1

Library Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Supervising the Reserve Desk and student library assistants * Creating and maintaining print and electronic reference tools * Contributing to collection development for both online and print ...

Reference Librarian

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Supervising the Reserve Desk and student library assistants * Creating and maintaining print and electronic reference tools * Contributing to collection development for both online and print ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Library Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Riverside, CA 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 Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Library jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA? For Library Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $40,433 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Library - Librarian I

Library - Librarian I

Library Systems & Services LLC

Jurupa Valley, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
JOB SUMMARY
The Librarian 1 is the entry level position to the Librarian job family. The Librarian 1 works alongside members of the Library Management Team and with other key stakeholders to develop policies, procedures, workflows and sustainable approaches for a variety of library programs and services. With more senior Librarian or Director oversight, works both independently and with other staff to execute small to large scale projects. Librarians are responsible for organizing and managing all resources in the library and may supervise Junior Library Associates.
Hours per week: 40
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITES
An individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily.
  • Coordinates and executes a variety of programs and initiatives for the library.
  • Evaluates basic statistical data and prepares basic statistical reports and surveys for the library, LS&S management and other entities i.e. local government/customers.
  • Processes, creates and edits bibliographic and item records for the library catalog.
  • Maintains and updates the library social media presence and webpage and may support social media of other branches.
  • Provides reference and computer help to patrons.
  • Serves on committees and at times may serve as the chairperson for committees.
  • May handle opening and closing responsibilities, counting money, completing daily cash reports.
  • Be responsible for the collection management process.
  • Be a proficient reader advisor.
  • May supervise junior Library Associates which includes managing performance, evaluation, interviewing/hiring, training and approving timesheets.
  • Know and understand the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement and Freedom to View Statement, recognizing that freedom of access is a fundamental tenet of a public library. In addition to these freedoms, support client discretion of materials available at your local library(ies)
  • Follow all legal and policy requirements related to patron privacy and custodianship of patron records.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
JOB REQUIREMENTS
An individual should possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed and meet the amount of education, training and/or work experience required.
  • MLS or MLIS degree required
  • One year librarian experience preferred
  • Proficiency in MS Office suite including Excel, Word and PowerPoint
  • Knowledge of online library databases and services
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Excellent communication skills- both verbal and written
  • Able to work a flexible schedule including weekdays, evenings and weekends

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to move from place to place within the location; lifting of items weighing up to (25) pounds and occasional up to 35 pounds such as files, books, stacks of paper, and other materials.
  • Ability to sit for long periods of time and to maintain focus on projects such as computer screens or detailed paperwork.

Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Retirement Plan (401k)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness Resources

EEO STATEMENT
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.
Salary Description
$25.00