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Library Research Assistant Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Bsu

Architecture Library Coordinator

Muncie, IN · On-site

$18.45 - $20.34/hr

Supervising a team of approximately 7-8 student assistants, the Architecture Library coordinator ... Manage the daily operations of the Architecture Library; ensure in-depth and high-quality research ...

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Library Research Assistant information

What does a library research assistant do?

A Library Research Assistant supports librarians and library users by helping with research tasks, locating resources, and organizing materials. They often assist patrons in finding books, articles, or data, and may help with cataloging or maintaining digital collections. Research assistants may also support academic projects, gather information for faculty or students, and help manage interlibrary loans. Their work ensures library services run smoothly and users have access to the information they need.

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

To thrive as a Library Research Assistant, you need strong research, information retrieval, and organizational skills, often supported by coursework or experience in library science or a related field. Familiarity with library databases, cataloging systems, and digital research tools like JSTOR or ProQuest is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and customer service skills help you collaborate with library staff and assist patrons efficiently. These abilities ensure accurate information delivery and foster a supportive learning environment for library users.

What are some common challenges faced by library research assistants when supporting patrons with research inquiries?

Library Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as locating credible and up-to-date resources across diverse subjects, especially when patrons have complex or interdisciplinary research needs. Balancing multiple requests during peak periods can also be demanding, requiring strong organizational and time management skills. Additionally, they may need to guide users who are unfamiliar with library databases or digital tools, which calls for patience and clear communication. Successful Library Research Assistants are adaptable and resourceful, often collaborating closely with librarians and academic staff to ensure patrons get the most accurate and relevant information.

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

AspectLibrary Research AssistantLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant courseworkAssociate's degree or certification in library technology
Work EnvironmentAcademic, public, or research librariesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with research, data collection, and resource organizationManaging cataloging, circulation, and technical services
Common UsageResearch support and information gatheringTechnical and operational library tasks

The main difference between a Library Research Assistant and a Library Technician lies in their focus and responsibilities. Library Research Assistants primarily support research activities and assist users with information gathering, while Library Technicians handle technical tasks like cataloging and managing library systems. Both roles are essential in library settings and often require similar educational backgrounds, but their day-to-day duties differ based on their focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Library Research Assistant jobs in Indiana?

For Library Research Assistant jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Research Assistant jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Research Assistant jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Library Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Library Research Assistant job openings:

Library Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Research Assistant job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Library Assistant II

Marion Co Public Library

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$18/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Library Assistant II

Location: Eagle Branch

Hours: Full-time (40 hours / week)

Schedule: May vary, but will include day, evening, and weekend hours; including mandatory occasional Sundays

Starting Hourly Rate: $18.00

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Submission Deadline: September 15th, 2026 at 11:59 pm

Please apply online at www.indypl.org. Candidates will be updated on their status via email, please no phone inquiries. A successful candidate will…

- Have previous experience working with customers face to face.

- Have previous library experience, either via past job or volunteering (preferred but not required).

- Have a high school diploma or G.E.D.

- Be available to work day, evening, and weekend hours including Sundays as assigned.

- Be able to work well in a team setting.

- Be able to navigate basic computer functions, including Microsoft Word, Excel, internet browsing, and be able to learn Library's computer systems with simple training.

- Be bilingual (preferred but not required).

What does the job look like?

  • Checks-out and renews materials to patrons. Assists patrons with questions regarding library policies, procedures and services, analyzing and making decisions regarding patron problems, using good and appropriate judgment.
  • Assists patrons with finding library materials, recommending titles, locating library materials at other branches and placing requests. Provides preliminary quick or ready reference assistance and refers in-depth research to Librarians on duty. Helps with summer reading desk.
  • Assists in collection management activities including general maintenance, sorting/shelving materials, weeding, reading shelves and moving materials as needed.
  • Evaluates items for circulation and fixes/deletes/sends items to proper department for thorough investigation. Sends damage letter to patrons and contacts patrons for missing/mismatched items.
  • Processes all outgoing and incoming materials in a timely manner. Checks items for damage and fixes/cleans material if possible. Processes and shelves holds. Checks items for RFID tags.
  • Assists patrons with library card applications.
  • Records and reports stats related to study room use; assists patrons with scheduling, reserving, and opening study rooms.
  • Learns and stays current on changing software including e-resources.
  • Prepares cash drawer and identifies reasons for overages and shortages. Prepares and delivers the bank deposit.
  • Accepts payments for overdue, lost and damaged materials, along with faxing, printing, copying services. Sets up payment plans as needed.
  • Instructs patrons and assists with computers, faxing, printing, copying and scanning.
  • Answers telephone inquiries.
  • Able to multitask while assisting patrons in a fast-moving atmosphere.
  • Able to work the normally scheduled work time for this position.
  • Able to cope with daily job-related stress and challenges.
  • What's In It for You? We offer our employees a robust compensation package! Our comprehensive benefits include: medical, dental and vision insurance coverage; 100% company-paid long term disability, employer paid basic group life insurance, a Library paid pension plan, 11 paid holidays each year, and generous amounts of PTO. The Library proudly promotes from within as part of a strong commitment to providing career growth opportunities for employees of all levels. We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and may perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

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