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Library Associate Jobs in Wilmington, NC (NOW HIRING)

Library Associate information

See Wilmington, NC salary details

$7

$17

$28

How much do library associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for library associate in Wilmington, NC is $17.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $20.38 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 Wilmington, NC?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Wilmington, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Associate jobs in Wilmington, NC?

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

What job categories do people searching Library Associate jobs in Wilmington, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Associate jobs in Wilmington, NC are:

What cities near Wilmington, NC are hiring for Library Associate jobs?

Cities near Wilmington, NC with the most Library Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Associate job openings in Wilmington, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,621 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Part-time Library Assistant (Northeast Military Cutoff location)

New Hanover County

Wilmington, NC โ€ข On-site

$17.46/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Information New Hanover County Public Library is seeking a customer-focused, team-oriented Library Assistant for our Northeast location (Military Cutoff). As the primary point of contact, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact each day by welcoming patrons, providing helpful service, and creating an excellent library experience for the community. The vision and commitment of the New Hanover County Public Library is to support a diverse workforce to provide an exciting destination where people gather, ideas flourish, and the information and technology resources needed for a community to prosper are made freely available.

We are passionate about creating a caring, inviting and welcoming place; developing the technology and information resources needed for people of all ages to Learn, Grow and Prosper; and preserving and making accessible our rich history and diverse cultural heritage. If this sounds like you, then come and be a part of the exciting and progressive team at New Hanover County. Essential duties include, but are not limited to: Providing assistance to children, teens, adults and seniors with use of library collections, services, facilities, and essential technological devices.

Helping customers navigate library policies and procedures. Guiding customers through registration, checkout, and e-content downloads, using the integrated library system (TLC). Responding to readers' advisory and general reference questions by accessing various print and non-print resources.

Operating and troubleshooting library equipment, including self-check machines, printers, computers, and other technologies. Creating attractive and timely displays featuring library resources. Accurately shelving library materials.

Assisting with Library opening and closing procedures. Protecting each customer's right to privacy and access, adhering to the American Library Association Bill of Rights and Code of Ethics Performs work with regular and predictable attendance consistently meeting the scheduling needs as required by the county. Performs work during emergency/disaster situations.

Performs other duties of a similar nature or level. New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, innovation, equity, integrity, stewardship and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers.

New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees' backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, while supporting growth opportunities for all. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change on the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve.

If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County. * * * Work Hours: This position will work a minimum of 8 hours with potential for up to 15 hours per week. Work schedule will be Monday - Friday with varying morning, afternoon, and evening shifts depending on the needs of branch.

One weekend rotation every 4 weeks. Weekend shifts are 10:00-5:00 on Saturday and 12:45-5:00 on Sunday. Work schedule is subject to change based on departmental needs.

Must be available to work during emergency situations. Employment Type: Part time, non-exempt Salary Information: The hiring salary for this position is $17.4639 hour. Salary will be determined based on qualifications, internal equity, budget, and market considerations

New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, innovation, equity, integrity, stewardship and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers. New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees' backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, while supporting growth opportunities for all.

Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change on the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve. If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.

Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent, and at least one year of experience in a library, bookstore or other frontline customer service role (e.g. retail, food service, or hospitality). Knowledge, skills, education, training, and experience sufficient to thoroughly understand the functions of the role and successfully perform the essential duties Associates degree preferred

Required Skills and Knowledge Intermediate to advanced experience using personal computers, learning and utilizing software applications and operating peripheral equipment (printers, scanners, etc.) Strong oral and written communication skills Ability to interact courteously and professionally with the public, coworkers and others in a fast-paced work environment. Ability to respond appropriately to information-seeking behaviors and diverse learning styles. Ability to maintain confidentiality, work independently, and exercise judgment in resolving customer issues

Flexibility and willingness to adjust to a constantly changing work environment. Physical activities and demands: Spends up to several hours a day in a stationary position to assist customers Frequently moves and positions bins of books which weigh up to 30 pounds Frequently transports large numbers of books to various locations in the building Positions, places, and removes books and other library materials around, onto, and from shelves at a wide range of heights Communicates and exchanges information and ideas with customers and coworkers throughout the workday Some roles operate a computer, cash register, and other electronic devices throughout the day Other Information Applicant Information: After the closing date for this position, applications will be screened by Human Resources. Applicants referred to the department will receive an email requesting important information pertinent to the position applied for.

All updates regarding an application can be viewed through your applicant portal. In compliance with G.S. 153A-94.2(b), if this position requires an applicant for employment to work with children in any capacity, the county must require the applicant to undergo a criminal history record check conducted by the SBI for all offers of employment made after October 1, 2025

These checks must be performed in accordance with G.S. 143B-1209.26, which authorizes the SBI to provide fingerprint-based state and national criminal record checks to cities and counties. Additional information on how to complete this required check will be provided to the selected candidate after an offer of employment is accepted

New Hanover County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.