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Library Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Associate Librarian

CA ยท On-site

$80 - $95/hr

Library Division: Instruction Opening Date: 05/17/2017 Closing Date: Continuous Salary Level: 1 ... No JOB SUMMARY ABOUT ASSOCIATE LIBRARIANS Mt. San Jacinto Community College District welcomes ...

Showing results 21-40

Library Associate information

See California salary details

$9

$20

$33

How much do library associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for library associate in California is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library associate?

Library Associates are staff members who assist with the daily operations of a library. They help patrons locate materials, check out and return books, organize resources, and may assist with library programs or events. Library Associates often provide customer service, answer basic reference questions, and support librarians in maintaining an organized and welcoming environment. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the size and type of library, but they play a vital role in ensuring smooth library operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Associate, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring library science coursework. Familiarity with library management systems, cataloging software, and basic computer applications is usually required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively assist patrons and support library operations. These abilities are vital for maintaining an organized, accessible library environment and ensuring a positive user experience.

What are some common challenges library associates face when assisting patrons, and how can they effectively address them?

Library Associates frequently encounter challenges such as helping patrons locate specific materials, assisting with technology (like printers or public computers), and managing multiple requests during busy periods. To address these challenges effectively, it's important to develop strong communication and problem-solving skills, stay up-to-date with library catalog systems, and remain patient and resourceful when guiding patrons. Collaborating closely with librarians and other staff members also ensures that patrons receive comprehensive support and that workloads are balanced during peak times.

What is the difference between Library Associate vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary AssociateLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer post-secondary educationAssociate degree in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries; customer service focusSimilar environments with more technical and cataloging responsibilities
Employer UsageCommonly employed in public and academic libraries for assisting patronsOften involved in cataloging, shelving, and technical support tasks
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between a Library Associate and a Library Technician lies in their educational requirements and technical responsibilities. Library Associates typically have a high school diploma and focus on customer service and daily library operations. In contrast, Library Technicians usually hold an associate degree and handle more technical tasks like cataloging and collection management. Both roles are vital in library settings, but Library Technicians often require more specialized training and perform more technical duties.

Can you get a job at a library with no experience?

Library associate positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. Employers may look for strong customer service skills, organizational abilities, and a willingness to learn, making it possible for entry-level candidates to qualify. Some libraries may prefer or require a high school diploma or equivalent, but specific experience is usually not mandatory for starting roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in California?

The most popular types of Library jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Associate jobs in California?

For Library Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Associate jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Associate jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Library Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Library Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,108 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Library/Media Specialist

Santa Paula Unified School District

Santa Paula, CA โ€ข On-site

$24.16 - $29.37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Salary: $24.16 - $29.37 Hourly
Location : Santa Paula, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2627-11
Department: District Office
Opening Date: 08/06/2026
Closing Date: 8/26/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
About the Recruitment
THIS RECRUITMENT IS OPEN AND PROMOTIONAL
The Santa Paula Unified School District is excited to announce an Open and Promotional
opportunity for the position of:
LIBRARY/MEDIA SPECIALIST
Full-time, school year
The purpose of this examination is to establish an eligibility list for one full-time vacancies and any vacancies occurring during the next 12 months. All applications must be submitted online and received by the final filing date posted on this recruitment. The Classified HR Department is located in the back portables at the District Office - 201 S. Steckel Drive - Santa Paula, CA 93060.
Note: The District has the right to limit the number of eligibles which can be reasonably used during the existence of the eligibility list. The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
Employees may be eligible for an annual degree stipend (prorated) and paid tenthly (whichever is greater):
$250/Associate degrees, $500/Bachelor degrees; $750/Master degrees
Additionally, employees may participate in the Professional Growth Program, allowing them up to 5% of their base salary.
FOR A COMPLETE JOB DESCRIPTION, PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: www.santapaulausd.org
Non Discrimination Statement
The Santa Paula Unified School District (SPUSD) prohibits discrimination, intimidation, harassment (including sexual harassment) or bullying based on a person's actual or perceived ancestry, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, immigration status, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or association with a person or a group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics in its program or activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following employees have been designated Equity Compliant Officers to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination:
Dr. Andres P. Santamaria, Title IX Coordinator/504 Coordinator (805) 933-8843, titleIX@santapaulausd.org;
Doug Henning, Facilities and Construction Manager, Title Il Coordinator (Facilities) 805-933-8901, The address for all Compliant Officers is 201 S. Steckel Drive, Santa Paula, CA 93060
Basic Function and Essential Duties
Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, plan, coordinate and provide library media services in a media center style library; perform a variety of library support duties in the circulation, cataloging, maintenance and distribution of books, audio-visual and other instructional and/or media materials at an assigned school site; perform related computer operations; assist students and teachers in the selection, location and use of library materials and equipment; provide materials to assist with curriculum, State standards and other programs.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
The Library/Textbook Technician classification performs activities requiring broader knowledge of library activities and operations including the cataloging and processing of new materials. Incumbents are assigned to a secondary school library. Library/Media Specialist incumbents are assigned to an elementary school site and support a media center style library, perform a variety of library duties involved in the acquisition, circulation, maintenance, processing and distribution of books and/or media or instructional materials.
REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES:
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Following established guidelines and procedures, perform a variety of library support duties in the circulation, cataloging, maintenance and distribution of books, audio-visual, and other instructional and/or media materials; assist with maintaining designated library material collections in a neat and orderly condition.
Circulate library materials; check library materials in and out using an assigned computerized system; shelve books and other library materials; repair damaged books as needed; collect and shelve unattended library materials; weed old, outdated or severely damaged books.
Support the use of instructional technology to engage students and to improve learning.
Assist students and teachers in the selection, location and use of library materials and equipment; respond to inquiries and provide information; provide materials to assist with core curriculum, State standards and other academic programs; receive and fulfill book requests from students and teachers.
Maintain current knowledge of library/literacy center resources and applicable digital technologies.
Receive and process new and donated library materials; prepare materials for introduction into the library collection; stamp books and prepare labels; affix identification, security devices, book jackets and bar-code labels to materials; locate and if necessary, create MARC records for new titles; input related information into assigned computer system; utilize classifying and cataloging techniques and knowledge of MARC system.
Assist with the opening and closing of the library as directed; lock and unlock doors as directed; turn on and off lights, computers, copiers and other machinery; announce closing times; escort students out as needed; prepare and decorate the library and bulletin boards.
Input, update and modify a variety of data related to books and instructional materials into an assigned computer system; establish and maintain automated records and files; verify accuracy and completeness of input and output data.
Generate and distribute overdue lists; generate bill notices and mail as appropriate; prepare, issue and process fine slips; prepare related correspondence; receive payments, prepare receipts and deposits; respond to inquiries and provide information concerning fines and related holds and issues.
Read age-appropriate stories to students as assigned.
Operate a variety of office and library equipment including computers and all applicable hardware and assigned software.
Provide input on new acquisitions of digital and print library materials and equipment.
Maintain various logs, records and lists related to book requests, shelf lists, lost books, library statistics/circulation, and other assigned activities.
Conduct library orientations; enforce library rules and policies related to student behavior.
OTHER DUTIES:
Perform related duties as assigned.
Provide work direction to students, assistants and volunteers as assigned.
Education and Experience
Any combination equivalent to: sufficient experience, training and/or education to demonstrate the knowledge and abilities listed above. Typically, this would be gained through graduation from high school or its equivalent with two years increasingly library/clerical experience.
Knowledge and Abilities
Library cataloging and classification techniques.
General functions, operations and maintenance of school libraries.
Library practices, procedures, reference materials, resources and terminology.
Operation of a computer and all other applicable software systems.
Record-keeping techniques.
Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary.
Oral and written communication skills.
Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy. Modern office practices, procedures and equipment.
Basic mathematics.
Retrieval of MARC records.
We offer a complete benefits package to classified employees who work six (6.0) hours or more per day. Benefits include health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page:
01
I understand that the Santa Paula Unified School District Classified HR Office will communicate with me via email and that it is my responsibility to check my email.
  • Yes
  • No

02
The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal.
  • Yes, I understand and agree
  • No, I do not agree

03
Are you a current regular classified employee with Santa Paula Unified School District (substitute employment not included)?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Library/Media Specialist: Do you have at least two years of increasingly responsible library / clerical experience?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Please describe your experience working in a library, school office, or other clerical or administrative setting. Include any responsibilities related to organizing materials or records, processing or tracking items, maintaining files or databases, or providing customer service. Be sure to indicate where and when you gained this experience. If you do not have this type of experience, please type "N/A".
07
Please describe your experience assisting students, staff, customers, or members of the public by answering questions, locating information or materials, providing support, or resolving routine issues. Include where and when you gained this experience and how you ensured positive customer service. If you do not have this type of experience, please type "N/A".
08
Please describe your experience using computers and software applications to maintain records, enter or update data, generate reports, or manage information. Include any experience using library management systems, student information systems, databases, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, or other applicable software. Be sure to indicate where and when you gained this experience. If you do not have this type of experience, please type "N/A".
09
Please describe a time when you were responsible for managing multiple tasks, maintaining accurate records, organizing materials, or meeting competing deadlines in a library, office, school, or other work environment. Include where and when you gained this experience and how you prioritized your workload. If you do not have this type of experience, please type "N/A".
10
Please describe your experience working with children or supporting educational, literacy, recreational, or customer service programs. Include any experience encouraging reading, assisting with technology, leading activities, or creating a welcoming environment. Be sure to indicate where and when you gained this experience. If you do not have this type of experience, please type "N/A".
Required Question