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Library Assistant Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

County of Chester

Librarian

West Chester, PA · On-site

$28.31/hr

Essential Duties Staff the library's service desk(s) Provide guidance in finding library materials. Provide general reference and advisory services. Assist in collection development and maintenance.

County of Chester

Librarian

West Chester, PA · On-site

$28.31/hr

Essential Duties Staff the library's service desk(s) Provide guidance in finding library materials. Provide general reference and advisory services. Assist in collection development and maintenance.

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Library Assistant information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$8

$18

$27

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Philadelphia, PA 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.
More about Library Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

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For Library Assistant jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $39,212 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Library Page - Ludington Library (Up to 4 Positions)

Lower Merion Township

Ardmore, PA

$14.89/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago

Lower Merion Township rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

810th of 848 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Summary Available Shifts: Sunday: 11:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (September 13, 2026 - June 13, 2027) Monday - Thursday: 6:00 p.m

- 9:00 p.m. (Must be 16 years of age or older) Saturday: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m

Potential to acquire more hours covering fluctuating needs from other day/evening shifts. This is library shelving and clerical work involving circulation duties and customer service. Work involves shelving and shelf-reading, circulation and customer service.

The work requires that the employee have good knowledge, skill and ability to work with the public. Accurately completes tasks and projects as assigned by supervisor. Works under the general supervision of a Department Head or Head Librarian.

Duties Shelves library materials, including books, magazines, newspapers, and audio-visual materials. Shelf-read to assure items are properly located so that patrons are able to find them. Locates library materials for reserve lists.

Assists in library opening and closing procedures, which may include locking/unlocking the library night drop, unloading the night drop, clearing tables, reassembling newspapers, turning lights on/off, turning copiers on/off, and making sure that everyone is out of the building. Assists at the circulation desk including checking materials in and out. Uses the library computer system (Polaris) to register and update borrower information and place reserves.

Answers phones, calculates overdue fines, receives money and makes change. Sorts materials for return to their home libraries. Provides information and directions to patrons.

This may include locating books and materials. Assists with use of copiers, computers, and with e-materials available to patrons through streaming and downloading on various devices. Assists with material withdrawal procedures.

Performs other duties as required. Qualifications Must be 14 years of age or older and provide a work permit if under 18 years of age. Excellent interpersonal communication skills.

Ability to assist adults, teens, and children courteously and efficiently. Ability to perform basic arithmetic computations. Experience in computer operation including Apple devices, Chromebooks, and Microsoft Office is desired.

Ability to successfully pass and maintain the following background checks: (1) Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check, (2) Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Certification, and (3) FBI Criminal Background Check through the Department of Human Services. Physical Requirements Ability to view a computer screen for up to 80% of shift. Ability to sit for a minimum of up to 2 hours and must be mobile for a minimum of 2 hours per shift.

Ability to bend, stoop, squat, reach above shoulder level, kneel, lift, push and pull up to 68% of shift for shelving books and other library procedures. Ability to lift and carry up to 10 pounds up to 68% of shift for shelving books and for moving of library materials. Ability to use both hands for firm grasping, repetitive actions and fine manipulation.

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