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Library Assistant Jobs in Buffalo, NY (NOW HIRING)

West New York EMS

Senior Library Clerk

Grand Island, NY · On-site

$24.55/hr

Organize and maintain the library collection * Assist students and staff with finding resources and information * Monitor students' behavior and maintain an orderly atmosphere * Maintain a welcoming ...

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Library Assistant information

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$8

$18

$26

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Buffalo, NY is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.48 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 Buffalo, NY? The most popular types of Library jobs in Buffalo, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Buffalo, NY? For Library Assistant jobs in Buffalo, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Buffalo, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Buffalo, NY are:
What cities near Buffalo, NY are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Buffalo, NY with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Buffalo, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,641 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Librarian

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, NY • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

University at Buffalo rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

383rd of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title
Visiting Assistant Librarian
Department
University Libraries
Posting Number
F260010
Posting Link
https://www.ubjobs.buffalo.edu/postings/60808
Employer
State
Faculty Appointment Term
Term
Position Type
UUP Faculty
Bargaining Unit
Posting Detail Information
Fiscal Year
2025-2026
Position Summary
The University at Buffalo (UB) Libraries are accepting applications in a continuous recruitment effort to fill current and future Visiting Assistant Librarian positions. These non-tenure track assignments will be filled as full-time or part-time positions depending on operational needs. Appointments are expected to last one to three years and are reviewed for renewal on an annual basis. The campus and library unit will vary based on the assignment.
As a Visiting Assistant Librarian, you may perform a variety of duties including:
• Teaching Libraries' workshops and classes to undergraduate and graduate students.
• Assisting with the Libraries' scholarly publishing and open education resource initiatives.
• Surveying, arranging, describing, and processing institutional and manuscript collections.
• Identifying missing or incomplete accession documentation for collections.
• Performing original and/or copy cataloging of material.
• Assisting with bibliographic maintenance duties.
• Processing library material acquisitions in a variety of formats.
• Processing patron borrowing and lending requests.
• Providing reference services.
• Gathering, organizing, and evaluating electronic resource licensing information.
• Completing special projects.
This is a pooled posting; positions are filled on an as needed basis.
The University Libraries is a welcoming multicultural environment that serves an increasingly diverse constituency of patrons. Our employees, services, collections, and policies honor and reflect this diversity, and we invite individuals whose perspectives and experiences will enrich and strengthen our organization to apply.
University at Buffalo is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and, in keeping with our commitment, welcomes all to apply including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Minimum Qualifications
• A master's degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited institution OR a PhD related to the duties of the position.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion with the ability to support and enhance a diverse learning and working environment.
• Prior work experience using a cloud-based library services platform such as Ex Libris Alma/Primo or a local integrated library system.
• Must be able to problem-solve and provide analytical solutions using existing guidelines, policies, and procedures.
• Must be able to work independently without day-to-day supervision and function effectively within a team setting.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Prodig+
Executive Position
Physical Demands
Driving Requirements
Salary Range
Competitive
Additional Salary Information
Job Type
As assigned
Campus
As Assigned
Posting Alerts
Special Instructions Summary
Additional Information
Is a background check required for this posting?
Yes
Background Check Notification
For non-internal applicants: a selected candidate will have to complete and pass a background check prior to appointment.
Contact Information
Contact's Name
Jesse Meyer
Contact's Pronouns
he/him
Contact's Title
Libraries HR Officer
Contact's Email
ublibjob@buffalo.edu
Contact's Phone
716-645-1318
Posting Dates
Posted
01/28/2026
Deadline for Applicants
Open Until Filled
Date to be filled
References
Number of References Required
3
Reference Cutoff Date
Instructions to Applicant

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