1

Library Assistant Jobs in Tipton, IA (NOW HIRING)

Collections Care Associate

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$17 - $23.50/hr

Maintain emergency response kits throughout all library locations. Assist as needed with book repair, mending, and other collection care duties. Update and maintain Environmental Health and Safety ...

Collections Care Associate

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$17 - $23.50/hr

Maintain emergency response kits throughout all library locations. • Assist as needed with book repair, mending, and other collection care duties. • Update and maintain Environmental Health and ...

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Perform library research on specified topics; prepare bibliographies and abstracts. * Procure ... Research Assistant * Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific * Schedule: Full-time * Work ...

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Position Summary The Research Assistant (RA) assists the Aldridge Lab with research projects meant ... Perform library research on specified topics; prepare bibliographies and abstracts. * Procure ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Library Assistant information

See Tipton, IA salary details

$7

$16

$24

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Tipton, IA is $16.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $18.65 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 cities near Tipton, IA are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Tipton, IA with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Tipton, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $34,286 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Clinical Education Librarian

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

464th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Iowa Libraries is seeking a collaborative and service-oriented Clinical Education Librarian at the Specialist Librarian classification (PLB2/4A) to join the Hardin Library for the Health Sciences. The librarian will serve as the primary liaison to the Carver College of Medicine (CCOM) Medical Doctorate (MD) and Physician Assistant (PA) education programs and reports to the CCOM Lead Clinical Education Librarian. The incumbent will also serve as liaison librarian to the residents, fellows, staff, and faculty of several CCOM departments.
Through embedded course instruction and consultations, the librarian will educate students on library resources, literature searching, evidence based clinical practice/critical appraisal of the medical literature, and research tools. The liaison supports Iowa's highly ranked PA education program, uniquely designed so that PA students attend classes with MD students during their first three semesters. This role supports the MD students in Iowa City and Des Moines through the preclinical, core clinical, & advanced clinical phases of medical school. The librarian will participate on education committees to connect library resources and skills to the curriculum. 
In these roles, the librarian will support the research, teaching, and learning needs of faculty and students across these disciplines and related programs. The incumbent will also participate in library-wide initiatives and programming that enhances the Libraries' role within the broader University community.
Key Areas of Responsibilities and Job Duties:

Instruction, Consultation, and Research Services
    Develop and conduct library education sessions customized for assigned liaison groups. 
    Provide evidence-based clinical practice instruction within the MD and PA education programs and other groups, including residency and fellowship programs.  
    In support of research and education, assist patrons with research skills, literature searching, and information management tools and maintain research guides for assigned programs and departments, enabling the discovery of library collections. 
    Provide systematic searching for evidence synthesis projects for or as a member of research teams. 
    Provide information and circulation services at the public service desk in-person and via telephone, email, and chat/instant messenger.

Leadership/Staff and Resource Management/Financial Responsibility
    Cultivate relationships with liaison areas to identify opportunities for library partnerships with education and research programs.
    Represent the UI Libraries and Hardin Library as a member of CCOM curriculum committees. 
    Assist in Libraries strategic planning at the unit or department level; collaborate to implement strategic vision and goals.

Continuous Learning & Skills Development
    Seek out new learning opportunities based on the needs and direction of the departments.
    Engage with the professional literature and attend events such as webinars, workshops, and conferences.
    Attend institutes or other specialized learning courses (e.g., Critical Appraisal Institute for Librarians) for skill development in teaching evidence based clinical practice. 
    Attend or complete specialized learning courses (e.g., MLA Systematic Review Services Specialization) for skill development in supporting evidence synthesis projects.

Professional Contributions 
    Stay informed about innovations, trends, and developments in health sciences librarianship through engagement with professional organizations.
    Acquire and maintain skills by participation in the profession through service, research, publishing, and/or teaching.
    Participate in and contribute to relevant library, health sciences, or university activities and committees.
 

Qualifications 
Required Education 
    ALA-accredited master's degree in library/information science. 

Required Qualifications 
    Two years professional experience working in academic libraries, health sciences libraries, or hospital libraries that primarily serve healthcare providers. 
    A strong interest in the field of health sciences librarianship demonstrated through professional experience, academic coursework, professional organization involvement, continuing education, or other experiences. 
    Ability to work independently and with others in a demanding and rapidly changing environment where flexibility, collaboration, consultation, and cooperation are essential.
    Demonstrated experience providing tailored instructional sessions to students, faculty, or staff that provide library resources, information literacy or evidence-based practice skills, or research concepts and skills.
    Demonstrated interest in professional development that will enhance the candidate's value to the Libraries, the University, and the profession.
    Ability to support a welcoming and respectful environment in a job-related experience, an academic setting, or the community.
    Excellent interpersonal skills and evidence of strong written and oral communication skills.

Desired Qualifications: 
    Demonstrated skill in using health sciences information resources (e.g., PubMed, CINAHL) and knowledge of emerging trends (e.g., artificial intelligence) in health sciences librarianship. 
    Experience in health sciences literature searching and/or providing searching and educational support for evidence synthesis projects (e.g., systematic reviews, scoping reviews) or a demonstrated interest in learning this methodology. 
    Training in or experience teaching evidence based clinical practice (e.g., critical appraisal of the biomedical literature) or a demonstrated interest in learning these skills. 
    Experience using research and learning tools, such as citation managers (e.g., EndNote), LibGuides, and course management software.
    Demonstrated understanding of the mission of a research university and the mission and functions of a large research library.


Application Details: 
Applications are only accepted through the Jobs@UIOWA website.
In order to be eligible for interview, applicants must upload the following and mark them as "relevant files" when you upload the documents:

1.    Cover letter that clearly addresses how you meet each of the required and any desired qualifications of this position. To ensure strongest consideration, applicants are encouraged to review all required qualifications and state directly how they meet each of them. 
2.    Current resume 
This job ad will be posted for a minimum of three weeks with a priority deadline of August 23, 2026, and may be removed from posting and filled any time after that date. Please contact andrea-rost@uiowa.edu if you have any questions about the position. 
The hiring salary range for this Specialist Librarian position is $55,000 - $74,000.
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. 
This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

This position is eligible for on-campus and/or hybrid remote work within Iowa, with the majority of work time being on campus, and will require a work arrangement form to be completed upon the start of your employment. Per policy, work arrangements will be reviewed annually, and must comply with the remote work program and related policies and employee travel policy when working at a remote location.

Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation.

Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.


What University Of Iowa employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom