Library Research Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Library Course Reserve & Student Assistant Lead
(Library Services Specialist II)

Compensation and Benefits

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $3,981 - $4,061 per month (Internal employees may be placed at a salary higher than the anticipated range as required by the collective bargaining agreement.)

Full CSU Classification Salary Range: $3,981 - $5,800 per month

• This is a full-time (equivalent to 40 hours per week), probationary, non-exempt position.

The CSU system provides a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental and vision plans, membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS), sick and vacation time, and 15 paid holidays a year. Eligible employees are also able to participate in the fee waiver education program. A summary of benefit information can be found here.

Job Summary

Under supervision of the Dean, the position works in the Circulation Unit, which is responsible for managing the access, borrowing, and returning of library materials. This position 1) oversees Course Reserves; 2) oversees student assistants in the Circulation area, and 3) position serves as a primary point of contact for library users, providing customer service, answering inquiries, and supporting access to both physical and digital resources. The position also maintains accurate records, collects fines and fees, and ensures accountability and the proper maintenance of the collection.

The position works as the only non-student staff member during evenings and weekends, which includes assuming responsibility for all aspects of patron, student assistant and building-related functions.

Key Qualifications

• Knowledge of:
  • Working knowledge of library terminology and general bibliographic forms.
  • Proficient in library organizational structure, policies and procedures including those pertaining to the circulation unit and ability to apply them accurately in performing work functions.
  • Knowledge of and ability to use automated library system(s), computer equipment and standard desktop software packages, such as word processing and spreadsheets, to perform technical work or assist patrons.
  • Library collection organization and classification scheme and ability to interpret bibliographic records.
  • University and library's policies and practices associated with the ethical use of and access to information resources online and in print.
• Skill/Ability to:
  • Use good judgment in interpreting policies and resolving patron problems and complaints.
  • Interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with patrons and guide them in the use of library resources and interpret library policies.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, and prepare detailed information and correspondence.
  • Perform detailed work with great accuracy and proficiency.
  • Perform standard business math and arithmetic operations.
  • Interpret library policies and procedures and apply them accurately in performing work functions, as well as the ability to evaluate procedures and recommend changes.
  • Demonstrated problem solving and research skills to address standard and non-standard work problems.
  • Serve as a resource to students, staff, faculty, and the community in responding to inquiries, providing detailed information and guiding patrons in use of library resources.
  • Effectively provides lead work direction and training to student workers and an understanding of employment and payroll procedures related to student workers.
  • Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships and promote a positive, service oriented collegial work environment.
  • Must be able to work evenings and weekends as scheduled.

To view the full list of qualifications and job responsibilities, please click the Position Description button above.

Education and Experience

• Equivalent to the completion of a high school or equivalent certification.
• Three years of related library and/or clerical and/or customer service experience.
  • Preferred Knowledge, Skills, or Abilities:
    • Minimum one year's previous experience working in library circulation and/or interlibrary loan.
    • Understanding of how to read Library of Congress classification numbers.
    • Ability to use word processing software, preferably Word.
    • Working knowledge of library automated systems, preferably Alma.
    • Ability to use Excel.

Department Summary

The Fresno State Library supports the University mission of education, research and service. To this end, the Library selects, develops, manages and provides access to information resources; promotes the critical use of information for learning and research; and presents cultural and scholarly programming that serves the campus, region and beyond.

Deadline & Application Instructions

Applications received by April 22, 2026 will be given full consideration by the search committee.

• Applications received after that date will be forwarded at the request of the Hiring Manager and/or search committee.

Please click "Apply Now" to complete the employment application for California State University, Fresno. Interested applicants must complete the application and attach the following: 1) their most recent resume/vitae, 2) a cover letter that addresses their specific qualifications and interest, and 3) contact information for three professional references.

Fresno State

California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Metropolitan Fresno, with a multi-ethnic population of over 527,000, is located in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. The campus is within driving distance of Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, San Francisco, Los Angeles, the Monterey Peninsula, beaches, sailing, lakes, and numerous ski resorts. Fresno boasts one of the most reasonable housing markets in California and offers a wide array of locally grown fruits and produce.

Equal Employment Opportunity Information

California State University, Fresno is committed to maintaining and implementing employment policies and procedures in compliance with applicable state and federal equal employment opportunity laws and regulations. Executive Orders 1096 and 1097 prohibit discrimination, harassment, and retaliation on the basis of a protected status: race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex (including gender identity), sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition and covered veteran status. Fresno State's commitment to diversity informs our efforts in recruitment, hiring, and retention. We are proud to be an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer.

COVID19 Vaccination Policy

Per the CSU COVID-19 Vaccination Policy, it is strongly recommended that all employees who are accessing office and campus facilities follow COVID-19 vaccine recommendations adopted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) applicable to their age, medical condition, and other relevant indications.  Questions may be sent to hr@csufresno.edu.

Supplemental Information

Following a conditional offer of employment, a background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate may start work with California State University, Fresno. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may result in the withdrawal of the offer of employment. Current employees who are offered positions on campus will be required to undergo a background check for any position where a background check is required by law or that Fresno State has identified as sensitive.

The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.

This position may be a "designated position" under the California State University's Conflict of Interest Code. This will require the filing of a Statement of Economic Interest on an annual basis and the completion of training within six (6) months of assuming office and every two (2) years thereafter.

Fresno State is a tobacco-free, smoke-free and vapor-free campus.

Fresno State is not a sponsoring agency for staff or management positions. (e.g. H1-B Visas)