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Library Assistant Jobs in Livingston, MT (NOW HIRING)

Robin Francis, Assistant to the Dean 406-994-4997 robin@montana.edu Classification Title Library Tech II Working Title Library Tech II Brief Position Overview This position provides metadata ...

Greet and assist showroom visitors with warmth and professionalism, ensuring a positive first impression * Promptly connect customers with the appropriate salesperson or department * Coordinate ...

Administrative Assistant

Bozeman, MT · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

ProSidian Seeks a Administrative Assistant in CONUS/OCONUS - Bozeman, MT to support an engagement for an American agency within the United States Department of Agriculture that is committed to ...

Administrative Assistant

Bozeman, MT · On-site

$18.75 - $25.25/hr

Description Kendall Ford of Bozeman is looking for a highly organized, detail-oriented Administrative Assistant to join our growing team. As part of the Kendall Auto Group, one of the largest family ...

Project Engineer

Belgrade, MT · On-site

$75 - $100/hr

... attention. * Assist with execution of machine variants, custom configurations, and ... libraries, service resources, installation resources, training materials, and product development ...

Project Engineer

Belgrade, MT · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

... • Assist with execution of machinevariants, custom configurations, and customer ... libraries, service resources,installation resources, training materials, and product ...

Human Resources Assistant

Belgrade, MT · On-site

$40K - $51K/yr

Description Job Summary: 1. Assist with all areas of recruitment (job posting, applications, tracking of applicants & hiring process, pre-employment testing, orientation, etc.) 2. Provide assistance ...

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Library Assistant information

See Livingston, MT salary details

$8

$18

$27

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Livingston, MT is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $21.35 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.

What cities near Livingston, MT are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Livingston, MT with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Livingston, MT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,200 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

$21/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


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Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Announcement Number
STAFF - VA - 27056
For questions regarding this position, please contact:
Robin Francis, Assistant to the Dean
406-994-4997
robin@montana.edu
Classification Title
Library Tech II
Working Title
Library Tech II
Brief Position Overview
This position provides metadata expertise including establishing controlled vocabularies and assigning semantic topics for library collections, using appropriate schema, to ensure materials in all physical and digital forms are optimally accessible; refines and improves metadata for library collections based on search engine optimization best practices; and creates metadata records in a variety of databases, digital asset management systems, and other applications, using specialized software tools.
Position Number
4M0103
Department
Library
Division
Library
Appointment Type
Classified
Contract Term
Fiscal Year
Semester
If other, specify From date
If other, specify End date
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Union Affiliation
FOCUS-MFPE
FTE
1.0
Benefits Eligible
Eligible
Salary
$21.00 per hour, commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications
Contract Type
Classified Salary
If other, please specify
Recruitment Type
Open
Position Details
General Statement
This position is part of the Collection Access and Technical Services (CATS) department, Cataloging, Metadata and Processing unit. We are looking for a detail-oriented individual who is willing to learn, provide consistent and seamless service, and work collaboratively in a team spirited environment with colleagues and student employees. This position performs data input of library materials including creation and management of records, ensuring all materials meet accessibility standards, and uses of specialized software tools.
Duties and Responsibilities
Primary Duties assigned to this position:
  • Perform copy cataloging and metadata creation for all library materials, all physical and digital forms, according to national standards to ensure all materials are optimally accessible, using a variety of databases, digital asset management systems, and other applications, using specialized software tools.
  • Determine and assign appropriate subject headings and call numbers using appropriate resources.
  • Utilize OCLC to import bibliographic records into Alma, MSU Library's Unified Resource Management (URM) system, and maintain the bibliographic database within the MSU Library's URM by updating and deleting records as required.
  • Manipulate large files of data using specialized software, to add unique local information, and to provide quality control.
  • Partner and work in cross-departmental teams with other MSU Library staff on projects related to record creation and access.

Secondary duties assigned to this position:
  • Provide monthly statistics and activity reports to the Head of Collection Access and Technical Services.
  • Keep abreast of current issues and trends in metadata practices, linked data, and the Semantic Web.
  • Special projects, including, but not limited to reclassification, retrospective conversion, or large-scale database corrections, as needed.

Required Qualifications - Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
1. Two years post-secondary education.
2. Demonstrated competence using personal computers and various software such as word processing, spreadsheets, database, presentation, email, internet, and relational databases (Microsoft Office 365 suite preferred).
3. Ability to follow established procedures and perform work requiring accuracy and attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications - Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
1. Experience working in an academic library.
2. Knowledge of library systems such as electronic databases, online catalogs, and discovery services.
3. Experience using metadata schema, cataloging tools and services available from bibliographic utilities. (Such as AACR2, RDA, MARC, MODS, OCLC Connexion, Ex Libris' Alma, LCSH, and MarcEdit).
4. Experience with specialty cataloging. (Such as music, serials, maps, etc.)
5. Knowledge of various controlled vocabularies (such as LCSH, TGM, AAT, MESH, BISAC, etc.)
The Successful Candidate Will
  • Must be very detail-oriented, and demonstrate ability to manage multiple priorities, and possess strong time management and organizational skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, including sensitivity in working with individuals from all backgrounds.
  • Growth-oriented mindset to learn new systems, tools, and approaches to analysis and problem-solving.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Physical Demands
  • Must be able to shelve and retrieve library materials from shelves up to 11 feet high.
  • Must be able to lift and handle semi-heavy books and to push heavily loaded book trucks.
  • Must be able to work in a dusty environment.
  • Must be able to work at computer terminals for at least 3-4 hours a day.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
This position has supervisory duties?
Yes
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies
1
Desired Start Date
Upon completion of a successful search.
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
Close Date
Applications will be:
Screening of applications will begin on August 28th 2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Special Instructions
This position is not eligible for sponsorship
EEO Statement
Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran's Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran's preference, please complete the veteran's preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.

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