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Library Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Library Department Job Type: On-Call Exemption Status: United States of America (Non-Exempt) Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified): July 26, 2026 The Opportunity: Did you know?

New

Veterinarian - Internist

Portland, OR · On-site

$217K - $233K/yr

... public library. We are also a few blocks from the MAX Light Rail System. * Portland Perks ... Our full-time associates are provided: * Benefits: 401(k) with employer match , Parental Leave ...

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Library Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$9

$21

$35

How much do library associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for library associate in Portland, OR is $21.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $25.48 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.

Can I work as a librarian without a degree?

Library Associate positions typically require a relevant degree, such as a bachelor's in library science or a related field, although some entry-level roles may accept relevant experience or certifications. Most librarian roles, especially those involving professional responsibilities, require a master's degree in library science or information studies. Certification or specialized training can also enhance job prospects but generally do not replace the need for formal education for librarian positions.

How much do library assistants make?

In North Carolina, library assistants typically earn an average hourly wage of around $10 to $14, depending on experience and location. Salaries can vary based on the library's size, budget, and whether the position is part-time or full-time, with some roles offering additional benefits or opportunities for advancement.

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.

What are Library Associates?

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.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian can be competitive, often requiring a master's degree in library science and relevant experience. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with library management systems, and certification can improve job prospects.

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 do you need to be a library associate?

To become a library associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong organizational and customer service skills, and familiarity with library systems and technology. Some positions may require previous experience in libraries or related environments. Certification is not usually mandatory but can be beneficial for advancement.
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Library jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Associate jobs in Portland, OR? For Library Associate jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Associate jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Library Associate jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Library Associate jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Library Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,249 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Library Shelvers

$16.80/hr

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Multnomah County rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 693 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Current employees: Please apply through the employee portal to be considered for this opportunity.

Pay Range:

$16.80 - $16.80 Hourly

Department:

Library Department

Job Type:

On-Call

Exemption Status:

United States of America (Non-Exempt)

Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):

July 26, 2026


The Opportunity:

Did you know?


Multnomah County Library patrons checked out or renewed over 18 million items last year. All that activity means we need to make sure our materials are available and on the shelves as quickly as possible.


Would you like to help?


Multnomah County Library is currently hiring temporary Library Shelvers to assist with materials processing at our new East County Library.


These are part time positions, working 12 to 15 hours per week, and are not benefit eligible.


As a Library Shelver, you will perform all materials movement tasks, completing them based on East County Library's priorities and workflow. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

  • Receiving, processing, condition weeding, and shelving materials, including packing out-going deliveries and unpacking incoming deliveries.
  • Using spine labels to shelve items in the correct sections in alphanumeric order. Shelf reading to ensure materials are in order.
  • Processing holds, including processing paging lists, routing outgoing holds, shelving incoming holds, locating and processing expired holds, and finding missing holds.
  • Processing branch returns using the Automated Materials Handling system and troubleshooting that system as needed.
  • Emptying and processing bookdrop utilizing appropriate systems. Safely fill book trucks based on location's standards.
  • Programming and erasing RFID transponders.
  • Keeping library public areas, including floors and tables, clean and orderly.
  • Providing basic directional help to patrons and referring more complex inquiries to the correct staff members.

This is a physically demanding position. You will be on your feet for extended periods of time and may need to bend or kneel in order to shelve materials. You will also regularly lift book crates weighing up to 30 pounds and pushing carts weighing 50 pounds or more.


The library is open and welcoming to all members of our community, including individuals who may be encountering hardships or challenges that affect their behavior and interactions. This position requires someone with the ability to work respectfully and capably with people from all backgrounds and age groups. You must demonstrate a positive attitude, excellent interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity and a sense of humor while working with customers, co-workers and community. You may encounter situations that require assistance from a supervisor or person-in-charge. Your ability to exercise quick and mature judgement in these instances is crucial.

Multnomah County Library is committed to supporting our communities of color and other communities subjected to marginalization by leading inclusively with race and intersectionality in the services we provide. As a member of our team, all staff are expected to act as allies to Library staff and patrons from communities of color and other groups subjected to marginalization by:

  • Speaking up to support staff and patrons subjected to marginalization
  • Speaking out against racism and oppression
  • Demonstrating behavior that is culturally aware and sensitive

Learn more about the library's services on our website.

To Qualify
We will consider any combination of relevant work experience, volunteering, education, and transferable skills as qualifying unless an item or section is labeled required. Please be clear and specific about how your background is relevant.

Minimum Qualifications/Transferable Skills:

  • Completion of/current enrollment in high school or the equivalent.
  • One year of experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties listed above.
  • Ability to pass a criminal records check, should a job offer be extended. Results of the records check will be reviewed on an individualized basis. A conviction is not an automatic bar to employment.

Preferred Qualifications/Transferable Skills: You do not need to have the following preferred qualifications/transferable skills to qualify. However, keep in mind we may consider some or all of the following when identifying the most qualified candidates. Please clearly explain on your application how you meet any of the following preferred qualifications/transferable skills.

  • Ability to perform repetitive tasks.
  • Ability to maintain attention to detail in a distraction filled environment.
  • Previous experience lifting up to 30 pounds regularly.


Screening and Evaluation

The Application Packet

  • A completed online application


The Selection Process: For details about how we typically screen applications, review our overview of the selection process page. We expect to evaluate candidates for this recruitment as follows:

  • Initial review of minimum qualifications
  • An evaluation of application materials to identify the most qualified candidates
  • Consideration of top candidates/interviews
  • Reference and criminal records checks

Additional Details
Work Location: This position works onsite at East County Library located at 475 NW Division St, Gresham, OR 97030

Serving the Public, Even During Disasters: Everyday, Multnomah County staff work together to serve as a safety net for our communities. During a disaster, this safety net becomes even more critical. All County employees have a role in serving the public during inclement weather, natural disaster, or other types of community emergency response. During these emergency responses, while typically there begins with a call for volunteers, county employees may ultimately be reassigned from their current position to a role in the emergency response in order to support the critical needs presented by our communities. For more information, please visit the Disaster Service Worker Information page.


In accordance with Oregon Law, Multnomah County is not collecting school attendance dates in the initial application process; please do not include these dates in your resume, cover letter and other application materials.

Diversity and Inclusion: At Multnomah County, we don't just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for our employees.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran or protected veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected characteristics. The EEO Know Your Rights poster is available for your reference. Multnomah County is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We request priority protected veteran referrals.

Veterans' Preference: Under Oregon Law, qualifying veterans may apply for veterans' preference. Review our veterans' preference page for details about eligibility and how to apply.

Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact the recruiter below in advance to request assistance. Individuals with hearing or speech impairments may contact the recruiter through the Telecommunications Relay Service by dialing 711.

Questions?

Recruiter:

Anthony Cesario

Email:

anthonyc@multco.us

Phone:

+1 (971) 4166884

Application information may be used throughout the entire selection process. This process is subject to change without notice.

Disclaimer: This announcement is intended as a general descriptive recruitment guide and is subject to change. It does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

Job Profile:

8005 - Library Shelver (On Call)

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