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Library Assistant Jobs in San Rafael, CA (NOW HIRING)

Patient Navigator

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$66K - $83K/yr

Trial Library is an AI-native research platform with a mission to improve healthcare outcomes by ... Provide individualized counseling on social determinants of health and assist patients with ...

Patient Navigator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$66K - $83K/yr

Trial Library is an AI-native research platform with a mission to improve healthcare outcomes by ... Provide individualized counseling on social determinants of health and assist patients with ...

Patient Navigator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$66K - $83K/yr

Trial Library is an AI-native research platform with a mission to improve healthcare outcomes by ... Provide individualized counseling on social determinants of health and assist patients with ...

Research Assistant.

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $31.25/hr

Perform ready reference services as needed (locating and obtaining articles, dockets and court documents). * Assist librarian with organization, assessment and development of print and electronic ...

Research Assistant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $31.25/hr

Perform ready reference services as needed (locating and obtaining articles, dockets and court documents). * Assist librarian with organization, assessment and development of print and electronic ...

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Library Assistant information

See San Rafael, CA salary details

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How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in San Rafael, CA is $20.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $23.56 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 San Rafael, CA? The most popular types of Library jobs in San Rafael, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in San Rafael, CA? For Library Assistant jobs in San Rafael, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in San Rafael, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in San Rafael, CA are:
What cities near San Rafael, CA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near San Rafael, CA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in San Rafael, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,316 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Librarian I - San Francisco Public Library (3630, TEX As-needed)

Librarian I - San Francisco Public Library (3630, TEX As-needed)

City and County of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


City And County Of San Francisco rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

166th of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Company Description

San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) is dedicated to free and equal access to information, knowledge, independent learning and the joys of reading for our diverse communities. The library system includes the architecturally significant Main Library in the city's Civic Center, 27 neighborhood branch libraries, two administrative buildings and four bookmobiles. With a collection of more than 3.7 million items, and circulation exceeding 11 million each year, SFPL serves more than 6 million visitors annually. The library system has extraordinary political and fiscal support that mandates an annual funding allocation from the city's property tax revenues, resulting in a budget of $171.2 million in FY 22. With a strong budget, SFPL has approximately 900 employees committed to outstanding public service.
In June 2018, the Library was named Library of the Year by Gale/Library Journal for its active promotion of San Francisco's values of inclusion, diversity, and equity and its ability to create programs and policies that support those democratic values. The library embraces its role as the most democratic of institutions, providing safe and welcoming facilities for all. Through a robust array of services and programs, the library places an emphasis on literacy and learning, digital inclusion, social justice, equity and healthy communities. To learn more about SFPL, please visit https://sfpl.org/.

Job Description

Temporary Exempt As-Needed: This position is excluded by the Charter from the competitive Civil Service examination process, is considered "at will" and shall serve at the discretion of the appointment officer.  This appointment is as-needed not to exceed six (6) months or 1040 hours.

The San Francisco Public Library is seeking applicants for our Temporary Exempt As-needed Librarian I applicant pool. This applicant pool will be aimed at interested Librarian I candidates who are available to provide as-needed Librarian services to a diverse community.

The essential functions of this job code include, but are not limited to: providing reference and reader's advisory service to patrons of all ages including children, teens, adults, and seniors; assisting library patrons in the use of library materials and technology; providing children's storytimes, teen and/or adult programming as needed, including computer, catalog, and database instruction; providing information; reccommending titles that can enhance the collection; responding to library patron needs; assisting users of all ages in accessing print and electronic resources; and performing other job related duties as assigned.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Assists patrons in locating and using library facilities and materials, in selecting materials, and in answering a wide variety of questions.
2. Reccommends library materials to be purchased, repaired, or discarded; may be responsible for the selection and maintenance of library materials of assigned sections(s) of the collection and suggests which materials shall be non-circulating materials.
3. Performs reference work; performs research; performs reader's advisory; prepares detailed bibliographies, book lists and other information; teaches patrons to access and use digital resources.
4. Plans and conducts programs and outreach for children, young adults, teens, and adults; meets with educators; visits and works with various community groups to promote the use of and interest in the Library.
5. Catalogs and classifies library materials; determines and assigns main entry, cross references and subject headings; adapts Library cataloging records for the Library and participates in determining cataloging policy.
6. Writes reports and correspondence; may supervise the maintenance and/or preparation of various files and records.
7. Plans or assists in planning and setting up displays and exhibits; assists in maintaining a pleasant and orderly atmosphere in the branch or unit of the Main Library.
8. May supervise subordinate staff.

Qualifications

These minimum qualifications establish the education, training, experience, special skills, and/or license(s) which are required for employment in the classification.  Please note, additional qualifications (i.e., special conditions) may apply to a particular position and will be stated on the exam/job announcement.

Education:

Possession of a masters of library and information science (MLS or MLIS) degree from a library school accredited by the American Library Association. (You must have attained your degree and completed your Master's program in order to be eligible for this recruitment)
Note: Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed to advance through all of the steps in the selection process.

Desirable Qualifications:
The stated desirable qualifications may be used to identify job finalists at the end of the selection process when candidates are referred for hiring.
A flexible schedule of availability including weekends and/or evenings.
Experience working with children, youth, and teens.
Excellent customer service skills.
Comfortability preparing and conducting a storytime or book talk.
Ability to travel to different Library locations within San Francisco.
Adaptable to change and willingness to assist all members of the San Francisco communities.

All work experience, education, training, and other information substantiating how you meet the minimum qualifications must be included on your application by the filing deadline. Information submitted after the filing deadline will not be considered in determining whether you meet the minimum qualifications.

Applications completed improperly may be cause for ineligibility and disqualification.

Verification of Experience and/or Education:
Applicants may be required to submit verification of qualifying education and experience at any point during the recruitment and selection process. If education verification is required, information on how to verify education requirements, including verifying foreign education credits or degree equivalency, can be found at https://sfdhr.org/how-verify-education-requirements.

Verification of qualifying experience, when requested, must be documented on the employer's business letterhead and must include the name of the applicant, job title(s), dates of employment, description of job duties performed, and signature of the employer or the employer's authorized representative. Experience claimed in self-employment will only be accepted if supported by documents verifying income, earnings, business license, and experience comparable to minimum qualifications above. Copies of income tax papers or other documents listing occupation and total earnings must be submitted. Employees of the City and County of San Francisco may submit performance evaluations showing duties performed to verify qualifying City experience. City employees will receive credit for the duties of the class to which appointed. Credit for experience obtained outside of the employee's class will be allowed only if recorded in accordance with the provisions of Civil Service Commission Rules. Verification may be waived if impossible to obtain. The applicant must submit a signed statement explaining why verification cannot be obtained. Waiver requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Failure to provide the required verification, or request for waiver when requested may result in rejection of the application.

Note: Falsifying one's education, training, or work experience or attempted deception on the application may result in disqualification for this and future job opportunities with the City and County of San Francisco.

Additional Information

Salary - $47.3750 per hour

Application Deadline: Continuous (this recruitment will be open on a continuous basis).

Please email Jamie Shih, at [email protected] should you have questions about the application process.

Selection Procedures:

Minimum Qualification Supplemental Questionnaire:

Candidates will be emailed a link to complete a Minimum Qualification Supplemental Questionnaire (MQSQ). This MQSQ is designed to obtain specific information regarding an applicant's experience in relation to the Minimum Qualifications for this position as required for the minimum qualifications review. Applicants must also complete the official application. It is essential that applicants provide complete information in identifying their education, experience, and training. The MQSQ will be used to evaluate if the applicant possesses the required minimum qualifications.
Applications will be screened for relevant and qualifying experience. Additional screening mechanisms may be implemented in order to determine candidate's qualifications. Only those applicants who most closely meet the needs of the department will be invited to participate in the selection process. Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement to an interview.

Hiring managers will conduct a brief interview session with selected applicants. Choosen applicants will then go through a pre-employment process before being onboarded as a TEX As-Needed Librarian I with the San Francisco Public Library.

Additional Information Regarding Employment with the City and County of San Francisco:

  • Information About The Hiring Process
  • Conviction History
  • Employee Benefits Overview  
  • Equal Employment Opportunity 
  • Disaster Service Worker
  • ADA Accommodation
  • Veterans Preference
  • Right to Work
  • Copies of Application Documents
  • Diversity Statement

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

The City and County of San Francisco encourages women, minorities and persons with disabilities to apply. Applicants will be considered regardless of their sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition (associated with cancer, a history of cancer, or genetic characteristics), HIV/AIDS status, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, military and veteran status, or other protected category under the law.


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