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Library Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Marion

Bookstore Volunteer

Marion, IA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Friends of the Marion Public Library is looking for volunteers to assist in the Bookstore. This position is a core volunteer position to serve customers and maintain the Bookstore ...

City of Marion, Iowa

Bookstore Volunteer

Marion, IA

JOB SUMMARY The Friends of the Marion Public Library is looking for volunteers to assist in the Bookstore. This position is a core volunteer position to serve customers and maintain the Bookstore ...

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$17

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How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Iowa is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about Library Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Library jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Library Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,499 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Part - Time Tool Lending Library Coordinator - Euclid ReStore

Part - Time Tool Lending Library Coordinator - Euclid ReStore

GREATER DES MOINES HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Des Moines, IA

$17/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description

About Habitat for Humanity ReStore

Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a nonprofit home improvement store and donation center offering new and gently used furniture, appliances, home goods, and building materials. Every purchase and donation directly supports affordable housing initiatives-helping families build strength, stability, and self-reliance.

When you join our ReStore team, you're not just starting a job-you're contributing to positive change in your community and helping create more sustainable, resilient neighborhoods.


Position Summary: 

The ReStore Tool Lending Library Coordinator manages day-to-day operations of the tool lending library. Tasks include driving tool membership within the store and through meeting targeted community outreach goals, processing tool memberships, managing lending activities, performing routine maintenance on tools, and supporting general ReStore activities.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Build and maintain positive relationships with customers by providing high-quality customer service.
  • Answer customer questions regarding the Tool Lending Library and the ReStore in general on specific items and how to use equipment and complete projects.
  • Ensure that all areas of the tool library are safe, clean, and organized.
  • Manage Tool Lending activity by keeping accurate records using computer programs.
  • Work with Neighborhood Revitalization Manager on strategy to increase tool lending library memberships with target partner neighborhoods.
  • Evaluate condition/acceptability of tools pre and post lending, performing safety checks on all tools.
  • Perform maintenance and repairs on tools.
  • Assist Customers with loading and unloading of equipment when necessary. May also need to demonstrate safety features and operational features of the equipment.
  • Display tools in a way that increase membership interest.
  • Supervise volunteers as assigned.
  • Respond to inquiries (i.e., phone, in-person, electronic) regarding tool lending opportunities.
  • Create educational/safety materials to inform customers about the tools they are borrowing.
  • Other duties as assigned. 

Requirements

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma/GED required.
  • Great track record of providing excellent customer service.
  • Knowledge of tools required.
  • Knowledge of general construction practices.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Effective organizational skills.
  • Desire to work with diverse staff and customer base.
  • Willingness to work with volunteers.
  • Committed to GDMHFH mission and environmental stewardship.
  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • All applicants need to pass criminal background check.
  • Demonstrates the ability to use commonly-used concepts, practices and procedures within the field.
  • Must meet or exceed the ability to demonstrate the 5 core and common competencies outlined below.
  • Convey clear, concise information to others, using verbal or other appropriate communication techniques.
  • Complete formal training plan and assignments as required.
  • Treat others in a nondiscriminatory, lawful and ethical manner, respecting the differences among people, and the value they bring to GDMHFH.
  • Follow safe practices in all work activities to avoid injuries and accidents. 

Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity (GDMHFH) is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization operated on Christian principles that seeks to put God's love into action by building homes, communities and hope.


We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply. If you are passionate about customer service and making a difference in your community, we encourage you to apply for this opportunity.

Apply