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Library Assistant Jobs in Odenton, MD (NOW HIRING)

Supervisory Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$143K - $187K/yr

Assess the availability of financial and human resources, independently plan, schedule, coordinate and carry out activities related to the library acquisitions program. Assist in preparing and ...

Librarian (Reference)

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

Summary The Library of Congress shares its vast collections of books, manuscripts, photographs ... Develop knowledge of collections for use in performing research tasks. Assist in preparing research ...

Librarian (Cataloger)

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

Summary The Library of Congress shares its vast collections of books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, audiovisual materials, and priceless artifacts to cultivate curiosity and spark imagination. We ...

Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

Summary The Library of Congress shares its vast collections of books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, audiovisual materials, and priceless artifacts to cultivate curiosity and spark imagination. We ...

Showing results 41-60

Library Assistant information

See Odenton, MD salary details

$10

$21

$30

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Odenton, MD is $21.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $23.80 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 are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Odenton, MD?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Odenton, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Odenton, MD?

For Library Assistant jobs in Odenton, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Odenton, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Odenton, MD are:

What cities near Odenton, MD are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Odenton, MD with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Odenton, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,700 per year, or $21 per hour.

Supervisory Librarian

Library of Congress

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$143K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Summary
The Library of Congress shares its vast collections of books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, audiovisual materials, and priceless artifacts to cultivate curiosity and spark imagination. We engage, inspire, and inform Congress and the American people with a universal and enduring source of knowledge and creativity.
We seek highly talented professionals to join a vibrant and collaborative community. Your work here will have lasting impact on the Library and its users well into the future.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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This position is located in the Directorate of Acquisitions and Bibliographic Access (ABA) and may be used in any division within U.S. Arts, Science, and Humanities Division. The incumbent of this position serves as Section Head and is responsible for managing the work, including acquisitions and cataloging functions, of the section, overseeing the work of a staff of librarians and library technicians performing these functions, and performing administrative and human resource management functions relative to the staff supervised. The incumbent serves under the administrative supervision of the division chief. The incumbent works highly independently, exercising considerable judgment, and carries out duties and responsibilities in accordance with broad overall guidelines and policies.
As the Supervisory Librarian, you will:
  • Supervise a group of employees performing work up to the GS-13 level. Provide administrative and technical supervision necessary for accomplishing the work of the unit. Determine the human resources needed to accomplish the work of the unit, and independently plans, schedules, coordinates and carry out the unit's activities. Perform the administrative and human resource management functions relative to the staff supervised. Establish guidelines and performance expectations, including quality assurance, for staff members which are clearly communicated through the formal employee performance management system. Observe workers' performance and demonstrates and conduct work performance critiques. Provide informal feedback and annual formal evaluations to employees.
  • Resolve informal complaints and grievances. Develop work improvement plans, recommending personnel actions as necessary. Provide advice and counsel to workers related to work and administrative matters. Effect disciplinary measures as appropriate to the authority delegated in this area. Reviews and approve or disapprove leave requests. Assures that subordinates are trained and fully comply with safety regulations.
  • Serve as an expert in the organization, development, and implementation of multiple projects. Serve as a project leader, team leader, or chairperson for working groups, task forces, committees, etc. Coordinate the details involved in special projects of lasting importance. Utilize critical judgment to determine scope, emphasis, approach, appropriate techniques, and manner of presentation. Develop technical standards or protocols applicable to a library function. Participate in planning the work of a unit, including formulating goals and objectives and identifying improvements in methods and procedures. May serve as COTR or administer service contracts.
  • Make significant recommendations to change, interpret, or develop important or innovative policies, programs, approaches, or analysis methods. Assess the availability of financial and human resources, independently plan, schedule, coordinate and carry out activities related to the library acquisitions program. Assist in preparing and overseeing the acquisitions budget. Ensure the comprehensiveness and accessibility of library collections. Make extensive unreviewed technical judgments regarding library operations. Evaluate offers of gifts for compatibility with library acquisition policies and recommend acceptance or rejection. Select experts to represent the library at auction sales.
  • Interpret and revise existing training policy and program guidance for use by others, including section, division, and/or directorate members. Independently plan, schedule, coordinate, and monito the effectiveness of training operations. Solve problems in particularly difficult circumstances. Plan new or significantly updated methods of training, incorporating the latest in information technology. Prepare/edit instructor manuals, technical manuals, training manuals, or user manuals. Analyze training needs at the section and division levels in order to identify or develop appropriate training. May also conduct formal classroom training as necessary.
  • Performs various other duties as assigned.
  • The position description number for this position is 137599.
  • The salary range indicated reflects the locality pay adjustments for the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan area.
  • The incumbent of this position will work a Flexitime work schedule. This is a supervisory, non-bargaining unit position.
  • Relocation expenses will not be authorized for the person(s) selected under this vacancy announcement.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
Conditions of Employment
The Supervisor leads his/her staff toward meeting the Library's vision, mission, and goals by acting decisively, leveraging diversity and inclusiveness, demonstrating flexibility and resilience, fostering continuous improvement and innovation, and fostering integrity and honesty. To view the Library's Supervisory Core Competencies click the following link: Supervisor Core Competencies
Library of Congress employees are prohibited from using illegal drugs, including marijuana. The Library is part of the Federal Government and abides by federal law, so regardless of individual state or District of Columbia laws, marijuana use is illegal, considered criminal activity, and can affect your employment at the Library. In addition, past or current drug use and activities (e.g., selling or distributing) may deem you ineligible for employment.
Qualifications
Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.
Ability to supervise, motivate, and lead a diverse workforce. **
Knowledge and application of the principles, concepts, and techniques of library science. **
Ability to analyze, plan, develop, and execute library programs and projects. **
Ability to provide consultation or liaison duties.
Ability to provide training.
Knowledge of automated tools, technologies, and metadata standards, such as integrated library systems, digital library applications, and general office software.
Ability to communicate in writing.
Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing.
Additional information
Although it is the Library's policy to afford the maximum pay benefit to employees when setting rates of pay, a new appointee who has had no previous Federal service will generally be paid at step one of the grade.
The Library of Congress is an equal opportunity employer. All who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply.
Applicants must submit a complete application package that is received by the closing date of this announcement.
This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please email ADA@loc.gov. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position. The proof or disability/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant's college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application. Certification from health care providers are not accepted. For more information contact the Library's Office of Equal Employment Opportunity at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM.
The Library of Congress is the national library of the United States and is part of the Legislative Branch of the Federal government. As such, all positions are in the excepted service.
Appointment/retention is subject to a favorable evaluation of an appropriate personnel security/suitability investigation. For more information, please see: https://www.loc.gov/careers/working-at-the-library/frequently-asked-questions/vetting-personnel-at-the-library/
The Library reserves the right to fill a lesser or greater number of vacancies indicated during the life of this vacancy announcement.
Initial permanent appointments to the Library of Congress require completion of a one-year probationary period. In addition, per Library of Congress Regulation 9-532, an appointee or internal selectee is subject to a one-year supervisory probationary period if this is their first supervisory/managerial position at the Library of Congress. Probationary periods served at other Federal agencies do not count toward this requirement.
The Library of Congress may offer repayment for all or part of federally insured student loans. However, not all service units within the Library of Congress participates in the repayment of federally insured student loans. Therefore, determination to repay a federally insured student loan is subject to approval by the appropriate service unit.
The selected applicant may be required to file a financial disclosure statement with the House of Representatives, U.S. Congress, in accordance with the provisions of Public Law 95-521, Ethics in Government Act of 1978.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.