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Library Assistant Jobs in Burien, WA (NOW HIRING)

Adult Services Librarian

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$34.75 - $48.09/hr

... Library's initiatives; collaborates with staff to assist with service and program delivery; provides leadership and instruction regarding the implementation of services, equipment and resources ...

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Library Assistant information

See Burien, WA salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Burien, WA is $21.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.18 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 Burien, WA? The most popular types of Library jobs in Burien, WA are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Burien, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Burien, WA are:
What cities near Burien, WA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Burien, WA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Burien, WA 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 $44,441 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Library Assistant - Elementary

Federal Way Public Schools

Federal Way, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

This is 5.5 hours Library Assistant with .5 hours Front Office Clerical hours. 
 POSITION SUMMARY:  The Library Assistant - Elementary School plays a large part in ensuring that students have productive library experiences. This is accomplished in a variety of ways, including keeping the library neat and tidy, shelving books accurately, and checking books in and out in a timely manner. This individual also assists students in locating appropriate reading material. The Library Assistant assists students in accessing and using technology tools but does not provide direct instruction. This position is responsible for greeting guests cordially, making them feel welcome in the library and helping to ensure that their needs are met. The Secretary Generalist - Elementary is a position that requires a wide range of skills and abilities. This position plays an important role in ensuring that many office and secretarial tasks are handled in a timely and professional manner.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. Some incumbents may not perform all the duties listed while in other cases related duties may also be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


  • Greet students, staff, parents, community members and other visitors upon their entrance to the library.
  • Assist individual students who are visiting the library and supervise to ensure students follow library expectations.
  • Responsible for material check-ins and checkouts.
  • Accurately shelving books, and processing magazine and other library materials.
  • Maintain patron and circulation records.
  • Responsible for maintaining records for overdue, lost and damaged books; notifying teachers and parents of overdue books.
  • Greet students, staff, parents, community members, and other visitors upon their entrance to the building.
  • Answer incoming telephone calls, provide accurate information, direct calls to others, and take messages.
  • Collect and report lunch count to Nutrition Services daily.
  • Put together enrollment packets
  • Provide secretarial service to include supporting with student discipline information & scheduling parent meetings.
  • Create files for new scholars, cumulative and health files; review prior schools records on new scholars, place in filing system.
  • Create and maintain guest employee folders; file updated class lists and health care plans in staff sub folders monthly along with building information.
  • Sort incoming and outgoing district and US mail. Ensure distribution of mail into appropriate staff mailboxes.

 
OTHER RESPONSIBLITIES:

  • May assist Librarian with clerical tasks such as filing, sorting, photocopying and light correspondence.
  • Assist with preparing new books for circulation
  • Assist with repairing and cleaning materials and equipment.
  • May assist Librarian in cataloging materials and equipment into the district library software system.
  • May assist Librarian with displays corresponding with holidays, special events, celebrations, etc.
  • May be responsible for schedule and coordinate use of audiovisual equipment and software, including computer labs and storage systems for technology equipment (aka COWS).
  • May assist Librarian with end-of-year inventory.
  • May assist with maintaining laminating machine; may be responsible for laminating materials for staff.
  • Multilingual staff member may be asked to translate within their scope of work.
  • Assist with secretarial tasks such as word processing, filing, and making phone calls to verify absences.
  • Assist with health room coverage when health room staff is not available to include caring for ill children, complete accident reports, administering medications, and provide first aid, ensuring that a parent or guardian is called when necessary and to pick up student when applicable.
  • Assist other office personnel with requesting and sending student records, registration, and withdrawal of students.
  • Assist families with Online enrollment; helping to set up Parent Vue account.
  • Maintain volunteer records, check that background checks have been performed, etc.
  • Ensure office machines are in working condition.
  • Prepare appropriate communications such as newsletters, e-mails, flyers, surveys, etc. to students, staff, and community.
  • Assist other office personnel with requesting and sending student records, registration, and withdrawal of students.
  • Multilingual staff may be asked to translate within their scope of work.
  • May periodically supervise students for a variety of reasons.

 
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent
One (1) year clerical experience
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Positive evaluations
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience working in a school or library environment
Basic knowledge of the district library software system
Basic knowledge of the Internet is helpful
Bilingual
Basic knowledge of a publishing software
CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT:
Criminal background clearance
Work scheduled hours on a consistent basis
KNOWLEDGE OF:
School board policies and procedures
Microsoft WORD and a general aptitude for computers
Database management
ABILITY TO:
Organize and perform job responsibilities efficiently and independently without close supervision and able to pay strict attention to detail.
Perform safety responsibilities while under pressure.
Demonstrate basic knowledge of modern technology and willingness and ability to increase knowledge to proficiency
Speak, read and follow written or verbal communications: able to proofread
Exhibit proper telephone etiquette
Practice effective safety and security within individual work routines
Remain flexible; able to cope with frequent interruptions as part of a daily routine, to multi-task and shift priorities to meet required deadlines
Develop and maintain positive customer relations with staff, students, parents, and the public in a multicultural and multiracial community
Cope with and assist angry or distraught students, parents, and other community members
Work collaboratively with District staff and promote teamwork with co-workers
Practice ethical and professional standards of conduct including the requirements of confidentiality
Abide by Federal Way Public Schools' Policies and Procedures
Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES RELATED TO CULTURAL COMPETENCE AND EQUITY:
Knowledge/awareness of own cultural identity and how this influences behavior, and desire to learn about the cultural identity of others.
Ability to establish and nurture an environment that promotes cultural competence and equitable treatment of staff, students, and patrons of the District.
Ability to understand and hold self and others accountable for promoting the Federal Way Public Schools' commitment to "Each Scholar: A Voice. A Dream. A Bright Future." 
Ability to recognize that each person is a unique individual even as we celebrate their group cultural heritage.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee will regularly stand and walk, bend neck and back, use hands for repetitive grasping and pushing/pulling.  The employee will frequently be required to sit for extended periods of time and use a computer screen and keyboard. The employee may occasionally be required to squat, kneel, and use hands for fine manipulation, climb stairs/ladder, lift and reach overhead, and lift/carry. The employee must regularly lift/carry up to 5 pounds and must frequently lift /carry up to 15 pounds.  The employee will occasionally lift/carry a maximum of 25 lbs.  The employee is occasionally required to push/pull a maximum weight of 200 pounds.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:  The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job the employee regularly works in  indoor conditions and regularly works near video display.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.  The position constantly deals with frequent interruptions, demanding deadlines, and occasionally deals with angry and distraught employees, students, and community members.
WORK SCHEDULE 
This position typically works, 6.75 hours per day, Monday through Friday.  
REPORTING RELATIONSHIP
This position reports to and is evaluated by the building Principal and/or Designee. This position also receives direction and setting of priorities from the school librarian.
REPRESENTATION
Federal Way Education Association Education Support Professionals (FWEA-ESP)
LEVEL OF COMPENSATION
Level 4 on the FWEA-ESP Salary Schedule. This position includes the following benefits prorated based on FTE - Medical, dental, vision, sick and vacation leave, life insurance, professional development dollars, retirement.
CLASSIFICATION HISTORY
Update 9/1/01
Update with physical demand/working conditions 5/2015
FWEA-ESP review 7/2015
Updated FWEA-ESP job review 11/2019
Disclaimer
The preceding list is not exhaustive and may be supplemented as necessary.  The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the scope of responsibility and the level of knowledge and skills typically required but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements, skills or duties so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed. 
All employment open positions are made available on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, age, disability or veteran status.
Job descriptions are written as a representative list of the ADA essential duties performed by the entire classification. They cannot include, and are not intended to include, every possible activity and task performed by every specific employee.