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Library Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Substitute Library Clerk

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

May assist patrons in using the Library's technology or their own technology to access library services. May perform building opening or closing tasks. May assist with event set up or tear down.

Substitute Library Clerk

Monroe, OR · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

May assist patrons in using the Library's technology or their own technology to access library services. May perform building opening or closing tasks. May assist with event set up or tear down.

Substitute Library Clerk

Philomath, OR · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

May assist patrons in using the Library's technology or their own technology to access library services. May perform building opening or closing tasks. May assist with event set up or tear down.

Substitute Library Clerk

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

May assist patrons in using the Library's technology or their own technology to access library services. May perform building opening or closing tasks. May assist with event set up or tear down.

Substitute Library Clerk

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

May assist patrons in using the Library's technology or their own technology to access library services. May perform building opening or closing tasks. May assist with event set up or tear down.

Substitute Library Clerk

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$16.10 - $18.47/hr

May assist patrons in using the Library's technology or their own technology to access library services. May perform building opening or closing tasks. May assist with event set up or tear down.

Showing results 21-40

Library Assistant information

See Oregon salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Oregon is $19.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.36 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 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 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.

Can you be a library assistant with no experience?

Library assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as organization, communication, and familiarity with library systems or tools can be helpful, but many employers consider entry-level candidates and provide training to develop necessary skills.

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

Getting a job as a library assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience with customer service or administrative tasks. Many positions are entry-level and may not require formal certifications, but familiarity with library systems and good communication skills can improve chances. Competition varies by location and library size, but overall, it is generally accessible for those with the appropriate qualifications.

What degree do I need to be a library assistant?

A library assistant typically does not require a specific degree, but a high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient. Some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education or coursework in library science or related fields. Strong organizational skills and familiarity with library systems are also beneficial.

What do you do as a library assistant?

A library assistant helps 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 may perform clerical tasks or help with events. Strong organizational and customer service skills are important for this role.

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 most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Oregon?

For Library Assistant jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,085 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Access & Acquisitions Senior Librarian

Salem, OR • On-site

$38.04 - $46.28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Make an impact: The Salem Public Library is seeking a collaborative, engaging, and service-oriented individual whose main objective is to deliver excellent internal and external customer service as an Access & Acquisitions Senior Librarian at Salem Public Library. This position will coordinate and participate in selecting physical and digital materials for the library's collection to ensure that the library maintains a robust, inclusive, and accessible collection, which aligns with the Salem Public Library's Collection Development Policy, Strategic Plan, and Mission. The Senior Librarian classification is distinguished from the Librarian classification in that Senior Librarians are responsible for the design and application of the full scope of professional library knowledge and techniques, coordinate more complex and multi-division projects and provide oversight to project members, vendors, or other stakeholders, assumes a greater level of decision-making responsibilities and oversight of lower-level classifications, and/or responsibility of a sub-unit of the Library.

Employees work under general supervision. Supervision of other employees is not a responsibility of this classification. Employees in this classification act in a lead role and participate in the Person-In-Charge program.

Learn and grow: We value our employees and their professional development. As a Salem Public Library librarian, you will have: Access to training opportunities at the library and through professional organizations; Opportunities to become involved in the Oregon Library Association and other professional organizations; Experiences that further develop your collection management, readers advisory, and direct customer service skills; An opportunity to develop leadership and problem-solving skills as a member of the Person-in-Charge team. What you will do: The Access & Acquisitions Senior Librarian will create and maintain meaningful connections with patrons, coworkers, vendors, and library partners.

They will collaborate with coworkers and support the library mission of "engaging all of Salem in lifelong learning, accessing information, and making meaningful connections." The Access & Acquisitions Senior Librarian will: Coordinate and collaborate with selectors to ensure that fund allocations are equitably distributed and used to build and maintain a robust, inclusive, and accessible library collection. Work closely with the Access & Acquisitions Supervisor to ensure that the library materials budget, including Foundation, Friends, and Trust and Agency funds, are spent responsibly and appropriately. Build and maintain relationships with vendors and service providers to establish accounts, troubleshoot issues, and submit invoices

Perform selection, acquisitions, cataloging, subscription and electronic resource management. Train staff to select materials that enhance the library's collection, including selecting philosophies, support materials, and deaccession practices Work as a member of the Access & Acquisitions team. Library programming and outreach are not part of the regular job duties for this position.

Learn more about the Salem Public Library at: https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/library Additional information on job responsibilities: Coordination of a sub-unit of the Library including but not limited to providing service design and oversight of product delivery. Develop and coordinate complex multi-division project plans, timelines, and resource allocations for assigned projects with measurable outcomes. Delegate and oversee the project work of other staff, volunteers, stakeholders, and vendors

Lead and facilitate collaborative initiatives and efforts that further division and library goals. Develop operational and functional processes and process improvement strategies, including procedure and practice development and implementation. Plan, prioritize, coordinate and facilitate delivery of day-to-day services, functions, and work activities.

Implement service delivery of day-to-day library functions on location and offsite. Connect customers with library products, services, materials and events, including to answer and resolve questions about services and accounts, and provide information, directions and referrals. Provide routine and complex reference and readers' advisory as required.

Research, develop, plan, coordinate and implement projects and services, including evaluation, data analytics, and report/presentation development. Manage assigned areas of the library collection including selection, evaluation, and maintenance of library materials and other resources according to local policies and industry standards. Facilitate the training of staff and volunteers in library theories and practices.

Coordinate and provide functional, technical, and lead direction to librarians, library assistant classifications and volunteers. Respond, report, and resolve issues regarding general aspects of library maintenance, appearance, customer behavior, safety and security issues. Responsible for building and staff in absence of manager or supervisor and as part of the Person-In-Charge program.

Perform basic troubleshooting and maintenance of equipment, Wi-Fi and software. Perform all work of lower library classifications. What can we offer for all your hard work.

Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family. Paid vacation and sick time in accordance with City policies. Competitive pay.

Employer-paid PERS contribution of 6%. Opportunity for voluntary pre-tax contributions to a 457b account. Health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts.

Voluntary long-term care. Employee wellness program. Employee assistance program.

Employee health clinic. Position schedule will include working one weekend and one evening shift. The City of Salem offers a comprehensive and equitable base salary within the listed range based on your experience, skills, and education.

We encourage you to clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Learn more about Equal Pay. What are the minimum qualifications.

What are the minimum qualifications. Must pass the pre-employment background check and drug test (including marijuana). Depending on area of assignment, may be required to have valid Oregon driver's license (or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of residency) and meet the City of Salem's driving standards, or have reliable transportation to travel to and from work sites, events, trainings, and meetings.

Minimum of two (2) years' progressively responsible professional librarian work or any equivalent combination of education and experience in a public service-related field that demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities as listed, and ability to perform the essential job functions. A college degree from an accredited college or university in a related field to program assignment (i.e., library sciences, business management, hospitality, social work, psychology, etc.) Hiring managers do not have access to view resumes as part of the application review process, please make sure to give detailed information in your application that includes your experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as requested in the supplemental questions and job advertisement. Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree in Library and/or Information Science

Bilingual skills in Spanish. What you will bring along (desired): Relevant experience in collection development, acquisitions, and/or management of electronic resources Experience with Integrated Library Systems, specifically modules for acquisitions, serials, cataloging, and reports. Demonstrated functional knowledge of current cataloging practices (AACR2, RDA, MARC records, LCSH, DDC, etc.) and an understanding of the principles of authority control

Leadership, supervision, and customer service skills. Effective and creative problem-solving, decision-making, and adaptability to manage diverse and competing demands and implement solutions. Communicate effectively in all formats with diverse customers, employees, contractors, other agencies, public officials, the general public and volunteers.

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the public. Respect, seek to understand, and value individual differences to foster and support a diverse and inclusive workplace. About us: Salem is the second largest city in Oregon and the capital city.

Centrally located in the Willamette Valley, Salem is 49 square miles in size and extends across to counties, Marion and Polk. The community has well-established neighborhoods and carefully preserved historic buildings with wide diversity and a family-friendly ambiance. The city is home to nearly 180,000 residents.

For a full community profile detailing demographics and housing statistics, visit the City of Salem website. The City of Salem organization has eight primary departments: Community Services, Finance, Fire, Enterprise Services, Legal, Police, Public Works, and Community Planning and Development. Several departments also have functional divisions within their department.

The City of Salem employs roughly 1,350 talented and dedicated staff members and works collaboratively with five labor unions. The Salem Police Department is the fourth largest agency in Oregon. We are a full-service department with myriad special teams and career advancement opportunities.

In November 2020, the department moved into a modern 104,000-square-foot facility with many amenities for employees, featuring purposeful efficiency design for operations and amenities that promote employee wellness. The Public Works Department values employees and their professional development. If you are someone that takes pride in collaborating on innovative ideas, proactively responding to community needs, and being a good environmental and financial steward, we look forward to meeting you.

The Public Works Department promotes a healthy work life balance, while maintaining the utmost dedication to the health, safety, and welfare of our community, including our team. The Urban Renewal Agency and the Salem Housing Authority are separate municipal corporations. The Agency contracts with the City for services and the Authority is led by the Housing Administrator within the Urban Development department.

Where can I find out more about the position. Go to the menu option for Class Specifications and search for Librarian, Senior or view by clicking here. How can I apply.

The City of Salem invites individuals of all diverse communities and backgrounds to apply for our available job opportunities as we strive to provide the best service to everyone. The City of Salem is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all and has a culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that by welcoming differences, encouraging new ideas and views, listening to, and learning from each other, we are better able to serve the community.

To apply, click on the green "Apply" button to complete your application. Hiring managers do not have access to view resumes as part of the application review process, please make sure to include how you meet the qualifications outlined in the class specification in your application. Applicants that meet the minimum qualifications as outlined above but not selected for this position may be placed on an eligibility list, and candidates may be hired from the list.

Eligibility lists are valid for six months. The City will send email notifications to eligible candidates about potential hiring opportunities so please ensure your email settings accept our system generated email notifications. You may subscribe for automatic notification of job openings at the City through the Job Interest Cards - sign up today.

For more information about employment at the City of Salem, please visit our website at www.cityofsalem.net/jobs.