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Library Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Library Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$9

$19

$29

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Portland, OR is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.45 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, OR? The most popular types of Library jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Portland, OR? For Library Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,210 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Library Assistant

City of St. Helens, Oregon

Saint Helens, OR • On-site

$18.69/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The City of St. Helens is currently seeking a dedicated professional to fill the role of Part-Time Library Assistant at the esteemed St. Helens Public Library. Located in the picturesque city of St. Helens, Oregon, this position starts at $18.69 per hour.
WHAT SETS US APART
At the City of St. Helens, we're more than just a municipality - we're a tight-knit community united by a shared commitment to progress and prosperity. Our mission is simple: to enhance the quality of life for all residents through innovative solutions and responsive public service. Guided by our core values of integrity, accountability, and inclusivity, we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where every voice is heard, and every individual is valued.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR IN A LIBRARY ASSISTANT

  • Ability to serve as the library patron's first point of contact
  • Experience working with customers or patrons in a fast-paced work environment
  • Ability to perform a wide variety of tasks including helping patrons search the library catalog, helping patrons using the public computers, and checking out/in library materials
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and integrated library systems
  • Ability to assist library staff in developing library programs, including brochures and flyers, children's activities, and makerspace offerings
  • Experience collecting money and balancing a daily till

YOUR NEW ROLE AS OUR LIBRARY ASSISTANT
This library assistant position works a rotating schedule of 20 hours per week in five-hour shifts Monday through Saturday, between 9:30 am and 7:15 pm, including periodic Saturdays and weekly evening hours as required by operational needs.
As a library assistant you will be one of the library's first contacts with our patrons. We pride ourselves in serving the public cheerfully and professionally. A typical day will include greeting patrons as they arrive; helping them find materials both in the catalog and in the library; checking in and out materials; using the till to take payment and give change for a variety of purposes; and sometimes assisting with programs. You will work closely with the three other library assistants and with the full-time professional staff.
If you are 18 years of age or older, meet the qualifications outlined above, and are eager to contribute to the educational and cultural enrichment of our community, we encourage you to apply for the Library Assistant position. Our initial application process is simple and can be completed in just a few minutes. Take the first step toward joining our dedicated team!
First review will be July 9, 2026.
If you are a veteran and would like to receive veterans' preference points, please contact Human Resources Coordinator Kathy Payne at 503-366-8217 or by email at for paperwork.
The City of St. Helens is an equal opportunity employer.
Successful candidates will be required to pass a background investigation, including criminal records, driving records, and personal and professional references, including past employers.

Apply