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Library Information Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The New York Public Library

The Library is seeking a Library Information Assistant to provide service to patrons of all ages. Information Assistants are responsible for assisting with information queries, providing circulation ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The Information Assistant provides research and reference assistance to library users with an emphasis on support for Microforms and Government Information. This is a public service position ...

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How much do library information assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for library information assistant in the United States is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a library information assistant typically collaborate with librarians and patrons during a busy day?

Library Information Assistants often work closely with librarians to support daily operations, such as assisting with reference inquiries, managing circulation desks, and organizing materials. They interact directly with patrons, helping them locate resources, use library technology, and understand library policies. On busy days, effective communication and teamwork are essential, as assistants may need to triage requests, support programming, and ensure a welcoming environment for all visitors. This collaborative approach helps maintain efficient library services and enhances the patron experience.

What qualifications are needed to be a library information assistant?

A library information assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with strong communication and organizational skills. Some positions may require familiarity with library management software or basic computer skills, and relevant certifications are not usually mandatory but can be advantageous.

What is the difference between Library Information Assistant vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary Information AssistantLibrary Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationPost-secondary education or certification in library technology
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries; customer service focusMore technical tasks; cataloging, shelving, and equipment maintenance
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting patrons, managing resources, basic clerical tasksSupporting cataloging, technical processing, and library systems

The Library Information Assistant primarily handles customer service and administrative tasks, while the Library Technician performs more technical duties like cataloging and system support. Both roles are essential in library operations, but they differ in required skills and responsibilities.

What is a library information assistant?

Library Information Assistants are support staff who help patrons find and use library resources, provide information services, and assist with day-to-day library operations. Their duties may include checking materials in and out, shelving books, answering basic reference questions, and helping visitors use computers or other technology. They play an important role in ensuring that library services run smoothly and that patrons have a positive experience. Library Information Assistants often work under the supervision of librarians and may also help with special events or administrative tasks.

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

To thrive as a Library Information Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of library science, often supported by a relevant associate degree or library coursework. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), cataloging software, and digital databases is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities help build positive experiences for library patrons. These skills ensure efficient library operations, accurate resource management, and high-quality support for users.

How do you become a library information assistant?

To become a library information assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and strong communication and organizational skills. Some positions may require familiarity with library management software or customer service experience, and a background in library science is not usually necessary for entry-level roles.
What cities are hiring for Library Information Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Library Information Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Library Information Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Library Information Assistant jobs include:
Library Information Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Information Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,859 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Library Information Assistant - Melrose Library

The New York Public Library

New York, NY

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

New York Public Library rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
Overview
The New York Public Library (NYPL) has been an essential provider of free books, information, ideas, and education for all New Yorkers for more than 100 years. NYPL’s neighborhood libraries in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island—many of which date to Andrew Carnegie’s visionary philanthropy at the turn of the 20th century—are being transformed into true centers of educational innovation and service, and vital community hubs that provide far more than just free books and materials.  

The Library is seeking a Library Information Assistant to provide service to patrons of all ages.  Information Assistants are responsible for assisting with information queries, providing circulation services, and supporting the outreach and programming activities of the Library. They should be a creative customer service expert with a passion for helping people explore resources in ways that allow them to follow their interests and discover new ones.
Key Responsibilities
Under the general supervision of the Library Manager, a Library Information Assistant:
  • Provides circulation/reference service and instruction to library patrons of all ages using print, media and digital resources
  • Answers questions from the public in person, over the telephone and electronically
  • Performs community outreach to promote and increase public participation and use of library services
  • Assists in planning and delivering library programs for children, teens and/or adults
  • Instructs patrons on the use of the Internet, computer applications and other Library services
  • Assists with fines & fees management, collection development/weeding, reserves and opening/closing procedures
  • Ensures patrons follow library policies and procedures
  • May take responsibility for the facility, staff and operations in the absence of the Library Manager
  • Performs other related duties as required

Required Education, Experience & Skills
Required Education & Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree required, preferably with a strong, well-rounded liberal arts background
Required Skills 
  • Successfully demonstrated public service experience with the ability to work well with a diverse patronage
  • Demonstrated interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
  • Successfully demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
  • Appreciation of literature and desire to encourage reading in others
  • Strong organization and planning skills, including the ability to perform multiple projects or tasks simultaneously
  • Strong computer and other related technology skills, including MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Google applications, PCs, Macs and e-reader devices
  • Demonstrated knowledge of computer services including on-line searching, social media and reference resources and databases
  • Preferred language: Spanish
Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities: 
  • May temporarily oversee the library in the absence of the Library Manager

Preferred Qualifications
Experience creating, conducting and/or participating in community training, programming and outreach preferred

More
Our Core Values:  
  • Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
  • Be Resourceful in solving problems 
  • Be Curious in all aspects of your work
  • Be Welcoming and Inclusive
Work Environment
  • Public service library
Physical Duties:
  • Lifting up to 15 lbs.
  • Sitting and standing for periods of time
  • Daily use of a computer
Physical Required?
No
Union/Non Union
Local 1930
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Schedule
35 hours per week to be scheduled during branch hours
This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed.
The New York Public Library Salary Statement

At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such, including, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies.

Union Salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).

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About New York Public Library

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The New York Public Library is a free provider of education and information for the people of New York and beyond. With 92 locations--including research and branch libraries--throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island, the Library offers free materials, computer access, classes, exhibitions, programming and more to everyone from toddlers to scholars, and has seen record numbers of attendance and circulation in recent years. The New York Public Library serves more than 18 million patrons who come through its doors annually and millions more around the globe who use its resources at www.nypl.org.

Industry

Libraries and archives

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1895

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