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Library Assistant Jobs in Princeton, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Library Assistant

Trenton, NJ · On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

Library Assistant A09: $41,070.22 - $56,480.81 (Salaries for internal candidates are determined by a promotional formula. Salaries for external candidates are determined up to step 4: $44,494.79, or ...

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Research interior-specific materials for KPF's physical and digital library * Assist with furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) selections and documentation * Contribute to team effort through ...

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Maintain and update the digital color library. * Assist with Pantone chip selection and physical color card creation. * Organize seasonal samples and fabric headers. * Support designers with trend ...

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Library Assistant information

See Princeton, NJ salary details

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$19

$28

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Princeton, NJ is $19.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.36 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Princeton, NJ? The most popular types of Library jobs in Princeton, NJ are:
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What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Princeton, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Princeton, NJ are:
What cities near Princeton, NJ are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Princeton, NJ with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Princeton, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,091 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Library Assistant

Thomas Edison State University

Trenton, NJ • On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Library Assistant

A09: $41,070.22 - $56,480.81 (Salaries for internal candidates are determined by a promotional formula. Salaries for external candidates are determined up to step 4: $44,494.79, or dependent on qualifications)

Research Library of the New Jersey State Library

185 West State Street Trenton, NJ 08608

The New Jersey State Library, affiliated with Thomas Edison State University, connects people with information and resources through its service to NJ libraries, the state legislature and government employees, Thomas Edison State University staff and students, and registered borrowers. Thomas Edison State University provides distinctive undergraduate and graduate education for self-directed adults through flexible, high-quality, collegiate learning and assessment opportunities. One of New Jersey’s senior public institutions of higher education, the University offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in more than 100 areas of study. At Thomas Edison State University and the New Jersey State Library we embrace a diverse and dynamic workforce that drives innovation, learner success and organizational growth. We welcome you to apply to be a part of our team.


Summary:


The Research Library of the New Jersey State Library, affiliated with Thomas Edison State University, connects people with information and resources through its service to all branches of New Jersey state government, NJ libraries, Thomas Edison State University staff and students, and members of the public. The Research Library has a new opening for an entry level library assistant.

Description:


Under the close supervision of a Principal or Technical Library Assistant you will provide support in the maintenance of library collections, including shelving, shifting, or weeding materials as directed. You will be expected to demonstrate excellent organizational skills. Working under close supervision, you will perform routine non-professional library work of a varied nature directly related to the organization, maintenance and distribution of library materials. You will support the Circulation Unit by performing basic circulation functions and assisting patrons in locating materials from the library’s many collections. You may be called on to support basic digitization efforts in any given collection area.

Note: The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.


Examples of Work:


- Obtain books and other library materials for readers and librarians

- Collect books/periodicals/microfilm used by patrons and then return them to their proper location.

- Shelve and shift books and other library materials as required. Maintains the shelves in an orderly condition.

- With detailed instruction, weed materials for removal from designated collections.

- Process updates or supplements to books and treatises received by the library.

- Digitize print and microfilm materials as directed. Save digital copies to be archived by the library.

- Assist patrons in the use of microfilm machines, printers, and photocopiers and troubleshoot errors.

- With detailed instruction, shift books and whole collections.

- Collect and report statistical data for monthly reports or as requested.

- Maintain essential records and files.

Physical Demands:


The ability to lift 30 pounds and to push or pull book carts weighing 40 pounds, retrieve and return library materials to shelves, and hold and carry library materials.


Knowledge and Abilities:


- Ability to learn quickly from oral and written explanations and from demonstrations.

- Ability to perform assigned library clerical work with strong attention to detail and organizational skill.

- Ability to keep accurate, detailed library records and files.

- Ability to understand library filing and classification systems.

- Ability to shelve and shift library materials and retain proper sequence of items.

- Ability to work harmoniously with colleagues and patrons of the library.

- Ability to communicate clearly.

- Knowledge of basic computer skills.

- Knowledge of Microsoft Windows and Office products.

- Ability to read, write, speak, understand or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication

- Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long as they can perform essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible


Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52: 14-7 (L. 2011, Chapter 70), also known as the "New Jersey First Act," which became effective September 1, 2011, all persons newly hired by the College/New Jersey State Library on or after that date shall have one year from the date of employment to establish, and then maintain, principal residence in the State of New Jersey. Employees hired prior to September 1, 2011, who transfer from within the University/New Jersey State Library, or from another State of New Jersey appointing authority without a break in service greater than 7 days but who reside outside of the State of New Jersey, are not required to change their principal residence to New Jersey in order to comply with the Act.


The New Jersey State Library, an affiliate of Thomas Edison State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer