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Library Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Catlin Gabel School

Associate Librarian

Portland, OR · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

In addition to library-specific duties, the Associate Librarian is expected to engage in the Upper School community by attending assemblies, select faculty meetings, and other school events as ...

Hardeman County Schools

Librarian

Portland, OR · On-site

The applicant should have the library certification. Classroom experience is preferred but not required. Position may require additional responsibilities such as testing and technology

Apply Early

Jefferson College

Music Librarian

Hillsboro, OR

Position Information Position Title Music Librarian Department Music Responsibilities Duties include the management and organization of the sheet music libraries for the wind ensemble, choirs, and ...

Jefferson College

Music Librarian

Hillsboro, OR

Position Information Position Title Music Librarian Department Music Responsibilities Duties include the management and organization of the sheet music libraries for the wind ensemble, choirs, and ...

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All JobsLibrary Assistant JobsLibrary Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

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
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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:
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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.
Associate Librarian

Associate Librarian

Catlin Gabel School

Portland, OR • On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Catlin Gabel School seeks to employ the best qualified individuals from available applicants and to provide them with opportunity for advancement in a manner that does not discriminate because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected under local, state, or federal equal employment opportunity laws or regulations.
The School believes that each employee makes a significant contribution to the school's success. That contribution should not be limited by the assigned responsibilities. Therefore, this position description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications, and job scope, but not limit the incumbent nor the organization to just the work identified. It is our expectation that each employee will offer their services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure the success of our endeavors.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Associate Librarian is a full-time, 1.0 FTE position-working 30 hours per week (0.75 FTE) in the Upper School Library and 10 hours per week (0.25 FTE) in the Middle School Library. The Upper School serves as the Associate Librarian's home department, and the Upper School Librarian serves as the Associate Librarian's primary supervisor, though the role supports both divisions.
In partnership with the Librarians, the Associate Librarian supports the curricular and research needs of students and faculty. Responsibilities include managing circulation services, cataloging a variety of academic materials such as books, ebooks, audiobooks, and other media, overseeing course reserve collections, and providing foundational research support using both print and digital resources, including online databases. In addition to library-specific duties, the Associate Librarian is expected to engage in the Upper School community by attending assemblies, select faculty meetings, and other school events as appropriate to the role.
Pay Range: $22-$27/hour
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
  • Take lead responsibility for circulation functions in the libraries, including running data and reports, and managing overdues.
  • Take lead responsibility for the cataloging and physical processing of MS and US library materials, which include books, audiobooks, DVDs, ebooks, and other formats.
  • Provide firm, effective supervision of busy libraries utilized by students and adults throughout the day.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of academic databases, including JSTOR, Academic Search Premier, Google Scholar, and other relevant tools.
  • Provide basic research assistance to students in support of their coursework.
  • Demonstrate the capability and independence to serve as the person in charge when the Librarians are teaching or meeting with others.
  • Help maintain the libraries as attractive, welcoming, efficiently run spaces for reading, study, and research needs.
  • Generate and create interesting and topical displays for US and MS libraries
  • Engage in reader's advisory and create promotional materials to encourage reading for pleasure
  • Conduct regularly scheduled collection maintenance tasks, including inventory, shelf reading and weeding to maintain a well-managed collections.
  • Close the Upper School library at the end of the school day.
  • Complete other tasks as required.
  • Complete school required annual trainings (CPR, First Aid, mandatory reporting, handling of hazardous materials.)
  • Demonstrate the ability to work with a flexible schedule as developed by the MS Librarian and US Librarian given the current FTE allocation.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES
  • As designated by the Upper School Librarian, in coordination with the Middle School Librarian.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • The Associate Librarian manages student behavior and supervises their work in the MS and US Libraries, including providing academic support and helping build skills and capacity among students.
  • When library volunteers are at work in the MS and US libraries, the Associate Librarian will, at times, supervise their work.

INTERPERSONAL CONTACTS
  • There is constant, daily, direct contact with many students, as well as faculty and staff, and occasional contact with parents.
  • The Associate Librarian occasionally interacts with Facilities colleagues to help the Librarians coordinate events utilizing the library spaces.
  • It is an essential part of the job to establish and maintain positive, productive relationships with students and adults.

COMPETENCIES
  • Adaptability & Problem-Solving: Ability to adjust to new situations and challenges, analyze problems, and implement effective solutions in dynamic environments.
  • Communication & Teamwork: Skilled in conveying information clearly and effectively,
  • fostering collaboration, and working as part of a team to achieve shared goals.
  • Organization & Time Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to
  • prioritize tasks, manage resources, and handle multiple responsibilities efficiently.
  • Cultural Awareness & Crisis Management: Demonstrates sensitivity to diverse perspectives and backgrounds, while maintaining composure and effective leadership during emergencies.
  • Technology Proficiency & Willingness to Learn: Leverages modern technology to improve operations, while staying open to continuous learning and personal development.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Completion of library program coursework required from an accredited college or university or have equivalent practical experience with the job tasks in a library setting.
  • Practical, recent database and library reference experience, and relevant experience in classroom management with groups of teenagers in an educational setting.
  • Experience with MARC record copy cataloging in a library, including various formats such as books, DVDs, audiobooks and ebooks preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • The requirements listed below are representative of physical requirements and may not be all-encompassing. Incumbents must be able to perform job duties with or without accommodations.
  • Work is primarily performed in a school library setting.
  • Position requires remaining in a stationary position for library-related tasks (40%-50% of the time)
  • Requires mobility to safely move about campus and in close quarters to accompany and assure the safety of students.
  • Frequent and consistent operation of a computer and other office machinery (e.g. copier, printer, fax) requiring manual dexterity
  • Frequent bending, squatting, stooping and kneeling.
  • Regularly lifts up 25 pounds.

SCHEDULE
This position is full-time, 1.0 FTE/10-month, Monday-Friday, expected to be on campus from 8am-4:30pm each school day and to attend other functions as designated. Attendance at faculty meetings is expected when relevant to the job.

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