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Library Assistant Jobs in Benton, KY (NOW HIRING)

Phenom People

Admin Asst-Administration

Mayfield, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Administrative Assistant For Administration The Administrative Assistant for Administration will provide nearly invisible support to the CEO, CFO and CNO acting with little supervision, anticipating ...

Phenom People

Admin Asst-Administration

Mayfield, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Administrative Assistant For Administration The Administrative Assistant for Administration will provide nearly invisible support to the CEO, CFO and CNO acting with little supervision, anticipating ...

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Library Assistant information

See Benton, KY salary details

$7

$14

$21

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Benton, KY is $14.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.97 and $16.73 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.
More about Library Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Benton, KY? The most popular types of Library jobs in Benton, KY are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Benton, KY look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Benton, KY are:
What cities near Benton, KY are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Benton, KY with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Benton, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,693 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Circulation Coordinator

Murray State University

Murray, KY • On-site

$19.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Murray State University rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

588th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Posting Number
20270017NE
Job Title
Circulation Coordinator
Number of Vacancies
1
About Murray State
Located in the West Kentucky region, Murray State University is a public, comprehensive University which offers a low cost of living, low property taxes, and a four-season climate. Murray has a friendly, small-town atmosphere with locally-owned specialty shops and restaurants, an acclaimed community theater, art guild and award-winning public schools. The area is home to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes, a 170,000-acre National Recreation Area, which offers a wide-range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located in close proximity to major cities and nearby access to Interstate 24, Murray is just a few hours from Nashville, St. Louis, Louisville and Memphis. Learn more about Careers at Murray State University.
About Murray State Benefits
Faculty and staff of Murray State University have access to a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, tuition waivers, generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and paid parental leave, as well as many other benefit offerings. Please refer to the Murray State Benefits page for more information.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Equal Opportunity Employer/AA. Murray State University does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, disability or political or social viewpoint. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
Type of Employment
Regular Full-Time
If Part Time, Enter Hours Per Week
Work Location
Murray, KY
Employment Term
12 Months
Position Type
Staff - Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Department
Library
Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities
Manages the circulation, reserve, overdue and lost items, billing, and shelving functions of Waterfield Library. Directs and supervises the daily activities of the full-time and part-time student employees working in the Circulation Department. Plans and supervises the shelving of the physical collections. Ensures high quality customer service for library patrons.
  • Coordinates and supervises circulation and reserve functions of Waterfield Libraries, including compiling statistical data.
  • Communicates with patrons regarding account status, materials checked out, overdue notices, lost items, and billing.
  • Plans, coordinates, and supervises the shelving of library collections, including, but not limited to print books, journals, media, and games, ensuring materials are shelved accurately and in a timely fashion.
  • Assists patrons in the use of the library by directing them to appropriate departments and resources, answering questions, and facilitating use of equipment such as the library catalog and printers.
  • Enforces University and library policies by advising patrons of those policies and contacting the appropriate administrator of security personnel when policies are not followed.
  • Responds to weather, fire and security emergencies by initiating emergency procedures, maintaining order, securing designated areas, and contacting proper personnel/authorities.
  • Supervises, schedules and trains two full-time employees (Library Assistant II and Library Assistant III) and more than 25 student workers, including timesheet and payroll responsibilities.
  • Communicates and collaborates with library personnel on workflows, projects, policies, and procedures.
  • Provides a lost and found service for the patrons of Waterfield Library.
  • Manages the Waterfield door access system and serves as Building Coordinator for Waterfield Library.
  • Contributes to the overall success of Waterfield Library by performing other essential duties as assigned.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree

Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements
  • Two years of work experience required.
  • Supervisory experience required.
  • Ability to work with details and technology, memory for oral and written directions, alertness, initiative, ability to plan and make decisions, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work well in emergency situations.

Preferred Education and/or Experience Qualifications
Posting Date
07/28/2026
Closing Date
08/11/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
Hourly Rate/Annual Salary
$19.39 (Additional pay dependent upon qualifications)
Staff Grade
108
Work Hours
  • Regular working hours.
  • Often requires night and weekend working hours.

Physical Demands
  • Normal for office environment.
  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.

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