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Library Assistant Jobs in Fairfield, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Library Assistant information

See Fairfield, IA salary details

$7

$16

$23

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 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.

More about Library Assistant jobs
What cities near Fairfield, IA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Fairfield, IA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Fairfield, IA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,878 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Caregivers/Companion (Mount Pleasant, IA)

Right at Home Iowa City

Mount Pleasant, IA

$17 - $19/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Pay and Benefits:

We believe that our caregivers are the heart of our business. Without you, we couldn’t build meaningful relationships with our clients, put a smile on their face or be the highlight of their day. It is hard to put a price on helping others but we know how important you are and value the impact you would make day in and day out for our clients. In taking this position, you would receive:

  • Competitive pay ($17.00-$19.00 an hour)
    • Pay may vary by location, level of training and type of shift
  • Flexible schedules (Shifts can be arranged to fit your schedule)
  • Medical benefits, including vision and dental (Medical benefits availability is determined by individual franchises)
  • 401 (k) retirement plan
  • Weekly pay
  • Mobile clock in/out
  • Work close to home (Serve seniors in your own community)
  • Ongoing PAID training and development
    • Your local office may offer you a variety of initial and ongoing career training opportunities to help you grow your skills. This could include but not limited to:
      • A ""library"" of senior care reference materials and resources in the office and online
      • On-the-job training for unique client situations
    • Make a difference, develop meaningful relationships and meet new people
    • Give back to those who need you most (our clients need you now more than ever before!)
    • Paid travel time in between clients and paid mileage
    • Extremely positive work environment
    • Employee discount programs
    • Access to leadership
    • Recognition, celebrations and great team interactions!

In this role, we stand prepared to equip you with the right personal protective equipment (PPE) and are ready to assist as you care for our vulnerable population of seniors and adults with disabilities.

 

What You’ll Do and Who You Are:

The good news is that your training will teach you everything you need to know to succeed on the job. But there are a few character traits you should have from the get-go. We have a great work culture at Right at Home and look for people with a similar mindset:

You’re the honest, likable, energetic and approachable type, and are able to get along and verbally communicate easily with people at all levels. You listen well, have great decision making skills and are passionate about your customer focus. You’re never short of a smile and take real pride in your work by being resourceful, accountable, and adaptable and you cope well under pressure, take initiative and thrive on a challenge. Integrity is one of your core values as you do not ethically cut corners. You make a great first impression as you are professional and kind in your demeanor and approach.

You don’t mind getting a little dirty … this could include (but is not limited to) assisting the client with homemaking activities, such as vacuuming, dusting, sweeping or mopping floors, doing dishes, changing bed linens, laundry, and cleaning bathrooms in ways that provide satisfaction and extraordinary results.  During each work shift, the Homemaker/Companion must spend less than 20% of his or her time on general household work.

You establish “partner” relationships with the client by providing companionship during activities such as accompanying client on walks, trips to social/recreational activities, assistance with hobbies, etc.

You don’t have to be a gourmet chef but you can prepare a good meal, work your way around a kitchen and run to the grocery store, if needed.

Must Haves:

  • High school degree and/or a G.E.D. certificate
  • The Homemaker Companion shall have successfully completed a written Competency Evaluati
  • Homemaker Companion must have a sympathetic attitude toward the care of the sick, and the ability to deal effectively with the demands of the j
  • Read, write, speak, and understand English with or without reasonable accommodations as needed for the j
  • Homemaker Companion must be able to lift at least __ with or without reasonable accommodations.
  • Must have a current and valid driver’s license and be able to safely operate a vehicle in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations with or without reasonable accommodations.

If you need assistance with this application or hiring process to accommodate a disability, you may request an accommodation at any time by contacting us. These responsibilities are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees.

Each Right at Home office and business is independently owned and operated under a franchise agreement with Right at Home, LLC. Right at Home, LLC is not the employer or joint employer of the employees of any of its franchised offices. For comments, questions or to learn more about Right at Home, please visit www.rightathome.net.

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