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Library Assistant Jobs in Columbus, MS (NOW HIRING)

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Library Assistant information

See Columbus, MS salary details

$8

$18

$26

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Columbus, MS is $18.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do library assistants do?

Library assistants help with daily library operations, including checking out and returning books, organizing materials, assisting patrons, and maintaining the library's collection. They often use library management software and need good organizational and customer service skills. The role typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and may involve working flexible hours.

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.

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 prefer postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with library systems or cataloging software, and good communication abilities are also important. Certification is not usually required but can be beneficial for advancement.

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 get a job in a library without being a librarian?

Yes, library assistants can be hired without being licensed librarians. They typically perform tasks such as shelving, checking out materials, and assisting patrons, often requiring basic customer service skills and familiarity with library systems. Certification is not usually required, but relevant training or experience can be beneficial.

How do I become a library assistant?

To become a library assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include customer service, organization, and familiarity with library systems or cataloging software; some positions may require a postsecondary certificate or coursework in library science. On-the-job training is common, and a friendly, detail-oriented attitude is important for success in this role.

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.

More about Library Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Columbus, MS? The most popular types of Library jobs in Columbus, MS are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Columbus, MS look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Columbus, MS are:
What cities near Columbus, MS are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Columbus, MS with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Columbus, MS as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,973 per year, or $18.3 per hour.
Archives Specialist

Archives Specialist

Mississippi University for Women

Columbus, MS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Justification
Position Information
Click here to view Salary Grade
Position Title
Archives Specialist
Unit Name
General Libraries
Salary Grade
5
Number of Months
12 months
Full-time or Part-time
Full-Time
Hours per week
40
Proposed Annual Salary, Hourly Rate or One-time payment
Essential Duties
  • Assist the Archives and Special Collections Librarian with the oversight of day-to-day operations.
  • Assist the Archivist and Special Collections Librarian with implementation of project planning.
  • Arrange and describe archival materials in accordance with professional standards, best practices, and departmental policies.
  • Supervise and train student workers.
  • Create, update, and maintain archival description and finding aids on ArchivesSpace.
  • Retrieve and store materials from the Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS).
  • Assist with ongoing digital and print-based processing and preservation projects.
  • Troubleshoot software and hardware issues in the Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS).
  • Help with the conservation and preservation of archival materials in the Martha Jo Mims Digitization and Conservation Lab.
  • Staffs the library front desk each week.
  • Work with the Exhibits Committee to develop and mount new exhibits.
  • Provide reference services by answering questions regarding collections and finding aids.
  • Supervise the Martha Jo Mims Digitization and Conservation Lab.
  • Support emergency management related to conservation and preservation, i.e. mold and water damage.
  • Perform other reasonable duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Master's degree in Archives, Archives Management, Library Science or equivalent preferred
  • Requires more than one year of experience working in archives, three years preferred
  • Experience using ArchivesSpace and digitizing records preferred

Other Skills, Abilities and Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of archival theory
  • Adaptability and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work in a collaborative environment
  • Customer service skills
  • Excellent analytical and communication skills
  • Adept at multi-tasking and appropriately prioritizing information
  • Able to work independently
  • Excellent research skills required
  • Excellent computer skills required
  • Competency in Word, Excel, email and Internet searching required
  • Ability to troubleshoot computer hardware issues required

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 is frequently required to stand; sit; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee is regularly required to reach with hands and arms and occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is regularly required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
The work environment is a moderate noise level and will regularly require the employee to work near moving mechanical parts. The employee will occasionally work around fumes or airborne particles and in outdoor weather conditions.
Job Description Summary
Supporting Fant Memorial Library's Beulah Culbertson Archives & Special Collections Department, this position works to preserve and provide access to materials in the archives' collection. Employing archival theory, this position is responsible for processing, arranging, describing, and preserving archival records and making them available to researchers virtually and in-person. Works closely with the archivist to oversee day-to-day operations of the archives.
Hours of Availability
Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm
Background Check Statement
Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. However, failure to disclose may disqualify a candidate.
Requisition Detail Information
Requisition Number
FY20764NF
Open Date
06/29/2026
Will this job have a specific close date?
No
Close Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
Any combination of professional experience, volunteer work, coursework, and other transferable skills may be applied toward the required and desired qualifications listed below. Please direct any questions to Sarah Parrish at separrish@muw.edu.

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