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Library Assistant Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

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Library Assistant information

See Reading, PA salary details

$8

$17

$26

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Reading, PA is $17.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $20.34 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 Reading, PA? The most popular types of Library jobs in Reading, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Reading, PA? For Library Assistant jobs in Reading, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Reading, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Reading, PA are:
What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Reading, PA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Reading, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,318 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Libraries Specialist, Thun Library, Berks campus

Libraries Specialist, Thun Library, Berks campus

Penn State University

Reading, PA • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 611 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Thun Library at Penn State Berks is looking for a Libraries Specialist to assist library patrons with advanced requests, serve as a resource for other part-time library employees, and navigate service interruptions. Applicants must commit to working 15 hours per week (during open library hours), including evenings and weekends, with core hours changing during breaks and summer to align with the academic year. This position is ideal for non-students, students with experience supervising or working independently in a customer service setting, and current Student Library Assistants. All are encouraged to apply. No prior library experience is required; library training will be provided.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Welcome students, staff, faculty, and community members to the library

  • Check out/in books, equipment, and other library materials

  • Confirm study room reservations

  • Provide guidance on user accounts and library services

  • Follow library operation processes and procedures

  • May oversee library operations during opening or closing

  • Assist Student Library Assistants (SLAs) with service questions and override permissions

  • Address building concerns including, but not limited to, disruptive patron behavior or maintenance issues

  • Assist others with technology, referring to PSU IT when necessary

  • Answer general questions about the library and the Penn State Berks campus

  • Assist users and colleagues with advanced requests and support services

  • Refer in-depth questions to the library team and/or appropriate departments

  • Retrieve and shelve materials correctly in a 68,000+ item collection

  • Inform the library team of service concerns or suggestions

Looking for these qualifications:
  • Customer service experience
  • Non-students, students with experience supervising or working independently in a customer service setting, and current Student Library Assistants

  • Ability to clearly communicate through face-to-face and written communication

  • All members of the University Libraries community are responsible for, and expected to, exemplify and promote civility by following the University Libraries Civility Statement and Guidelines.

What We Can Offer:
  • A supportive team to assist, train, and mentor you

  • Reasonable accommodations

  • Opportunities to work with Thun team members on special projects

  • A starting rate of $15.00 per hour

To apply for this position, please submit:
  • Cover letter explaining why this opportunity is an ideal position for you

  • Resume

  • Morning, evening, and weekend availability during open hours (M-F 8:30am - 9pm and Sunday 2pm - 6pm)

Applications will be reviewed beginning August 3, and interviews will be conducted through the end of September. If you have any questions, please contact Melissa Millar, Library Services Manager, at muf107@psu.edu.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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