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Library Assistant Jobs in Iowa City, IA (NOW HIRING)

City of North Liberty

Event Assistant

North Liberty, IA · On-site

$16.32/hr

Essential Functions & Duties Assist other event staff and volunteers before, during and after ... library, parks, recreation, fire, police and all other City departments. Other duties as assigned.

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Library Assistant information

See Iowa City, IA salary details

$8

$18

$26

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Iowa City, IA is $18.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Iowa City, IA?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Iowa City, IA are:

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For Library Assistant jobs in Iowa City, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Iowa City, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Iowa City, IA are:

What cities near Iowa City, IA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Iowa City, IA with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Iowa City, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,023 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Library Technician - Circulation Clerk

Muscatine, IA • On-site

City of Muscatine
Public Administration • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about City of Muscatineexternal

$19.77/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

The Musser Public Library is hiring a Library Technician - Circulation Clerk. The Circulation Clerk performs general and specific library circulation functions, provides direct service to patrons, and handles clerical tasks. Patron service is paramount and situational awareness is the key to continued success in this position. As a Library employee this individual is an ambassador of the City of Muscatine and needs to exemplify superior patron service in an often fast-paced, highly variable environment. This position's schedule is 20 hours per week, which includes some evenings and weekend shifts. It reports to the Circulation Supervisor. This is an excellent part-time (20 hours per week) starting at $19.77/hour with some benefits including IPERS, vacation and sick leave, and holiday pay.
Responsibilities:

  • Provide exceptional service to patrons and assist them in the use of library facilities and equipment
  • Check out books and other library materials to patrons
  • Receive returned books and other library materials from patrons and ensure timely handling of materials so they are available for public access
  • Shelve and organize library materials onto proper carts
  • Issue and renew library cards
  • Process holds, including delivery, picklist, and holds shelf returns
  • Accept fees for lost and damaged materials
  • Inspect returned materials for damage and submit to technical services for repair as needed
  • Assist in resolving patron disputes in the absence of a supervisor
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
  • High school graduate or equivalent and one year of experience in customer service, or any equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Knowledge of current library practices
  • Knowledge of personal computers and related hardware, email, the Internet, office software, document imaging, etc., and other standard office equipment
  • Skill in checking information for accuracy and completeness and correcting errors
  • Skill in organizing and prioritizing multiple responsibilities within an assigned framework
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, patrons, and the public
  • Ability to learn computer programs or software and use them effectively to perform duties
  • Ability to handle high volumes of work
  • Ability to work with patrons in a friendly and tactful manner
  • Ability to excel as a productive and positive team member
  • Ability to communicate orally and effectively with patrons and other library staff in English, in person or on the phone
  • Sufficient physical ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods; to reach with arms and hands; to occasionally climb or balance; and to occasionally stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • Sufficient physical ability to engage in extended periods of repetitive use of hands and fingers
  • Sufficient physical ability to push or pull a full book cart and lift up to 25 pounds

Hiring Process
For civil service positions, applications are screened for minimum qualifications. Applicants meeting the criteria will be invited to participate in the civil service testing process.
For non-civil service positions, the hiring process is established in a manner appropriate for the position. It is the City's goal to successfully match the right candidates for the right positions.
It is the policy of the City of Muscatine not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, creed, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, religion, or disability. The City is an EQUAL. OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER, and recognizes the requirements of THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. The City of Muscatine has also made a strong commitment to employees and the public to provide a safe and drug-free work environment through the implementation of a DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING PROGRAM.
The CITY OF MUSCATINE has, and will continue to make, a reasonable commitment toward achieving the spirit and intent of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibit discrimination against the handicapped/disabled.

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