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Library Assistant Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Work includes helping library patrons at our busy main desk, checking library items in and out, registering people for library cards, answering phones, and booking study and meeting rooms. This is a ...

Library Assistant

Verona, WI · On-site

$20.23/hr

Verona Public Library Job The Verona Public Library seeks a dynamic, enthusiastic, and detail-oriented person who possesses a strong dedication to customer service. Work includes helping library ...

Library Assistant

Verona, WI · On-site

$20.23/hr

Work includes helping library patrons at our busy main desk, checking library items in and out, registering people for library cards, answering phones, and booking study and meeting rooms. This is a ...

Library Assistant

Verona, WI · On-site

$20.23/hr

Library, 500 Silent St., Verona, WI Job Type: Part-time Job Number: 202600167 Department: Library Opening Date: 06/22/2026 Closing Date: 7/5/2026 11:59 PM Central Summary of Job The Verona Public ...

Library Assistant

Verona, WI · On-site

$20.23/hr

Library, 500 Silent St., Verona, WI Job Type: Part-time Job Number: 202600167 Department: Library Opening Date: 06/22/2026 Closing Date: 7/5/2026 11:59 PM Central Summary of Job The Verona Public ...

Library Service Assistant

Madison, WI · On-site

$17.95 - $20.96/hr

The Library Services Assistant serve as an important point of contact for students and provide para-professional support to librarians, Student Achievement Centers and special projects as needed.

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Library Assistant information

See Madison, WI salary details

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How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Madison, WI is $18.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $21.30 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Library jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Madison, WI? For Library Assistant jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Madison, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,161 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Library Assistant

$20.23/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Summary of Job The Verona Public Library seeks a dynamic, enthusiastic, and detail-oriented person who possesses a strong dedication to customer service. Work includes helping library patrons at our busy main desk, checking library items in and out, registering people for library cards, answering phones, and booking study and meeting rooms. This is a part-time position averaging 15 hours/week.

The starting wage is $20.23/hour. Depending on previous work history, the candidate may qualify for benefits. The schedule for this position includes Monday, Tuesday, and Friday afternoons and evenings plus approximately one weekend (Saturdays and Sundays) a month

Job Duties and Responsibilities Duties/Examples of Work Provides enthusiastic service to the public as the first and last points of contact. Checks materials in and out, creates patron accounts, collects fees, and makes meeting/study room reservations. Checks in deliveries of interlibrary loan materials, shelves holds, runs the holds action list and the expired holds list, pulls expired holds from the holds shelf, and processes periodicals.

Empties book drop and takes returned items to the proper place for check in. Places materials on hold for patrons through the library catalog and assists patrons with outerlibrary loan requests. Assists patrons with basic reference and reader's advisory service.

Directs patrons to proper staff for more detailed reference and reader's advisory service. Assists patrons with computers and other library equipment. Uses library policies and procedures to resolve patron issues and complaints.

Assists with collection maintenance, such as weeding and shelf-reading collections. Assists with inventory of library materials. Assists with library programs, organizes special displays and distributes publicity.

Processes, repairs, or reconditions library materials. Performs light housekeeping. Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge and Abilities Ability to maintain and foster cooperative and courteous working relationship with the public, peers and supervisors. Ability to effectively respond to questions from patrons and staff. Ability to maintain confidentiality of library patron information.

Ability to follow detailed instructions. Ability to maintain a regular work schedule. Ability to use computers and library-related software and databases effectively.

Ability to understand library policies and procedures and apply them to library operations. Ability to understand library principles, technology, goals, and philosophy of services. Ability to work independently and collaboratively, organize and prioritize work, respond to varied/changing work demands as required.

Ability to identify areas for improved service and recommend changes. Ability to provide inclusive and equitable services to diverse populations. Ability to direct the work of Library Pages as needed.

Working knowledge of English grammar and spelling. Applicants with Spanish language or ASL proficiency are encouraged to apply. Physical Demands Bending, twisting, reaching, stooping, kneeling, and crouching.

Keyboarding, writing, sorting, and shelving Processing, picking up and shelving books. Lifting and carrying weighing 50 pounds or less. Pushing and pulling objects weighing 300-400 pounds on wheels.

Reaching down to the ground and up to 80 inches in height with the aid of a footstool. Near vision needed to read faded type font size 12 or smaller on item labels, frequent reading on computer monitors. Far vision needed to observe patrons in need of assistance from a distance of 20 feet or further.

Mental Demands Ability to remain calm under pressure. Ability to apply technical knowledge. Ability to comprehend and follow verbal and written instructions from supervisors.

Ability to identify problems and opportunities and suggest improvements. Ability to follow regulations, procedures, and instructions. Ability to effectively communicate ideas and information both in written and verbal form.

Ability to do basic cash handling transactions. Ability to set priorities. Environmental/Working Conditions The environment is a busy public library whose patrons represent a socially, culturally, and economically diverse community.

Work takes place in a normal office setting with moderate noise levels. Position may require daytime, evening, weekend hours, and occasional travel to meetings outside the library. Equipment Used Computers, library automation system, RFID software, barcode label maker, Microsoft Office software, databases, audiovisual equipment, book truck, cash box, copy machine, fax machine, scanner, and telephone.

Qualifications Education and Experience At least two years of study at an accredited college, university or technical school. Customer service experience is required Public library experience is preferred.