ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Library Assistant Jobs in Amherst, MA (NOW HIRING)

Northland

Assistant Community Manager

Enfield, CT · On-site

$19.25 - $23.25/hr

At this community, residents have access to indoor & outdoor pools, two lighted tennis courts, a library, and a health club. About the Role: Northland is seeking an Assistant Community Manager to ...

Northland

Assistant Community Manager

Enfield, CT · On-site

$19.25 - $23.25/hr

At this community, residents have access to indoor & outdoor pools, two lighted tennis courts, a library, and a health club. About the Role: Northland is seeking an Assistant Community Manager to ...

Northland

Assistant Community Manager

Enfield, CT

$19.25 - $23.25/hr

At this community, residents have access to indoor & outdoor pools, two lighted tennis courts, a library, and a health club. About the Role: Northland is seeking an Assistant Community Manager to ...

Serrato Corporation

Outreach Assistant

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Maintain central library of required documents, handbooks, directives, and center operation ... assist in the placement and job development of students. * Perform other duties as assigned.

Serrato Corporation

Outreach Assistant

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Maintain central library of required documents, handbooks, directives, and center operation ... assist in the placement and job development of students. * Perform other duties as assigned.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLibrary JobsLibrary Assistant JobsLibrary Assistant Jobs in Amherst, MA

Library Assistant information

See Amherst, MA salary details

$8

$18

$26

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Amherst, MA is $18.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.82 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 Amherst, MA? The most popular types of Library jobs in Amherst, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Amherst, MA? For Library Assistant jobs in Amherst, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Amherst, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Amherst, MA are:
What cities near Amherst, MA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Amherst, MA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Amherst, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,271 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Library & Academic Resource Specialist (Digital Learning & AI Literacy) (Part-Time)

Library & Academic Resource Specialist (Digital Learning & AI Literacy) (Part-Time)

Bay Path University

Longmeadow, MA • On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY: The Library & Academic Resource Specialist (Digital Learning & AI Literacy) provides reference and information literacy instruction services to students, faculty, and staff of the University and plays a central role in advancing undergraduate and graduate student success through instruction, outreach, and academic support focused on digital literacy and technology use, including navigating the effective and ethical use of digital and AI tools in research and academic work.
HOURS: Sunday 11:30AM-8:00PM, Monday-Thursday 5:00PM- 8:00PM
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Provide traditional and electronic reference desk service, including the use of print and electronic resources, to students, faculty, and staff of the University.
  • Design digital literacy and library instruction classes or courses for students, faculty, and staff.
  • Conduct in-person and virtual class visits, workshops, and instructional sessions focused on research skills, information literacy, digital literacy, academic integrity, and responsible use of AI and emerging technologies.
  • Collaborate with faculty to carry out and assess the University's information literacy program and integrate library resources and services with instruction.
  • Design and prepare documentation to assist library users in identifying,
    locating, evaluating, and using all types and formats of information resources.
  • Develop instructional materials, such as web-based bibliographic guides, pathfinders, and tutorials.
  • Participate in projects designed to increase campus-wide awareness and use of library resources and services.
  • Plan and implement Sunday programming designed to increase student engagement with library services.
  • Serve as a campus resource on emerging artificial intelligence tools for research and academic libraries by developing programming, consultations, and guidance for students and faculty.
  • Collaborate with faculty, instructional designers, and campus AI leaders to align library guidance on emerging artificial intelligence tools with institutional initiatives, academic integrity standards, and evolving teaching practices.
  • Maintain currency in reference and instruction by reading professional literature, participating in professional organizations, and attending meetings relevant to academic librarianship.
  • Assist in routine library duties, including circulation and collection maintenance.
  • Attend trainings as required.
  • Attend and participate in required meetings.
  • Conduct special research projects as needed.
  • Complete any other assignments as directed by the University.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • MLS from an ALA-accredited program preferred. Bachelor's Degree required.
  • Demonstrated experience providing reference, instruction, and/or learning assistance in higher education and/or an academic library is preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to support students with digital tools, research processes, electronic information services, and emerging technologies, including AI-assisted learning.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects and assignments with high quality and minimal errors.
  • Demonstrated service-oriented attitude.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all members of the University community, including students, faculty, staff, and administrators.
  • Ability to adhere to University policies and procedures.
  • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and within FERPA and HIPAA guidelines.
  • All new employees must complete the FERPA, Anti-Harassment, and any other required online trainings within 15 days of employment.
  • General knowledge of the University's mission, purpose, and goals and the role this position plays in achieving those goals.

Apply