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Library Assistant Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities * Assist patrons with their project from initial concept to final product * Train ... Explain library policies * Identify problem situations and seek help where appropriate to resolve ...

Responsibilities * Assist patrons with their project from initial concept to final product * Train ... Explain library policies * Identify problem situations and seek help where appropriate to resolve ...

Library Aide - Makerspace

Andover, MA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Makerspace Assistant Under supervision of a Department Coordinator, assist patrons using the ... Explain library policies * Identify problem situations and seek help where appropriate to resolve ...

Responsibilities Assist patrons with their project from initial concept to final product Train ... of the makerspace Explain library policies Identify problem situations and seek help where ...

Showing results 41-60

Library Assistant information

See Massachusetts salary details

$9

$20

$29

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Massachusetts is $20.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library assistant?

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 would a library assistant do?

A library assistant helps with tasks such as checking books in and out, shelving and organizing library materials, assisting patrons in locating resources, and maintaining the cleanliness and order of the library. They often use library management software and may need good customer service skills and attention to detail.

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 require basic computer skills and familiarity with library management software; additional certifications are not usually required but can be beneficial.

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 be a library assistant with no experience?

Library assistants typically do not need prior experience, as many employers provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as organization, communication, and familiarity with library systems or technology can be helpful, but entry-level positions often accept applicants without previous experience.

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.

Is it hard to be a library assistant?

Being a library assistant generally involves tasks such as organizing materials, helping patrons, and using library management software. The job requires good organizational skills, attention to detail, and customer service abilities, but it is not typically considered physically or mentally demanding. Training is often provided, and the work environment is usually quiet and structured.
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Massachusetts? The most popular types of Library jobs in Massachusetts are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Massachusetts? For Library Assistant jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,439 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Library & Archives Conservator

American Antiquarian Society

Worcester, MA • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Library & Archives Conservator
The Library & Archives Conservator is responsible for providing preventative care and comprehensive conservation evaluation and treatment for objects from the Society's diverse collection. They report to the Chief Conservator and work as an important part of a tightly organized department, managing and facilitating the work of the dynamic preservation and conservation program at the Society. The Library & Archives Conservator participates in all standard library preservation activities as well as engages with public programs for general outreach.
The American Antiquarian Society (AAS) cultivates a deeper understanding of the American past, grounded in its ever-growing collection of printed and manuscript sources. The Society fosters a broad community of inquiry through inclusive programs and generous support of scholarship. A national research library and learned society founded in 1812 by Revolutionary War patriot and printer Isaiah Thomas, AAS is located in Worcester, Massachusetts. The AAS library today houses the largest and most accessible collection of books, pamphlets, broadsides, newspapers, periodicals, children's literature, music, and graphic arts material printed before the twentieth century in what is now the United States, as well as manuscripts and a substantial collection of secondary texts, bibliographies, and digital resources and reference works.
Position Type: Full-time, non-exempt
Salary Range: $60,000 - $70,000 per year (DOE - depending on experience)
Location: Worcester, MA
Responsibilities
  • In consultation with the Chief Conservator, perform minor, as well as complex, paper conservation treatments for the Society's collections, comprised of both bound and single sheet printed objects, photographs, and manuscripts.
  • Examine and evaluate collection materials for treatment; confer with curatorial staff.
  • Manage workflow, keep records, write reports, and provide photo documentation for work performed and maintain existing conservation databases and image archives.
  • Prepare objects for loans, exhibits, digitization, and public programs.
  • Assist in the training and supervision of the summer conservation interns.
  • Keep abreast of new technical developments in the field.
  • Assist with preservation activities, such as disaster preparedness, collection storage, collection surveys, and environmental monitoring.
  • Provide collection housing in prefabricated and custom enclosures.
  • Assist in providing conservation orientations for new library staff, scanners, and volunteers.
  • Work collaboratively with supervisor and library staff in all activities.
  • Provide lab tours and participate in events programming and social media.

Required Skills/Abilities
  • Solid knowledge of the principles, concepts, and techniques of conservation treatment and documentation, and preservation.
  • Strong attention to detail and visual acuity; excellent hand skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and ability to multitask.
  • Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to think logically and analytically and work methodically.
  • Ability to follow directions and adhere to departmental work protocols.
  • Ability to operate and maintain specialized tools and book conservation equipment.
  • Ability to work with relevant chemicals; ability to understand and comply with health and safety protocols.
  • Ability to learn and use technology including automated library software systems.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in providing internal consultation and institutional outreach.
  • Ability to deal professionally and efficiently with all constituents.

Education/Experience
  • Degree in library & archives or paper conservation from an accredited conservation program; significant experience may be considered in lieu of an advanced degree.
  • 3-5 years of experience performing paper or archives conservation treatments and examination of a wide range of special library collection materials.

Physical Demands/Work Environment
  • Prolonged periods of standing, walking, and sitting.
  • Occasional periods of climbing or balancing, pulling/pushing items/hand trucks, lifting/carrying items weighing up to approximately thirty pounds, and reaching with arms and hands.
  • The use of hands for basic grasping/manipulation, fine manipulation, occasional reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching, and keyboarding.
  • Physical duties are subject to change.
  • May be exposed to dust, mold, and/or other organic material. Hazards are considered minor and controllable.

Deadline to apply: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The deadline for all submissions is August 15, 2026.
Start date: We anticipate the successful candidate will join our team in late 2026.
Hours: This is a full-time, non-exempt position of 35 hours (40 hours minus a one-hour unpaid lunch per day).
Compensation & Benefits: The range for this position is $32.97-38.46/hour, which is approximately $60,000 to 70,000 annually. Examples of benefits for full-time staff are vacation, sick and personal time, as well as ~12 paid holidays, your birthday off and paid full-office closure for approx. one week in December. We also have employer-sponsored health insurance, life insurance, disability coverage, and retirement plans that include employer match, among other benefits.
As an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to equal employment and promotion opportunity regardless of ability, age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
Finalists will be asked for references at a later stage.
For questions on this position, please contact careers[at]mwa.org. Please do not submit applications to this address.