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Library Assistant Jobs in Fairfield, IA (NOW HIRING)

Library Assistant information

See Fairfield, IA salary details

$7

$16

$23

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Fairfield, IA is $16.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $18.46 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.

What cities near Fairfield, IA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Fairfield, IA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Fairfield, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,878 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Administrative Support Assistant 3

Administrative Support Assistant 3

State of Iowa

Fairfield, IA • On-site

$41K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


State Of Iowa rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT ASSISTANT 3- Ft. Madison, IA Join Our Mission - Be the Backbone of Progress Are you ready to make a meaningful impact behind the scenes in Iowa's correctional system. As an Administrative Support Assistant 3 at the Ft.

Madison Office in District 8, you'll play a vital role in keeping our operations running smoothly. This position is perfect for detail-oriented professionals who thrive in fast-paced environments, enjoy organizing information, and want to support a mission-driven team making a difference every day. What You'll Do: As an Administrative Support Assistant 3 (ASA 3), you'll perform a variety of moderately complex administrative and clerical support tasks that ensure efficiency and accuracy across departments.

Key responsibilities include: Working closely with Community Corrections Program Coordinator to coordinate the IDAP Program (upon completion of training) After in-depth training and sufficient experience, the ASA 3 will become an ICON Master Trainer Obtaining NCIC certification to run criminal history checks Being responsible for the clerical duties for Henry and Lee Counties Entering and validating data in databases and internal systems Managing communications and mail flow Preparing, proofreading, and formatting reports, correspondence, and official documents Supporting document management across both physical and digital filing systems Assisting with office supply ordering You'll also support internal teams by providing timely information, handling sensitive data with discretion, and improving operational workflows. What We're Looking For: We're seeking someone who has: Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask Effective communication skills-both written and verbal Familiarity with Microsoft Office, data entry, and modern office systems A customer service mindset with a team-first attitude The ability to handle confidential information with professionalism Why Join Us. Working for the Iowa Department of Corrections means more than just a paycheck.

You'll gain: Great benefits including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans Work-life balance with paid holidays and generous leave policies Opportunities to grow with a supportive team and career advancement paths A meaningful mission-your work will directly support public safety and community rehabilitation Take the next step in your career while helping Iowa's correctional system function at its best. Apply today to join our dedicated team. E-Verify and Right to Work The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees.

Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov

For additional information on benefits click here. Excited to pursue the next step in your career. Apply today.

Background check required. Minimum Qualification Requirements Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification: Two years of full-time work experience in general office, clerical, data entry/processing, or related work. A total of two years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in number one), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience.

Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes six months of full-time work as an Administrative Support Assistant 2 or eighteen months of full-time work as an Administrative Support Assistant 1. For more information click on this link to view the job description Additional Qualification Requirements Within a period of time after hire, as determined by the appointing authority, employees in this class may be required to type at least 40 WPM net as demonstrated by the completion of a typing examination.


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State of Iowa logo

About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939