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Library Research Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Custodian

Newport, RI · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Event Set up: Assist with set-up and breakdown (tables, chairs, waste receptacles, etc.) during ... cleaning research labs, high density public access areas, classrooms, and/or library space.

Textile Designer

West Warwick, RI · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Work with purchased/licensed artwork as well as existing artwork from the Natco Design Library ... Travel to relevant stores and design shows to research new and relevant trends * Assist with other ...

Textile Designer

West Warwick, RI · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Work with purchased/licensed artwork as well as existing artwork from the Natco Design Library ... Travel to relevant stores and design shows to research new and relevant trends * Assist with other ...

Showing results 21-40

Library Research Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$8

$18

$26

How much do library research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for library research assistant in Rhode Island is $18.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Rhode Island?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Library Research Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,055 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Custodian

Newport, RI • On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Clean and sanitize restrooms, classrooms, laboratories, museum space, library, and other public areas, including walls, surfaces, windows, and exterior windows.

  • Report security or safety issues, ensure buildings are secured, doors and gates are locked, and lights are turned off as appropriate.

  • Resupply cleaning supplies, maintain cleanliness of custodial equipment and closets, and assist with set-up and breakdown of event spaces.


Job description

Department:Hatfield Marine Science CenterSpecial Instructions to Applicants:

The closing date has been extended and a full consideration date has been added in order to expand the original applicant pool.

To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by August 6, 2026. Applications will continue to be accepted after the full consideration date, until a sufficient applicant pool has been achieved or the position is filled. The closing date is subject to change without notice to applicants.


When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:

1) A resume/CV; and

2) A cover letter indicating how your qualifications and experience have prepared you for this position.


Starting salary will be commensurate with skills, education, and experience.

For additional information please contact: James Bielenberg at James.Bielenberg@oregonstate.edu or 541-867-0149.

Job Summary:

This recruitment will be used to fill four full-time Custodian positions for the Hatfield Marine Science Center at Oregon State University (OSU). This position is located in Newport, Oregon.

The Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) is Oregon State University's campus for research, education, and outreach in marine and coastal sciences. The Marine Science Center is located 55 miles west of the OSU main campus in Newport, OR. Through its partnerships, HMSC improves scientific understanding of marine systems, coastal processes and resources, and applies this knowledge to social, economic, and environmental issues.


    The HMSC Custodian position is part of a team working in the evening shift with the primary purpose of ensuring that OSU and specified federal buildings on the HMSC campus are clean, well lit, secure and provide a conducive environment for quality learning and research. This position works closely with the Custodial Services Coordinator and reports to the Custodial Supervisor.


    This position is a member of the HMSC Custodial Team located in Newport, Oregon and provides custodial support to over 20 facilities on 50 acres of the HMSC campus.


    This position is eligible for paid health benefits and retirement plans, and paid vacation, sick, holiday and personal time off. It is also eligible for reduced tuition. As a shift worker, you will receive shift differential pay and overtime for work on holidays.

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Cleaning and Sanitization: Clean restrooms, large classrooms, laboratories, museum space, library, high density public access areas and touchpoints, staff lounge, areas around the buildings, empty trash and recycling, clean walls and other surfaces, cleans windows and mirrors, clean and sanitize toilets, sinks and showers, fill soap and paper dispensers, dust, sweep, mop, strip floors, wax and buff floors, vacuum and shampoo carpets, pick up litter, shovel snow, sweep steps, and wash exterior windows.
    • General Security and Safety: Report problems or concerns to the Custodial Services Coordinator or the Custodial Supervisor. Check to make sure buildings are secured, doors and gates are locked at appropriate times and lights are turned off. Report any suspicious activity.
    • Resupply: Stock shelves and/or cleaning carts with needed supplies, clean the carts and equipment at the end of the shift, test new products and make a list of supplies needed. Keep custodial closets neat and orderly.
    • Event Set up: Assist with set-up and breakdown (tables, chairs, waste receptacles, etc.) during special events.
    • Other: Other duties as assigned.
    Qualifications:

    Required Qualifications:

    • At least one year of professional cleaning experience
    • Must be available to work weekends and some holidays. The custodian shift is 40 hours per week. It begins at 5:00 pm and ends at 1:00 am.
    • Must be highly motivated, have experience working in a team environment and have exceptional customer service skills.
    • Ability to lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing up to 50 lbs.
    • In accordance with the Department of Commerce Background Investigation policy, the incumbent must successfully obtain the appropriate security clearance within 90 days of the employment start date.

    This position is designated as a critical or security-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a criminal history check and be determined to be position qualified as per University Standard: 05-010 et seq. Incumbents are required to self-report convictions and those in youth programs may have additional criminal history checks every 24 months.

    This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current, valid driver's license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self-report convictions as per University Policy 05-030.

    Preferred Qualifications:

    • Prior experience cleaning research labs, high density public access areas, classrooms, and/or library space. Demonstrable ability to communicate in a manner that shows respect and inclusivity for all co-workers.
    Working Conditions/Schedule:Working Conditions/Work Schedule: 8am - 4:30pm, 12:30pm - 9pm, (2) 5pm-1pm shifts.
    Must be available to work some weekends and holidays. Additional shifts differential is paid for shift and weekend work. Overtime for worked holidays.Salary Range:$18.06 - $22.84Anticipated Start Date:2026-08-17Anticipated End Date:

    We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.

    OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.
    OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system. If this position has "critical or security-sensitive" responsibilities and/or driving duties and you are selected as a finalist, your initial job offer will be contingent upon the results of a job-related pre-employment check (such as a background check, motor vehicle history check, sexual misconduct reference check, etc.). Background check results do not automatically disqualify a candidate. Take a look at our Background Checks website including the for candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU's Employee and Labor Relations team at employee.relations@oregonstate.edu.