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Library Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Library Assistant information

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How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Reston, VA is $19.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $22.02 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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Library jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Reston, VA? For Library Assistant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Director of Library

Director of Library

Washington Adventist University

Takoma Park, MD • On-site

$65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Title:Director of the Library
Department:Weis Library
Reports To:Provost
Salary Range:$65,000
FLSA Status:Exempt
OVERVIEW OF THE UNIVERSITY
Washington Adventist University (WAU) is a Christ-centered institution of higher education that supports a culture of excellence where all feel valued. Nestled in a desirable residential community in Takoma Park, Maryland, WAU offers its faculty and staff an environment where professional expertise is valued, and lasting connections between co-workers are formed as we work together to ensure the success of our students.Regardless of the title, every employee supports WAU's vision of producing graduates who bring moral leadership and competence to their communities.
SUMMARY
Responsible for the overall functioning of the Theofield G. Weis Library and the Curriculum Library, including recruitment, administration, and supervision of staff.With the approval of the Provost, formulates policies for the library and prepares the operating budget.Works with department chairs to ensure that resources and allocations are sufficient to meet the curriculum needs of the University and that students and faculty receive library instruction as needed and appropriate.
Is directly responsible for the safety and security of the collection; and with the advice of the Library Committee, develops plans and resources to anticipate the changing needs of the faculty, administration, and students and works with the faculty to provide for the growth of the collection and the promotion of library services and resources to the campus community.Serves as an active member of the WAU shared governance system as appropriate.Responsible for making sure that issues of building maintenance, safety, and security are addressed by working with the appropriate University offices and personnel.Plans and administers the provision of library services by performing the following duties personally or through subordinate supervisors:
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.Other duties may be assigned.
General Library Administration
It is the responsibility of the director of the library to carry out the following administrative functions:
  • Provide leadership for and management of the University's library services.
  • Provide information, operational and usage reports and schedules to the Provost.
  • Assists University faculty, staff and students in resolving problems associated with library services.
  • Formulate policies and procedures.
  • Achieve financial objectives by preparing an annual budget, scheduling expenditures; analyses variances; initiating corrective action.
  • Recruit, train, supervise, and appraise library personnel
  • Delegate supervisory/administrative responsibilities to library personnel as appropriate
  • Foster marketing and public relations activities
  • Supervise the purchase of resources, supplies, and equipment
  • Exercise responsibility for library equipment and inventories
  • Maintain essential library records
  • Manage the library facility, including space allocation, maintenance, and repairs
  • Prepare various reports
Performs the following duties personally or through subordinate supervisors:
Resources Management and Education
  • Organize the library's resources for optimum access and usage
  • Disseminate information about the current library services to students, faculty and staff.
  • Develop subject-specific informational material for academic support.
  • Assist the Webmaster in ensuring information is current on the Weis Library web page.
  • Acquire needed resources as identified by departmental requests and library staff research and recommendations
  • Consult with departments in regard to existing and needed resources
  • Develop and provide for professional development and in-service training of library staff.
  • Provide library instruction
Technology
  • Coordinates the introduction of technological advances in information access into the library to support student learning outcomes.
  • Makes recommendations for the upgrade of library technology as needed.
Consortial Relationships
  • Maintain satisfactory working relationships with consortiums, including the following:
  • Adventist Library Information Cooperative (ALICE)
  • Maryland Digital Library (MDL)
  • Attend consortium meetings as scheduled
  • Participate in consortium-wide planning and budgeting
Professional Development
  • Encourages library personnel to develop professionally by being members of professional organizations as appropriate and by attending conferences, seminars, workshops, etc.
  • Participates personally in local, regional, and national professional organizations
Statistics and Reports
  • Keeps and tabulates pertinent library statistics
  • Prepares narrative and statistical reports as required
Additional Duties
  • Shares evening and weekend supervisory and reference responsibilities
  • Performs other duties as requested/assigned
SUPERVISIORY RESPONSIBLITIES
  • Supervision Received:
    • Reports directly to the Provost
  • Supervision Given:
    • Supervises all library employees, including professional librarians, paraprofessional staff, student library assistants, etc.
    • Delegates supervisory/administrative responsibilities as appropriate
    • Plans, assigns, and directs work
    • Appraises performance
    • Rewards/disciplines
    • Addresses complaints and resolves problems.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required
  • Master's Degree in Library or Information Science from an ALA accredited program or its foreign equivalent.
  • Demonstrated commitment to the use of new information technologies
  • Experience using print and digital resources, online databases, and the Internet.
  • Understanding of and commitment to the concept of information literacy.
  • Active service orientation.
  • Effective oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Excellent managerial and organizational skills.
Preferred
  • Experience working in an academic environment that is associated with a consortium
  • Experience with OCLC WorldShare Management Services.
  • At least five years of appropriate library administrative experience
Language Skills:
  • Excellent communication, written and verbal, and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to read, analyze and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents.
  • Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community.
  • Ability to effectively present information to various audiences.
Interpersonal Skills:
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse and multi-cultural student body and staff.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with diverse constituencies.
Mathematical and Technology Skills:
  • Knowledge and use of computer and its applications
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, Word and Excel.
Managerial/Leadership Skills
  • Ability to meet deadlines and handle multiple projects.
  • Demonstrated ability to plan, prioritize, and problem-solve.
Other Skills and Abilities:
  • Demonstrates and fosters excellence in teaching and service; values research
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to see, talk, and hear; to use hands to handle books and other objects; and to reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee must regularly use stairs.
  • The employee must regularly lift books and occasionally lift boxes of books and other heavy objects, such as computers and printers.
  • The employee will frequently be called upon and must be able to work long hours under stressful conditions.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The employee is occasionally required to travel.
BENEFITS:
The full fringe benefit plan includes but is not limited to:
  • Health care, including vision, dental, and prescription drugs
  • Flexible Spending Plans
  • Competitive 403B plan
  • Individualized retirement planning sessions
  • Tuition assistance for employees and dependents
  • Life insurance including supplemental and accidental death and dismemberment policies
  • Long Term Disability
  • Legal Assistance Program
  • Paid time off
  • Wellness programs
  • Professional Development
LEGAL AND COMPLIANCE NOTICES
Washington Adventist University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or disability in employment or in the provision of services. WAU complies with all applicable federal and state laws, including the Maryland Fair Employment Practices Act.
If you require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, please contact the Office of Human Resources.
Washington Adventist University provides reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans
with Disabilities Act and Maryland law.As a religiously affiliated institution, Washington Adventist University exercises its constitutional and statutory rights to give preference in employment to members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and reserves the right to claim exemption from certain provisions of Title IX and Title VII where they conflict with the university's religious beliefs and values.