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Library Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

... * Assist head of reader services in hiring, training, and managing interns * Offer library orientation tours * Prepare books for mailing Performs other duties as required. Professional Qualifications

Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences or equivalent. * Academic background in a science field taught at the College such as physics, biology, chemistry, psychology, computer science, and ...

The staff of a branch library. * Executes the policies and practices of the Library as they pertain to the Branch Library. * Assumes primary responsibility in one service area or more, depending on ...

New

Branch Librarian I

Dorchester, MA · On-site

$75K - $98K/yr

The staff of a branch library. Responsibilities: * Executes the policies and practices of the Library as they pertain to the Branch Library. * Assumes primary responsibility in one service area or ...

New

Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences or equivalent. * Academic background in a science field taught at the College such as physics, biology, chemistry, psychology, computer science, and ...

Childrens Librarian II

Boston, MA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Under supervision and within the framework of the Library's policies and practices, to assume responsibility for the effective execution of the Library's programs of service to a diverse population ...

Under supervision and within the framework of the Library's policies and practices, to assume responsibility for the effective execution of the Library's programs of service to a diverse population ...

... rooms, library, kitchens and pantries. What You Will Do * Provide a full range of office ... Monitor and organize office and pantry supplies and sample returns * Assist with setup and clean-up ...

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Library Assistant information

See Boston, MA salary details

$9

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$29

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Boston, MA is $20.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $22.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How much do librarians make?

Librarians in Connecticut typically earn an average annual salary of around $60,000, though this can vary based on experience, education, and the type of library. Salaries may be higher for those with advanced degrees or specialized skills in library management or information technology.

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. Relevant skills include good communication, organization, and familiarity with library management software; some positions may require prior customer service experience or a background in library science or related fields.

What schooling do you need to be a library assistant?

To become a library assistant, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some positions may prefer or require post-secondary education or coursework in library science or related fields, along with good organizational and customer service skills.

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 assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. Basic skills such as organization, communication, and familiarity with library systems or technology can be helpful, but many entry-level roles are open to candidates 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Library jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Boston, MA? For Library Assistant jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,214 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Associate University Librarian

Associate University Librarian

Brandeis University

Waltham, MA • On-site

$119K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Brandeis University is looking to hire an Associate University Librarian for Scholarly Resources & Discovery in the Library Services. Reporting to the University Librarian, the Associate University Librarian leads a collaborative team setting strategic direction, developing and executing vision, and managing activities for a major portion of Library Services. This position directly manages regular employees and student workers.
The Associate University Librarian will bring a collaborative approach to setting strategic directions and managing collection activities. Areas of responsibility include oversight of the over $4,700,000 resource acquisition budget allocation, acquisition strategies and facilitating discovery through oversight of library systems, and metadata creation; optimizing physical and digital collections; resource sharing; leading vendor relationships, licensing and managing access to a rapidly growing array of digital content; building a scholarly communication program; managing and preserving digitized and born-digital materials across their life cycle. Reporting to the University Librarian, the Associate University Librarian oversees staff in Resource Management & Assessment, Interlibrary Loan, and Library Systems.
The Associate University Librarian is a member of the Library's senior management team and participates in strategic planning, program development and evaluation, budget formulation, and resource allocation. They also participate in grants and fundraising and other resource development programs, and promotes the visibility of the Library both within and outside Brandeis University. With the University Librarian and other senior leaders in the library, they are responsible for developing collaborative relationships with other Brandeis University departments, universities, and organizations; and for representing the Brandeis Library regionally, nationally, and internationally.
The Associate University Librarian for Scholarly Resources will work closely with colleagues to assess the impact of Library services, drive responsible resource allocation, demonstrate the value of the Library to the University, and develop strategic alliances with the University's academic leadership and other external partners in pursuit of shared goals.
This position manages members of the Library's collective bargaining unit, represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 888, for purposes of wages, hours and other terms and conditions of employment standardized across the University.
At Brandeis University, we are committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of our community. We seek candidates who are dedicated to creating resources, opportunities, and experiences that serve the needs of a broad and varied campus population. The ideal candidate will bring a collaborative spirit and the ability to work effectively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, experiences, learning approaches, and viewpoints.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Leads an innovative and entrepreneurial staff in developing strategies for resources and services that support Brandeis University's education and research programs that facilitate worldwide scholarly communication. This leader will also be responsible for fostering strong collaborative relationships between the acquisition and development of content, and the services that directly support access and use. 50 %
  • Oversees the resource acquisition budget allocation and acquisition strategies and facilitates discovery through oversight of library systems and metadata creation; optimizes physical and digital collections; resource sharing; leads vendor relationships, licensing and manages access to a rapidly growing array of digital content; scholarly communications; manages and preserves digitized and born-digital materials across their life cycle. 20 %
  • Participates in strategic planning, program development and evaluation, budget formulation, and resource allocation; participates in grants and fundraising and other resource development programs, and promotes the visibility of the Library both within and outside Brandeis University. With the University Librarian and other senior leaders in the library, is responsible for developing collaborative relationships with other Brandeis University departments, universities, and organizations; and for representing the Brandeis Library regionally, nationally, and internationally. 20 %
  • Other duties as required. 10%

The salary range for the position is $119.2k-$123k.
Requirements:
  • A terminal professional degree in librarianship (for example, in the United States, a Master's degree in library/information science) is required.
  • Over 8 years of total work related experience including 3-5 years of supervisory/management experience.
  • Significant experience in a research library, including strategic planning and budgeting.
  • Experience in collection development and fund management.
  • Experience leveraging consortium partnerships.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of best practices and current trends in both digital and physical resource management and operations.
  • Demonstrated success in:
    • Leading and managing organizational change.
    • Collaboration and strategic partnering.
    • Experience in designing and coordinating transformational initiatives and bringing them to timely and successful implementation. Creative integration of automated and manual technical services processes preferred.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to be an effective spokesperson and presenter.
  • Demonstrated ability to work successfully in diverse environments and to collaborate with people from varied professional, cultural, and educational backgrounds.
  • Commitment to contributing to an environment where all members of the community can access resources, feel respected, and thrive.
  • Record of professional contribution and engagement.

The Associate University Librarian is primarily an on-site position.
For full consideration, please submit your cover letter and resume/CV by May 11, 2026.
Pay Range Disclosure
The University's pay ranges represent a good faith estimate of what Brandeis reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience and education/training, internal peer equity, and applicable legal requirements.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Brandeis University is an equal opportunity employer which does not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, genetic information, disability, caste, military or veteran status or any other category protected by law (also known as membership in a "protected class").