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Library Associate Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

EWI

Research Library Assistant

Columbus, OH · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Research Library Assistant Columbus Office - Columbus, OH 43221 Overview Salary Range $20.00 - $23 ... EWI Associates are passionate about identifying out-of-the-box options that provide a long-term ...

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Library Associate information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$9

$19

$32

How much do library associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for library associate in Columbus, OH is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $23.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 many employers provide on-the-job training. Having good organizational skills, customer service abilities, and familiarity with library systems or technology can improve your chances of being hired without experience.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Columbus, OH?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Columbus, OH are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Associate jobs in Columbus, OH?

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

What job categories do people searching Library Associate jobs in Columbus, OH look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Associate jobs in Columbus, OH are:

What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Library Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Library Associate job openings:

Library Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Associate job openings in Columbus, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,212 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Library Associate

Grandview Heights Public Library

Columbus, OH • On-site

$15.61/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Library Associate

Classification: Support Staff III

Department: Patron Services (Adult & Youth)

Hours: 20 hours (includes daytime, some evening and weekend hours; including every third weekend)

Pay: $15.61

Benefits: Paid vacation days, paid sick, 12 paid holidays, bereavement, and parental leave; OPERS retirement (library pays 14% and employee pays 10%), Deferred Compensation enrollment optional.

Reporting Relationship: Patron Services Manager

Purpose: Provides excellent customer service to patrons of all ages including circulation services, reader's advisory, research, and technology assistance.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Patron Account Assistance

  • Circulation duties – charges and discharges materials, renews items, places reserves, handles patron financial transactions, processes new patron registrations
  • Answers questions regarding patron accounts in person, by telephone and email
  • Locates library materials to fill patron requests.

Basic Reference Assistance

  • Provides basic reference service in person, by telephone, and via email
  • Provides assistance and makes library material recommendations in person and over the phone
  • Helps patrons utilize other library services (meeting room reservations, voter registration, etc.)
  • Provides assistance with the library's digital resources

Technology Assistance

  • Provides assistance with technology including, but not limited to computers, Microsoft Office applications, eReaders, tablets, smartphones, copiers, microfilm, scanners, and gaming systems
  • Provides assistance with library's online catalog (including mobile catalog)
  • Remains proficient with all library-related technology changes

Other Duties

  • Participates in training opportunities
  • Follows library policies and procedures
  • Reports maintenance and safety issues to supervisor, Maintenance Technician, or Administration
  • Runs reports and notices in the library's automation system
  • May be asked to assist with one or more of the following:
    • Preparing bibliographies, suggested book lists, and pathfinders
    • Library programming or presentations
    • Staff training
    • Opening and closing the library
    • Marketing materials through displays, bulletin boards, and booklists
    • Other projects as assigned
    • Collection development (selection, inventory, weeding, copy cataloging, etc.)
    • Patron outreach
    • Shelve materials and empty the book drop

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment
  • Outstanding customer service skills
  • Effective interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate clearly in verbal and written English
  • Proficient in the use of Windows-based computer programs; word processing, spreadsheet, and electronic database programs
  • Strong keyboarding skills
  • Comfortable with a variety of technology, such as smart phones, tablets, eReaders
  • Ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment

Education and Experience: Required

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Occasional travel, valid Ohio driver's license, and proof of insurance required
  • Customer service experience

Preferred

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Experience working with a variety of ages
  • Public library customer service experience

Physical Requirements:

  • Considerable mobility including, but not limited to, extensive periods of standing, walking, bending, sitting, lifting weights of up to 50 pounds, and pushing full book carts or containers
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to perform general typing and computer skills
  • Calm and focused handling of interruptions and distractions
  • Periodic intense concentration and sustained viewing of a computer monitor

This position description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with this position and is subject to review and change at any time in accordance with the needs of Grandview Heights Public Library.

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