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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 ...

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Administrative Assistant

Bozeman, MT

$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

$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 ...

Administrative Assistant

Bozeman, MT · On-site

$18.75 - $25.25/hr

Job Type Full-time 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 ...

Human Resources Assistant

Belgrade, MT · On-site

$40K - $51K/yr

Human Resources Assistant Assist with all areas of recruitment (job posting, applications, tracking of applicants & hiring process, pre-employment testing, orientation, etc.) Provide assistance to ...

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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 16, 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 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 would a library assistant do?

A library assistant helps with tasks such as checking books in and out, shelving and organizing library materials, assisting patrons in locating resources, and maintaining the cleanliness and order of the library. They often use library management software and may need good customer service skills and attention to detail.

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 require basic computer skills and familiarity with library management software; additional certifications are not usually required but can be beneficial.

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 be a library assistant with no experience?

Library assistants typically do not need prior experience, as many employers provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as organization, communication, and familiarity with library systems or technology can be helpful, but entry-level positions often accept applicants without previous experience.

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.

Is it hard to be a library assistant?

Being a library assistant generally involves tasks such as organizing materials, helping patrons, and using library management software. The job requires good organizational skills, attention to detail, and customer service abilities, but it is not typically considered physically or mentally demanding. Training is often provided, and the work environment is usually quiet and structured.

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 yesterday

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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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