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Library Associate Jobs in Rapid City, SD (NOW HIRING)

Library Associate information

See Rapid City, SD salary details

$9

$20

$33

How much do library associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for library associate in Rapid City, SD is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $23.75 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 Rapid City, SD?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Rapid City, SD are:

What job categories do people searching Library Associate jobs in Rapid City, SD look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Associate jobs in Rapid City, SD are:

What cities near Rapid City, SD are hiring for Library Associate jobs?

Cities near Rapid City, SD with the most Library Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Associate job openings in Rapid City, SD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,121 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Enrollment & Retention Specialist

Great Plains Tribal Leaders' Health Board

Rapid City, SD • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Enrollment & Retention Specialist

Enrollment & Retention Specialists provide a high level of support, coordination and implementation of program deliverables. The incumbent is responsible for a variety of tasks including, but not limited to, assisting with report writing, coordinating and conducting project activities and fostering relationships with program stakeholders. The incumbent develops curricula, educational materials and community outreach methodology and establishes relationships with community partners. This position involves a thorough understanding of project management in a public health setting, working with diverse tribal communities, and the ability to achieve positive outcomes between multiple external stakeholders.

Essential Functions:

• Prepare and write a wide range of reports, including but not limited to, progress reports, annual reports and internal reports.

• Identify funding opportunities and grant writing for the continuation of existing projects as well as new projects.

• Report to the Director and Program Manager on a regular basis regarding overall program performance and progress.

• Conduct literature review and interpret basic health data.

• Design and conduct evaluations and diagnostic studies to assess the quality and performance of health education programs.

• Conduct research into existing and new data sources.

• Review state and national surveillance systems used in health monitoring and in accessing reliable data sources.

• Develop, conduct, and/or coordinate health needs assessments and other public health surveys.

• Develop and maintain health education libraries to provide resources for staff and community agencies.

• Participate in Human Subjects Research (HSR) CITI program training within 60 days upon hire date.

• Participate in the assessment of health education needs and in the development and delivery of health education programs.

• Collaborate with health specialists and tribal communities to determine community health needs and the availability of services.

• Integrate a cultural-based approach into evidence-base practices and best practice models.

• Effectively plan, organize workload and schedule time to meet the demands of the position.

• Foster relationships with state and local partners to strengthen program collaborations and partnerships.

• Additional duties as assigned by the Director and Program Manager.

Requirements:

• Participates in Core Connections training and applies GPTLHB Core Connections concepts and practices in their work.

• Familiarity and/or experience working with American Indian populations and respect for and knowledge of traditional, cultural, and spiritual practices of diverse American Indian communities, as well as an ability to work with other culturally and ethnically diverse populations.

• Proficiency with computer programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other Internet technologies.

• Valid driver's license must be kept current, and certificates, credentials or licenses must be kept current and consistent with regulations required by applicable federal, state and/or grant regulations as applies to position.

• Work in a cooperative and professional manner with OHC and GPTLHB staff.

• Treat Great Plains tribes and collaborators with dignity and respect.

• Utilize effective verbal and written communication skills.

• Advance personal educational development by attending training sessions and seminars as appropriate.

• Exemplify excellent customer service with tribal stakeholders, health board colleagues, program partners, service recipients, visitors and guests.

• Foster a work environment of wellness, courtesy, friendliness, helpfulness and respect.

• Consistently demonstrate respect for and acceptance of differing capabilities, cultures, gender, age, sexual orientation and/or personalities.

• Maintain and ensure organizational privacy and confidentiality.

• Promote an alcohol, tobacco and drug-free lifestyle.

Qualifications:

Completion of a formal training program or an associate's degree and one (1) year of relevant experience; or a high school diploma or GED and three (3) years of relevant experience.

Individuals must have applicable education or experience applying a body of standardized rules, procedures, or operations to perform the full range of standard clerical assignments and resolve recurring problems or to operate and adjust varied equipment for purposes such as performing numerous standardized tests or operations.

The GPTLHB is a tribal organization that follows tribal preference laws. Our policy is to give preference to qualified Indian/Tribal candidates over qualified non-native candidates in hiring decisions if all other qualifications are equal.

Employment is contingent upon the outcome of all required criminal background checks.

Employee Health Requirements:

Compliance with our Employee Health Procedure is a condition of employment. You are required to agree that you will comply with all job-related employee health screening and immunizations prior to your first day of employment. Jobs require that you have documentation that you have completed the following immunizations prior to your first day of employment: MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella, Varicella (Chicken Pox), Hepatitis B, Influenza, T-dap (Tetanus - Diphtheria - Pertussis), and COVID-19 vaccination is required.

This position is funded by grants and is contingent upon the availability of grant funding.