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Library Assistant Jobs in Somerville, MA (NOW HIRING)

Marblehead

Children's Librarian

Marblehead, MA · On-site

Assigns daily duties, coordinates schedules in collaboration with the Assistant Director, and supervises the work of library personnel and volunteers assigned to the department. * Initiates and ...

City of Boston

Branch Librarian I

Dorchester, MA · On-site

$75K - $98K/yr

The staff of a branch library. Responsibilities: * Executes the policies and practices of the Library as they pertain to the Branch Library. * Assumes primary responsibility in one service area or ...

Wellesley College

Science Librarian

Wellesley, MA

Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences or equivalent. * Academic background in a science field taught at the College such as physics, biology, chemistry, psychology, computer science, and ...

Wellesley College

Science Librarian

Wellesley, MA · On-site

Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences or equivalent. * Academic background in a science field taught at the College such as physics, biology, chemistry, psychology, computer science, and ...

City of Boston

Childrens Librarian II

Boston, MA

Under supervision and within the framework of the Library's policies and practices, to assume responsibility for the effective execution of the Library's programs of service to a diverse population ...

City of Boston

Childrens Librarian II

Boston, MA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Under supervision and within the framework of the Library's policies and practices, to assume responsibility for the effective execution of the Library's programs of service to a diverse population ...

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Library Assistant information

See Somerville, MA salary details

$9

$20

$29

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Somerville, MA is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $23.08 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 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 would a library assistant do?

A library assistant helps with tasks such as checking books in and out, shelving and organizing library materials, assisting patrons in locating resources, and maintaining the cleanliness and order of the library. They often use library management software and may need good customer service skills and attention to detail.

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 require basic computer skills and familiarity with library management software; additional certifications are not usually required but can be beneficial.

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 be a library assistant with no experience?

Library assistants typically do not need prior experience, as many employers provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as organization, communication, and familiarity with library systems or technology can be helpful, but entry-level positions often accept applicants without previous experience.

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.

Is it hard to be a library assistant?

Being a library assistant generally involves tasks such as organizing materials, helping patrons, and using library management software. The job requires good organizational skills, attention to detail, and customer service abilities, but it is not typically considered physically or mentally demanding. Training is often provided, and the work environment is usually quiet and structured.
More about Library Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Somerville, MA? The most popular types of Library jobs in Somerville, MA are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Somerville, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Somerville, MA are:
What cities near Somerville, MA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Somerville, MA with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Somerville, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,406 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Student Assistant for The Library's Reference and Instruction Team

Berklee

Boston, MA

$16.97/hr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

In order to participate in Berklee Student Employment, a student must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Current student at Berklee College of Music or Boston Conservatory at Berklee.

  • Enrolled at least half-time in a degree, diploma, or certificate-seeking undergraduate or graduate program. Summer is the only semester in which a student can maintain employment without being enrolled. In this case, the student must be pre-registered for the upcoming fall semester. This exception does not apply to fall or spring semesters.

  • Have a valid United States Social Security Number (SSN).

  • Remain in "valid" Visa status as applicable.

  • A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA. Students in their first semester can work, even though they do not have an official GPA until the completion of their first semester.

  • Federal Work Study student may apply.

  • In good disciplinary standing.

  • Must be located in the U.S.

For complete program details, please go to our website:www.berklee.edu/se.The Library's Reference, Instruction, and Engagement Team is seeking a friendly, self-motivated, and creative student worker to help support the Berklee community. This position includes answering patron questions via chat on the Library's website and creating educational content promoting library resources. Graduate students and undergraduates in their fourth semester or beyond are encouraged to apply.
This position starts at the beginning of September 2026.Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Chat live with the Berklee community on The Library's website answering their questions and recognizing when to refer to staff members

  • Attend monthly team meetings

  • Effectively navigate The Library's online resources

  • Support the team's instructional efforts, including creating content (e.g. displays, social media content, and instructional guides/videos), or similar activities

  • Assist library staff with conceptualizing and executing projects to promote our resources

Required Skills and Knowledge

  • Friendly, considerate, and public-service oriented

  • Comfortable interacting with Berklee students, staff, faculty, alumni, and outside researchers

  • Punctuality, dependability, and regular communication with supervisor and coworkers

  • Effective oral and written communication in English

  • Able to work independently under guidelines, and to refer problems when appropriate

  • Willingness to engage in a collaborative process to create unique learning experiences for the Berklee community

Preferred Skills and Knowledge

  • Previous library or customer service experience

  • Teaching or training experience

  • Video editing, animation, graphic design, or other content creation experience

  • Familiarity with library resources, catalogs, or database searching

  • Awareness of current events and topics that impact libraries and the "information ecosystem" for academics, students, and artists (ex. media literacy, fact-checking, machine learning tools, etc.)

Required application materials:

1. Resume or summary of your work experience

2. One paragraph communicating why you are interested in the position and how you'd be a good fit


Hours/week: 10-20 hours per week

Hourly Rate: $16.97

Hiring Manager: Erin Finn

Apply