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Library Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

York County

Library Clerk (Circulation)

Yorktown, VA

$40K - $47K/yr

Performs a variety of clerical tasks in assisting library patrons and maintaining library materials ... Ability to assist patrons in a tactful and courteous manner both in person and on the telephone.

York County, VA

Library Clerk (Circulation)

Yorktown, VA · On-site

$40K - $47K/yr

Library Services Division: LIBRARY TABB Opening Date: 05/15/2026 Closing Date: Continuous ... Ability to assist patrons in a tactful and courteous manner both in person and on the telephone.

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Library Assistant information

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How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Virginia is $18.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $20.96 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
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Library Assistant jobs near you
Library Clerk (Circulation)

Library Clerk (Circulation)

York County

Yorktown, VA

$40K - $47K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Description Responsible for performing paraprofessional responsibilities in the Circulation section of the Library. Performs a variety of clerical tasks in assisting library patrons and maintaining library materials and records including checking library materials in and out, collecting overdue fines, shelving materials, and providing limited reference assistance to library patrons. Job responsibilities may include any of the following, depending on the incumbent's functional assignment.

This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of job functions, but a representative sample of the type and level of work that is expected in this position. Performs a variety of tasks at the circulation division, including checking library materials in and out, registering patrons, updating patron's records, preparing daily automated reports; and collecting overdue fines and fees; counts money in cash drawers. Answers telephone and receive inquiries, providing information or referring caller to proper officials, as appropriate.

Takes requests for reserved materials; acts on computer report of outdated "hold" requests; contacts patrons regarding items returned with missing materials or damages to returned materials; applies determined charges to patron's record. Assist patrons in use of library equipment, such as computers, copiers, and other equipment. Collects money for Friends of the Library items; collects money from copiers; performs a daily count report.

Reads shelves; collects requested items and pulls expired holds. Assists with statistical record keeping. Assists with training and supervision of less experienced workers.

Oversees pages and community service workers when supervisor is unavailable. Closes and locks building at the end of the workday. Minimum Qualifications Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school.

This job is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment checks to include criminal history and background checks. Supplemental Information General knowledge of PCs, Windows, MS Office products, and the Internet. General knowledge of standard office practices and procedures.

General knowledge of basic mathematics to include addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. General knowledge of business English, depending on the particular assignment. Some knowledge of procedures and practices common to a public library system.

Some knowledge of record keeping and reporting. Attention to detail. Ability to assist patrons in a tactful and courteous manner both in person and on the telephone.

Must be able to work a continual floating schedule as needed. Must be able to work nights and weekends when required. Physical Demands Must be physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including computers, typewriters, copiers, calculators, etc.

Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally, and to push library carts frequently. There is frequent stooping and bending involved. There is some climbing onto step stools when shelving materials.

Standing is frequent when at the circulation desk. Gripping is involved when writing with pen or pencil and when using mouse while on the computer. For a more detailed description: View Document To view our Total Compensation Calculator, click here.

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