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Library Assistant Jobs in Hamilton, ON (NOW HIRING)

City of Ottawa

Mobile Services Assistant

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$32.08 - CA$37.54/hr

Ottawa Public Library Service: Branch Operations Employment Type: Up to 4 Casual Positions Work Hours: No Fixed Hours Various Shifts: Days, Evenings, Weekends Affiliation: CUPE 503 - Library/Casual ...

Uottawa

Intermediate Technician, User Engagement

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$68K - CA$86K/yr

... library system, point-of-sale terminals, self-borrowing devices, and the interlibrary loan system, to assist users with problems. Explain to users the status of their files and provide information on ...

City of Ottawa

Customer Service Assistant

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$32.08 - CA$37.54/hr

Ottawa Public Library Service: Branch Operations Employment Type: 1 Temporary Full Time Position-Up to 18 months Work Hours: 25 hours per week Affiliation: CUPE 503 - Library/Full Time - Public ...

New

Uottawa

Research Assistant

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$32.84 - CA$51.75/hr

Research Assistant (CUPE) Posting Type: Recherche / Research Course Title: N/A Course Code: N/A ... Applicants must hold a Master's degree in Social Work, have a strong knowledge of library resources ...

AECOM

BIM Specialist

Ottawa, ON

... shared parameters, content libraries, and project documentation. * Provide technical ... standards. * Assist with training, knowledge sharing, and technical support to improve team ...

Roche

Software Engineer

Mississauga, ON · On-site

Contribute to the development of modular software libraries for DNA analysis. Assist in implementing and maintaining continuous integration/deployment pipelines. Algorithm Implementation ...

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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 are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Hamilton, ON?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Hamilton, ON are:

What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Hamilton, ON look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Hamilton, ON are:

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

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

Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Hamilton, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Library Assistant - Access Services

University of Guelph

Guelph, ON • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Department: Library Learning and Curriculum Support
Position covered by the Collective Agreement with USW Local 4120

Temporary full-time from 09/18/2026 to 08/13/2027

Temporary Absence of the Regular Incumbent

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant. 
Career Opportunities (sapsf.com)

General Purpose
As part of the Learning & Curriculum Support team, Access Services develops and implements services that connect library users with experts, collections, technology, and spaces to help users study, engage in research, learn and explore. We do this by providing timely, proactive patron services in Circulation, Research Help, Interlibrary Loan services, and Stack Maintenance.
 
As members of the Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL) network and partner in the shared OMNI discovery system with other Ontario universities, the Access Services Assistant uses a shared library catalogue and patron database to assist faculty, students, staff and researchers. They provide immediate instruction and support to patrons accessing and using library resources and services in-person, by phone, by email, and by chat. Access Services Assistants are also responsible for all aspects of Resource Sharing and Interlibrary Loan for the University of Guelph community. This position is a member of a team of staff that provides services at the Library's Ask Us Desk during days, evenings, late nights and weekends. Team members are expected to perform a variety of duties in a fast-paced, frontline service environment.
 
Duties and Responsibilities
The Access Services Assistant reports to the Manager, Access Services, and is responsible for the following:
  • Patron services and instruction on library resources including communicating and enforcing library policies, instructing students on finding research resources, creating and managing patron accounts, troubleshooting technology and access issues, ensuring confidentiality and privacy for Library users, and referring library users to specialized supports based on their needs.
  • Resource Sharing and Interlibrary Loan services including assessing requests for copyright compliance, creating AODA compliant digital documents, fulfilling requests, and liaising with partner libraries.
  • Team collaboration and student staff training support including attending and participating in team and library meetings, serving on committees, assisting supervisory staff to train and guide student library assistants, and offering peer support to fellow Access Services Assistants in the performance of their work.

Requirements

Two (2) year Library Technician Diploma and at least 6 (six) months relevant library work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.  Advanced digital fluency, including proficiency in library systems, e-learning technologies and content management platforms as well as an ability to create, edit and manage online documents and files. Outstanding customer service ethic and proven customer service skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to build positive relationships with stakeholders and to exercise empathy, diplomacy and tact while working under pressure. Strong self-motivation and dependability.  Ability to work independently and in teams. Strong information organization and retrieval skills. Demonstrated problem-solving ability and willingness to take initiative in a service environment. Awareness of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility principles in service delivery. Strong understanding of the academic environment and library user services.
 
Preferred Qualifications
A bachelor's degree in any subject. Evidence of education or experience in library user services, interlibrary loan, copyright, records management training and/or certificate.
Evidence of training or experience in the Alma LSP environment.

Employee Type: Temporary covering regular incumbent
Position Number: 10400089 
Classification: USW, Local 4120 Salary: Band 4

USW Local 4120 Wage Grid

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 08/17/2026  
Closing Date: 08/23/2026 

Apply