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Library Assistant Jobs in Salem, MA (NOW HIRING)

Town of Andover, NA

Library Aide - Makerspace

Andover, MA · On-site

$17/hr

Responsibilities * Assist patrons with their project from initial concept to final product * Train ... Explain library policies * Identify problem situations and seek help where appropriate to resolve ...

Town Of Andover

Library Aide - Makerspace

Andover, MA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Makerspace Assistant Under supervision of a Department Coordinator, assist patrons using the ... Explain library policies * Identify problem situations and seek help where appropriate to resolve ...

Town of Andover

Library Aide - Makerspace

Andover, MA · On-site

$17/hr

Responsibilities Assist patrons with their project from initial concept to final product Train ... of the makerspace Explain library policies Identify problem situations and seek help where ...

Wit

Library Administrative Coordinator

Boston, MA

Stakeholder & Community Support (10%) * Serve as the primary point of contact for student and campus partner requests related to library programming and room reservations. * Assist with the planning ...

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Library Assistant information

See Salem, MA salary details

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$29

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Salem, MA is $20.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library assistant?

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 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 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.

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 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.

Can you be a library assistant with no experience?

Library assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as organization, communication, and familiarity with library systems or tools can be helpful, but many employers consider entry-level candidates and provide training to develop necessary skills.

How hard is it to get a job as a library assistant?

Getting a job as a library assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience with customer service or administrative tasks. Many positions are entry-level and may not require formal certifications, but familiarity with library systems and good communication skills can improve chances. Competition varies by location and library size, but overall, it is generally accessible for those with the appropriate qualifications.

What degree do I need to be a library assistant?

A library assistant typically does not require a specific degree, but a high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient. Some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education or coursework in library science or related fields. Strong organizational skills and familiarity with library systems are also beneficial.

What do you do as a library assistant?

A library assistant helps 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 may perform clerical tasks or help with events. Strong organizational and customer service skills are important for this role.

What qualifications do you need for a library assistant?

Library assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require basic computer skills and familiarity with library management software; additional certifications are not usually required but can be beneficial.
More about Library Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Salem, MA?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Salem, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Salem, MA?

For Library Assistant jobs in Salem, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Salem, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Salem, MA are:

What cities near Salem, MA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Salem, MA with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Salem, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,460 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

PT Substitute Children's Librarian - Library

City of Beverly

Beverly, MA • On-site

$27.95/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Title: PTAssistant Children's Librarian (14hrs/wk + 1 weekend per month)
Supervisor: Head of Children's Services
Grade: N/A
Union: N/A
Minimum professional qualifications: Master's Degree in Library or Information Science from a graduate school program accredited by the American Library AssociationOR currently enrolled in a Master's Degree program in Library or Information Science from a graduate school accredited by the American Library Association with half or more courses completed, including a course in Reference (Librarian I level).
Summary : The Assistant Children's Librarian works under the general direction of the Head of Children's Services.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :
Responsible for the supervision of the Children's Department in the absence of the Head of Children's Services or Assistant Children's Librarian. Keeps informed about issues, services and innovations related to Children's Library Service. The work requires the exercise of considerable skill, initiative, and independent judgment.
  1. Plans, coordinates, and presents services, resources, and programs designed to interest children.
  1. Assists in selecting materials for children's collection.
  1. Conducts story hours and other programs in the library, in schools, and in the community designed to develop among children a love of reading and learning.
  1. Provides tours of the library and instruction in the use of the library resources to children, parents, and teachers.
  1. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with other staff members.
  1. Communicates effectively with the public.
  1. Works closely with local schools.
  1. Performs reader advisory tasks such as recommending Library materials to children, parents and teachers and prepares reading lists and bibliographies, in print, and on the library's web site.
  1. Provides reference services to children and others using the Children's Room in a friendly and professional manner.
  1. Assists in monitoring the behavior and conduct of Library patrons in the Children's Room.
  1. Instructs patrons in the use of the online catalog and other Library resources.
  1. Attends professional and community meetings.
  1. Other duties as assigned.

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 regularly required to sit. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms, climb or balance or stoop.
The employee must lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Interested applicants should submit letter of application and resume to Margie McClory, 32 Essex Street, Beverly, MA 01915 or email mcclory@noblenet.org by September 1, 2026.

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