library's collection. They often use library management software and need good organizational and customer service skills. The role typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and may involve working flexible hours.

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 qualifications do you need for a library assistant?

Library assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with library systems or cataloging software, and good communication abilities are also important. Certification is not usually required but can be beneficial for advancement.

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.

Can you get a job in a library without being a librarian?

Yes, library assistants can be hired without being licensed librarians. They typically perform tasks such as shelving, checking out materials, and assisting patrons, often requiring basic customer service skills and familiarity with library systems. Certification is not usually required, but relevant training or experience can be beneficial.

How do I become a library assistant?

To become a library assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include customer service, organization, and familiarity with library systems or cataloging software; some positions may require a postsecondary certificate or coursework in library science. On-the-job training is common, and a friendly, detail-oriented attitude is important for success in this role.

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.

More about Library Assistant jobs
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 jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,350 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Library Assistant Short-Term Hourly (Temporary)

Library Assistant Short-Term Hourly (Temporary)

Antelope Valley College

Lancaster, CA • On-site

$20.94/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Salary: $20.94 Hourly
Location : 3041 W. Avenue K, Lancaster, CA
Job Type: Short Term Hourly
Job Number: RN21-52
Department: Library
Opening Date: 08/03/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
RANGE: 9
ANTICIPATED START DATE: Establishing a Pool
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS: Letter of Intent
Current Resume
Typing Certificate
WORK SCHEDULE: Short-Term-Hourly/Professional Experts - Monday - Thursday: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm Friday: 7:30 am-11:30 am (Exact work schedule to be determined by supervisor based on department needs and college hours of operation.) Temporary employees may only work up to 25 hours a week (not to exceed 100 hours per month), total not to exceed 999 hours for a total of 100 days. (Days are counted regardless of # of hours worked per day)
DESCRIPTION
Under the direction of the Dean of Instructional Resources/Extended Services, performs a wide variety of duties in the College library; assists students, faculty and others in the use of library/media equipment, materials, services and facilities; performs a variety of duties related to circulation, the reserve library, technical services and assistive technology; trains and provides work direction to student workers; performs other related responsibilities as may be assigned.
REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES
E = indicates essential duties of the position
Circulation Desk:
  • Assists students, faculty and library patrons at the library circulation desk; checks books, periodicals and other materials in and out; collects fines; removes blocks; clears liens; issues library cards; periodicals and other materials in and out according to established guidelines and procedures; answers telephone and directs calls; answers patrons queries and resolves patron issues; directs reference queries to librarian as needed; provides work direction to student assistants. (E)

Circulation Data:
  • Maintains statistical records for circulated items; runs items reports; maintains daily statistics for periodicals and pamphlets; compiles monthly and annual reports pertaining to books, periodicals, pamphlets, and circulations statistics. (E)

Assistive Technology:
  • Demonstrates operations of various equipment and software programs to faculty, staff, student workers, and disabled students including CCTV, Zoom Text*, Kurzweil* JAWS*, and computer software systems; writes and updates materials for training; maintains current knowledge of equipment; and attends training sessions as provided. (E)

Technical Services
  • Processes new and gift donated books; places jackets on books, changes item status; bookmarks created files; check items in through circulation and places on bookcart for shelving. (E)

General Duties:
  • Provides input to develop circulation policies and procedures. (E)
  • Opens and prepares library for daily use; reads and records meters; check books in and updates computer records; check change machines and photocopier to assure proper operation; turn on public access computers. (E)
  • Closes library turning off equipment; runs day end report, counts the cash box, places in safe along with the APS change bag; locks doors and disable handicap accessible mechanism. (E)
  • Trains and provides work direction and guidance to student assistants as assigned. (E)
  • Assists library technicians as needed.
  • Performs a variety of special projects or assignments as delegated.
  • Maintains library materials in assigned locations.
  • Operates a variety of library equipment including computer terminal, typewriter, printer, laminator, calculator, copier, microfilm and microfiche readers and others. (E)
  • Performs related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Any combination equivalent to: graduation from high school and one year of general library experience.
KNOWLEDGE OF:
  • Basic principles, practices, procedures and terminology of a college library.
  • Standard procedures for circulating library materials.
  • Familiarity with the operation and use of a wide variety of library equipment.
  • Basic reference sources and library materials.
  • Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
  • Record-keeping techniques.
  • Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary.
  • Proper lifting techniques.

ABILITY TO:
  • Perform library clerical work under general supervision.
  • Check books, periodicals and other materials in and out of the library.
  • Assist patrons in the selection and location of library materials.
  • Operate a variety of equipment including computer terminal, typewriter, calculator, copier, and microfiche reader/printer.
  • Add, subtract, multiply and divide quickly and accurately.
  • Type at 40 words net per minute from clear copy.
  • Train and provide work direction to others.
  • Lift, bend, stoop and reach.
  • Maintain records and prepare reports.
  • Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Understand and follow oral and written directions.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

OTHER INFORMATION
WORK DIRECTION, LEAD AND SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Trains and provides work directions to student workers.
CONTACTS: Co-workers, Bookstore staff, faculty, other departmental staff, security, students, and vendors.
PHYSICAL EFFORT:
  • Light lifting and carrying books.
  • Pushing and pulling carts.
  • Walking and standing for extended periods of time.
  • Reaching horizontally and above the shoulders to shelve and reach books.
  • Bending and kneeling.
  • Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate standard library equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Normal library environment.
APPLICATION PROCESS
This position requires the following documents to be attached to your online application in order to be considered:
  • Application
  • Current resume
  • Letter of intent that addresses minimum and desirable qualifications.
Applications with incomplete information (i.e., statements such as "see resume") or missing documents will not be considered.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
  • Each recruitment is conducted independently from others; therefore, interested parties need to submit separate complete application packages for each position they apply.
  • Applicants may be subject to passing an examination (written/technical), as appropriate to the requirements of the position.
  • Residency within a reasonable geographical area of the college may be necessary.
  • Travel expenses for pre-employment interviews and employment processing will not be authorized.
  • Short Term Hourly (Temporary) Employees and Professional Experts: May work up to 25 hours a week (not to exceed 100 hours per month), total not to exceed 999 hours for a total of 100 days. (Days are counted regardless of the number of hours worked per day).
VISA
AVC does not sponsor visas.
ACCOMMODATIONS
If you have, any questions or concerns/if you require accommodations for the application process in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources Office at (661) 722-6311.
COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY AND EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Antelope Valley Community College District (AVC) is committed to employing administrators, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to student success. AVC recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters cultural awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students.
AVC is committed to hiring processes that support equal opportunity, diversity, and provide equitable consideration for all candidates as required in federal and state laws and regulations. To find out more about AVC, please visit our website at avc.edu.
Annual Security Report is provided by Antelope Valley College for prospective students and employees. A copy of this report is available at http://www.avc.edu/administration/police

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