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Library Assistant Jobs in Durham Region, ON (NOW HIRING)

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Library Assistant information

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 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 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.

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 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.

Can you be a library assistant with no experience?

Library assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as organization, communication, and familiarity with library systems or tools can be helpful, but many employers consider entry-level candidates and provide training to develop necessary skills.

How hard is it to get a job as a library assistant?

Getting a job as a library assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience with customer service or administrative tasks. Many positions are entry-level and may not require formal certifications, but familiarity with library systems and good communication skills can improve chances. Competition varies by location and library size, but overall, it is generally accessible for those with the appropriate qualifications.

What degree do I need to be a library assistant?

A library assistant typically does not require a specific degree, but a high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient. Some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education or coursework in library science or related fields. Strong organizational skills and familiarity with library systems are also beneficial.

What do you do as a library assistant?

A library assistant helps 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 may perform clerical tasks or help with events. Strong organizational and customer service skills are important for this role.

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.
More about Library Assistant jobs

What cities near Durham Region, ON are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Durham Region, ON with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Durham Region, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Administrative Assistant I, SMART Program - Temporary, Part-time 0.6

VON Canada (Ontario)

Owen Sound, ON • On-site

CA$17.63 - CA$22.65/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Temporary

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Requisition Details:
 
Employment Status: Temporary, Part-time (0.6 FTE)
Program Name: SMART Program
Number of Hours Bi-Weekly: 45 
Work Schedule: Days
Union/Bargaining Unit: OPSEU 
Anticipated End Date: June 2027
On Call: No
Existing Vacancy: Yes - we're currently hiring candidates for an existing vacancy in this position.
 
About us: 
VON Canada is a not-for-profit organization providing home and community care services for over 125 years. Focusing on person-centred care, we provide the support people need and want, at home and in the community, so they can live healthier, happier lives surrounded by loved ones.
VON - At the heart of care. 
 
About the role:
 
Are you passionate about health care and ready to make a meaningful impact in your community? This exciting opportunity is perfect for a detail-oriented administrative assistant who thrives in a collaborative setting. From welcoming clients and coordinating schedules to preparing documents and managing communications, your work will help ensure smooth day-to-day operations that allow our teams to focus on what they do best: caring for our clients.
 
What we offer:
  • Competitive salaries, vacation time, and paid statutory holidays  
  • Tiered Benefits (health, dental, LTD) for eligible employees and an Employee Assistance Program 
  • Defined Benefit Pension Plan with company contribution for eligible employees 
  • Comprehensive orientation program 
  • Gain experience with new health care technology 
  • Opportunities for skill development, eLearning, and career advancement 
What you'll do:
  • Act as a first point of contact for any general inquiries, including answering phone calls and ensuring staff, volunteers, clients, and visitors are greeted and directed to the appropriate resource in a friendly, courteous manner
  • Ensure incoming and outgoing correspondence is distributed
  • Schedule and organize meetings and appointments as requested
  • Prepare general correspondence, memos, minutes, invitations, reports, and other documents
  • Assist in the production of newsletters and in standardizing processes and forms
  • Manage filing systems for all clients, personnel, and general files, ensuring accuracy, security, and confidentiality
  • Input relevant information and produce reports, statistics, and data as directed
  • Order supplies, receive, and maintain an inventory of required supplies
  • Collaborate with teams to organize logistics for special projects, events, and seminars
  • Receive donations and bill payments, provide receipts, and prepare bank deposits
  • Perform other duties as assigned
What we’re looking for:
  • Post-secondary education in office administration or a related field, or relevant experience
  • Proficiency in Windows OS and MS Office Suite programs
  • Experience with scheduling software is considered an asset
  • Experience with a unionized environment is considered an asset
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Strong organizational skills with an ability to prioritize and multitask
  • High level of accuracy and attention to detail
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times
  • A current and original copy of a satisfactory Criminal Records Check or vulnerable sector check is required
VON Canada: Careers that fit your life. Join our team today!
 
A quick note: This posting is for recruitment purposes. Full job descriptions are available.
 
Working conditions and physical demands: This role requires a detail-oriented approach in a dynamic environment, with physical activity including lifting, carrying (using proper techniques), bending, reaching, kneeling, and other movements that emphasize good body mechanics. Individuals in the role are required to walk, sit, stand, and climb stairs throughout the day, with some tasks requiring fine hand movements.
 
Attention Current Employees (Internal Applicants): If you are applying to a unionized position and you are a member of its bargaining unit, please be aware that this posting may remain open beyond the deadline if there are not enough applicants to fill the position(s).  If the posting remains open after the initial deadline, VON may close the posting at its’ discretion or a rolling deadline equivalent to the posting period specified in your Collective Agreement will be deemed, and each successive period will be treated as a separate posting for purposes of comparing seniority between candidates.