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Library Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Librarian I

Alameda, CA · On-site

$68K - $96K/yr

Everything listed in the Library Assistant . * Answers in-depth reference questions and readers' advisory inquires. * Promotes reader interest and full use of library resources. * Curates collections ...

Trains and provides lead direction to library assistant. Research grant opportunities and writes grant proposals. Assists in the planning and evaluation of programs and services and collaborates on ...

Apply circulation policies to assist patrons with the checkout, renewal, and check-in of library materials. * Perform end-processing of Library physical materials, including labelling and creating ...

Apply circulation policies to assist patrons with the checkout, renewal, and check-in of library materials. * Perform end-processing of library physical materials, including labeling and creating ...

Apply circulation policies to assist patrons with the checkout, renewal, and check-in of library materials. * Perform end-processing of Library physical materials, including labelling and creating ...

Library Project Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Monitor library space and assist with layout and organization improvements for collections. Support library security, access control, and facility maintenance coordination. Assist with review and ...

Library Aide

CA · On-site

$21.48 - $24.86/hr

Library Aides also assist in setting up equipment for library programs, such as story time, and help keep the library neat and welcoming for patrons. Library Aides follow both oral and written ...

Library Aide

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$21.48 - $24.86/hr

Library Aides also assist in setting up equipment for library programs, such as story time, and help keep the library neat and welcoming for patrons. Library Aides follow both oral and written ...

Showing results 21-40

Library Assistant information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$10

$22

$33

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Berkeley, CA is $22.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.56 and $25.91 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 Berkeley, CA? The most popular types of Library jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA? For Library Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,580 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Preservation and Conservation Assistant (6760C) Library, #86720

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA • On-site

$27.69 - $32.21/hr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

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Job ID
86720
Location
Main Campus-Berkeley
Full/Part Time
Full Time
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About Berkeley

At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom and belonging make it a special place for students, faculty and staff.

As a world-leading institution, Berkeley is known for its academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice. Since our founding in 1868, we have driven innovation, creating global intellectual, economic and social value.

We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity-focused community that views education as a matter of social justice. Please consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles, Principles of Community, and Strategic Plan.

At UC Berkeley, we believe that learning is a fundamental part of working, and provide space for supportive colleague communities via numerous employee resource groups (staff organizations). Our goal is for everyone on the Berkeley campus to feel supported and equipped to realize their full potential. We actively support this by providing all of our full-time staff employees with at least 80 hours (10 days) of paid time per year to engage in professional development activities. Find out more about how you can grow your career at UC Berkeley.

Departmental Overview

The Preservation Department maintains the Library's collections in serviceable condition. It is responsible for binding, repair, conservation treatment, protective enclosures, disaster planning, and other preservation services.

Position Summary

Provide supervised support throughout the Preservation Department, as needed; other duties as assigned.

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is: 7/8/2026

Responsibilities

  • Assist in minor repair of circulating library collections (e.g. books, maps), and utilize such repair techniques as tip-ins, minor sewing, paper repair, flattening, and staple removal.
  • Assist with tracking collection item in Alma that have been sent to Preservation; prepare and process monographs and serials for binding and repair.
  • Prepare items for replacement, and assist with photocopy replacement of damaged or missing pages; conduct bibliographic searching using OCLC and other search tools.
  • General preservation support with environmental monitoring, pest management, disaster planning and salvage response.
  • Assist in coordination of CoLibri workflow (protective treatment for paperback bindings).
  • Measure library materials for custom enclosures, construct custom enclosures, and encapsulate flat items.
  • Help hire, train and assign work to student employees.
  • Maintain work space, equipment, and supplies.
  • Administrative: attend and contribute to department meetings; maintain documentation of procedures and suggest methods for improvement; record and submit monthly production statistics.

Required Qualifications

  • Willingness and ability to work with strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to work under general and close supervision, and in a tight-knit team environment
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills in the English language.
  • Competence with Google and/or Microsoft Office applications.
  • Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Working knowledge of library preservation principles and workflows.
  • Demonstrated interest in preservation and conservation (e.g. professional work, volunteer work, classes, or other professional development).
  • Knowledge of and ability to execute book and paper repair techniques.
  • Knowledge of and ability to use related conservation materials and equipment.
  • Experience coordinating and planning the work of colleagues.
  • Experience using Alma or other library catalogs.

Salary & Benefits

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website.

Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

  • The budgeted hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $27.69 (step 1.0) - $32.21 (step 8.0). The full range is up to $41.33 (step 20.0).
  • This is a non-exempt, biweekly-paid position.
  • This is a full-time (40 hours/week) Career position eligible for full UC benefits.

How to Apply

  • To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

Other Information

  • This recruitment has 1 opening.
  • This position is governed by the terms and conditions in the agreement for the Clerical & Allied Services Unit (CX) between the University of California and Teamsters Local 2010. The current bargaining agreement manual can be found at: http://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/cx/index.html
  • This is not a visa opportunity. This position does not include sponsorship of a new consular H-1B visa petition that would require payment of the $100,000 supplemental fee.
  • This position is not eligible for remote work.

Misconduct

SB 791 and AB 810 Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy

UC Anti-Discrimination Policy

Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.