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Library Assistant Jobs in New Brunswick, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Rutgers University

Clerical Assistant

Newark, NJ · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

High School diploma or equivalent, and/or up to 4 years of relevant office, clerical, bookkeeping, library assistant or related experience depending on the duties to be performed. * An equivalent ...

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Library Assistant information

See New Brunswick, NJ salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in New Brunswick, NJ is $19.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.83 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 New Brunswick, NJ?

The most popular types of Library jobs in New Brunswick, NJ are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in New Brunswick, NJ?

For Library Assistant jobs in New Brunswick, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in New Brunswick, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in New Brunswick, NJ are:

What cities near New Brunswick, NJ are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near New Brunswick, NJ with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in New Brunswick, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,100 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Hourly - Library Assistant

Brookdale Community College

Lincroft, NJ

$18.59/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Overview

Perform a variety of library duties, involving specialized knowledge and skills in functional areas to support the library operations. Provide general patron services at the library service desks.

Responsibilities
  • Provide excellent customer service to our students, faculty, staff, and community member patrons at our three Library service desks.  Provide directions, check out and return Library materials, and assist with basic Library services. Protect patron account integrity.
  • Check in returned materials properly, re-sensitizing them and sorting them into proper order for shelving.  Correctly shelve books and multimedia, using the Library of Congress call number system, following training on this task.
  • Answer basic technology questions related to printing and Office software.  Help patrons troubleshoot basic computer issues and wi-fi access, and direct patrons to library staff or information technology department for more complex issues.
  • Aid in Withdrawals by defacing materials of library stickers and stamps before items are discarded. 
  • Maintain records and statistics as required while at service desks or completing projects. 
  • Participate in inventory and collection maintenance projects as assigned, reading shelves for misplaced books, aiding in the inventory tasks, shifting library materials, and other similar duties.  Complete other library tasks as assigned. 
  • Keep up to date with library policies via email maintenance and reading new signage. 
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: 

Education: 

  • Associate's Degree along with 1-2 years of library experience or translatable work skills required. A Bachelor's degree or higher may be substituted for experience.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

  • Must be computer literate with ability to utilize library systems and integrated databases.
  • Ability to complete tasks that require organization, including correctly arranging items in alphabetical and numerical order, with a firm understanding of decimal number order.
  • Strong customer service skills with the patience to handle repetitive questions.
  • Experience in an academic library preferred. 
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills necessary.

Preferred Qualifications & Spefcial Considerations

Knowledge of Monmouth County and its communities. Working conditions are generally favorable. Must be able to work flexible hours outside of normal 8:30-5:00. Must be able to push a cartload loaded with material weighing up to 150 lbs. 

Pay Rate$18.59/hrEmployment Type: OTHER

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