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Library Assistant Jobs in Severn, MD (NOW HIRING)

As the JLB is a dual-language library with materials in both English and Hebrew, applicants should possess sufficient familiarity with the Hebrew language to assist patrons in locating and using ...

As the JLB is a dual-language library with materials in both English and Hebrew, applicants should possess sufficient familiarity with the Hebrew language to assist patrons in locating and using ...

As the JLB is a dual-language library with materials in both English and Hebrew, applicants should possess sufficient familiarity with the Hebrew language to assist patrons in locating and using ...

Archivist

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Enter and update records in archival management systems and digital repositories used by the National Agricultural Library. * Assist with quality control and metadata normalization to improve ...

Librarian (Business)

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

Summary The Library of Congress shares its vast collections of books, manuscripts, photographs ... requests. * Assist with reviewing a wide variety of brochures, catalogs, journals, and other ...

Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

Summary The Library of Congress shares its vast collections of books, manuscripts, photographs ... officers. Assist in examination of incoming shipments to select items appropriate for the ...

Supervisory Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$143K - $187K/yr

Assess the availability of financial and human resources, independently plan, schedule, coordinate and carry out activities related to the library acquisitions program. Assist in preparing and ...

Librarian (Reference)

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

Summary The Library of Congress shares its vast collections of books, manuscripts, photographs ... Develop knowledge of collections for use in performing research tasks. Assist in preparing research ...

Showing results 21-40

Library Assistant information

See Severn, MD salary details

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How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Severn, MD is $20.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $23.51 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Severn, MD?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Severn, MD are:

What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Severn, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Severn, MD are:

What cities near Severn, MD are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Severn, MD with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Severn, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,198 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Assistant Library Manager

Essex, MD • On-site

Baltimore County Public Library
Libraries and Archives • 501 - 1,000 employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Baltimore County Public Library rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At BCPL, staff members have the opportunity to enrich individual lives and build strong communities by delivering exceptional customer experiences, establishing meaningful partnerships, and creating innovative learning spaces. We seek enthusiastic, open-minded, self-motivated individuals who can work well independently and with others. BCPL circulates over 10 million items and provides library services through its 19 branches, 4 mobile library vehicles, and an extensive outreach network. If you are forward thinking and passionate about public service, consider joining BCPL in this position.

Schedule:

This is a full time position working 40 hours a week. All library branch staff will be required to work evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays throughout the year as part of the normal work schedule. Sundays run from Labor Day through Memorial Day.

Job Summary:

Under the general direction of the Library Manager, manages and coordinates the maintenance of the library collection and the provision of information, programming and outreach services. Proactively develops, supervises, and evaluates the performance of librarian staff. Collaborates with other management team members to develop and implement a customer service model aligned with community needs and system level priorities. Handles customer, staff and building issues. Participates in Assistant Library Manager management group and other system-wide committees.

  • Hires, trains, develops, coaches, supervises and evaluates librarian staff
  • Collaborates with the Branch Manager to set performance expectations and customer service goals for librarian staff
  • Collaborates with the management team and community organizations to ensure that high quality library services and resources are delivered to customers and meet community needs
  • Oversees the maintenance of the library collection and the provision of information, materials advisory and programming/outreach services to diverse users
  • In the absence of the Branch Manager, assumes manager duties
  • Leads and/or actively participates in branch and system-wide teams, committees and work groups
  • Models continuous learning through seminars, workshops, professional affiliations and other means to keep abreast of current and emerging trends. Encourages and supports continuous staff development
  • Performs all essential librarian functions as determined by branch and system needs and engages in direct customer service
  • Develops and maintains a thorough understanding of BCPL rules and policies and serves as a resource for other staff
  • Performs duties related to location specific, specialized services and/or Centers of Excellence
  • Must be able to meet scheduling requirements by arriving to work on time and staying until the end of one's shift
  • Must be able to work evenings and weekends and be flexible with one's work schedule to meet daily operational requirements
  • Must have access to transportation, as needed, to fulfill the responsibilities of the position (including meetings, events and activities at other branch locations or offsite)
  • Other duties as assigned

Bargaining Unit Status: Ineligible

Job Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college
  • Comprehensive knowledge of library operations acquired through four (4) years of progressively responsible work in a public library setting
  • For non-MLS/MLIS candidates: Successful completion of the Library Associates Training Institute (LATI) within two (2) years of date of hire, or 90 hours toward MLS from an ALA accredited college within two (2) years of date of hire with completion of MLS within 3 years of date of hire
  • MLS, MLIS or similar degree from an ALA accredited college will be accepted in lieu of two (2) years of experience and must have or be able to secure Maryland State Department of Education Professional Librarian Certification
  • Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. and push/pull a wheeled cart weighing up to 100 lbs.
  • Ability bend, kneel, crouch and stretch for extended periods of time
  • Ability to stand and/or walk for up to two (2) hours at a time
  • Must be able to read small print
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college
  • Comprehensive knowledge of library operations acquired through four (4) years of progressively responsible work in a public library setting
  • For non-MLS/MLIS candidates: Successful completion of the Library Associates Training Institute (LATI) within two (2) years of date of hire, or 90 hours toward MLS from an ALA accredited college within two (2) years of date of hire with completion of MLS within 3 years of date of hire
  • MLS, MLIS or similar degree from an ALA accredited college will be accepted in lieu of two (2) years of experience and must have or be able to secure Maryland State Department of Education Professional Librarian Certification
  • Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. and push/pull a wheeled cart weighing up to 100 lbs.
  • Ability bend, kneel, crouch and stretch for extended periods of time
  • Ability to stand and/or walk for up to two (2) hours at a time
  • Must be able to read small print

*Applicants for this position will remain in consideration for any Assistant Library Manager position openings at this location within the next six months and do not need to reapply.*

This position closes on September 11, 2026.

We have a 14 step pay scale. Internal applicants starting pay varies based on their current step on the salary scale. We also offer, as appropriate, overtime pay, comp. time, and differential pay.

The Library offers an excellent benefits package that includes pay holidays, 20 vacation days, 15 sick days, and seven personal days per year.

  • health, dental, vision, life, voluntary long-term disability, pension, deferred compensation, an employee assistance program, flex spending, and Commuter Choice parking and transit accounts.
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