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Library Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

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 Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Portland, ME is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $21.97 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,320 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Technical Services Assistant - South Portland Public Library

City of South Portland, ME

South Portland, ME • On-site

$26.86 - $30.62/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

The City of South Portland, an inclusive and forward thinking community of 25,000+ located on Casco Bay is currently seeking candidates to fill a full time Technical Services Assistant position.
Position Summary: This position is responsible for delivering high quality library services to the users of the South Portland Public Library, with awareness of and adherence to the tenets of librarianship and intellectual freedom as articulated by the American Library Association.
Participates in the acquisition and cataloging of library materials, maintaining cataloging standards and working with library accounts, including the timely processing of invoices. All duties are performed in a patron-centered environment, making certain that services are delivered effectively, efficiently, and professionally to all users of the South Portland Public Library. All responsibilities require creativity and strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
Reports to the library's Head of Technical Services. May supervise Library Aides and volunteers.
Education: Bachelor's degree in a related field required.
Experience: Five (5) years of public library experience and/or public service experience. Experience with Innovative Interface's Sierra LSP - Cataloging module, in particular - strongly preferred.
Benefits: The City of South Portland offers competitive pay and a robust selection of employee benefits, including an excellent health plan with affordable family coverage, matched retirement options, dental, vision, life, income protection, long term disability, flexible spending accounts and more. The City also offers health insurance "payment-in-lieu" and professional development opportunities. We offer thirteen (13) paid holidays, fifteen (15) sick days annually, fifteen (15) hours of personal time, and vacation commensurate with relevant experience. The City of South Portland is proud of its talented and dedicated workforce and provides employees job stability; a positive, family friendly workplace where work/life needs are valued and supported; and the support, encouragement and tools for successful careers. The City of South Portland values diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and embraces sustainable operations. Come join our team dedicated to service excellence!
Starting wage range: $26.86-$30.62 ($52,377-$58,870/annually) per hour depending on experience. The position is eligible for annual step increases, and possible annual cost of living increases as approved by the City Council.
Application materials will be accepted and reviewed until the position is filled. First round interviews will be determined for all who apply on or before August 14, 2026.
To apply, you may email a cover letter and resume (as a single, combined, pdf document, please) to apply@southportland.gov.
You may also file an application using our fillable pdf at https://www.southportland.gov/Jobs.aspx.
You may also mail a resume with cover letter and three professional references to:
City of South Portland
Genny Dyer, Human Resources Compliance Specialist
25 Cottage Road
P. O. Box 9422
South Portland, ME 04116-9422
Technical Services Assistant Job Description (PDF)

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