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Library Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Saco School Department

Library Ed Tech III

Saco, ME · On-site

Fairfield School Library Ed Tech III (2026-2027 school year) Job Summary: * Assist in reinforcement in reading, language arts, mathematics, computer instruction, media and other skills. * Work with ...

Saco School Department

Library Ed Tech III

Saco, ME · On-site

Library Ed Tech III (2026-2027 school year) Job Summary: * Assist in reinforcement in reading, language arts, mathematics, computer instruction, media and other skills. * Work with students ...

Waynflete

Assistant Extended Day Teacher

Portland, ME · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

The Assistant Extended Day Teacher is a part time, 10-month, on-site position that reports to the ... Use of school fitness facilities, libraries and Fore River campus * Professional development ...

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Library Assistant information

See Portland, ME salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Portland, ME is $19.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $21.63 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.

More about Library Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Portland, ME? The most popular types of Library jobs in Portland, ME are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Portland, ME? For Library Assistant jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Portland, ME look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Portland, ME are:
What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Portland, ME with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Portland, ME as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,771 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Assistant Librarian - Library Services

Assistant Librarian - Library Services

Verrill

Portland, ME

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Verrill is actively reviewing resumes for an Assistant Librarian for our Portland, Maine office. As one of New England’s top full-service law firms, we are interested in hiring talented individuals to join our team. Verrill offers a competitive salary and benefits package, as well as a collaborative work environment in which our employees can grow and prosper both professionally and personally.

Reporting to the Director of Library Services, the Assistant Librarian supports a broad range of library operations, including administrative tasks, reference services, and special projects. This role helps maintain library resources, organize materials, update records, support research workflows, and coordinate library initiatives. The Assistant Librarian also contributes to daily service needs, ensuring the library remains organized, accessible, and responsive to Verrill’s information needs.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: cataloging and maintaining library records; filing updates in print resources and managing incoming library mail; distributing periodicals according to the Library Distribution List; processing book orders and interlibrary loan requests; assisting with library billing and maintaining administrative records; responding to quick reference and basic troubleshooting requests; maintaining the organization and appearance of library spaces; supporting inventory, database updates, and other routine administrative tasks; and assisting with special projects and library initiatives. This is a fulltime, hourly position.

The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated selfstarter with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and at least one (1) year of relevant experience. Experience with records information management software, PDF editors, Microsoft Office Suite, and document management systems is preferred, as is the flexibility to travel when needed. The successful candidate will produce highquality work in a timely and professional manner while providing exceptional client service and team support in a fastpaced environment.

Strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and effective communication and customer service abilities are essential. Applicants should demonstrate proven projectmanagement skills, the ability to prioritize tasks successfully, and an enthusiasm for working collaboratively as part of a team.

Applications will be reviewed in the order they are received, and the position will remain open until filled. Need help applying? Please contact the Talent Acquisition Team.

Verrill is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

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