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Library Research Assistant Jobs in Bloomington, IN

Work in a range of settings including academic departments, research labs, and student services ... support, library assistant and many more. Each position will have a specific set of ...

Work in a range of settings including academic departments, research labs, and student services ... support, library assistant and many more. Each position will have a specific set of ...

A unit within CPF, Facility Operations maintains our physical campus to support research, teaching ... Maintains design library and resources files. * May provide guidance to Interior Design Assistants ...

Library Research Assistant information

See Bloomington, IN salary details

$8

$17

$25

How much do library research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for library research assistant in Bloomington, IN is $17.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $19.57 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 Bloomington, IN?

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

What job categories do people searching Library Research Assistant jobs in Bloomington, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Research Assistant jobs in Bloomington, IN are:

What cities near Bloomington, IN are hiring for Library Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Bloomington, IN with the most Library Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Research Assistant job openings in Bloomington, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,944 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Research and Collections Librarian

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.

Bloomington, IN • On-site

$62.50 - $82.50/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Title

Research and Collections Librarian

Appointment Status

Tenure

Department

IU Bloomington Libraries

Location

Bloomington

Position Summary

Indiana University Libraries seeks a dynamic and collaborative Research and Collections Librarian to lead the development, assessment, and promotion of collections that support the teaching and research missions of the Kelley School of Business and the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs—two of the nation’s top‑ranked programs. This position plays a strategic role in shaping access to high‑impact resources in business, public policy, government affairs, and sustainability.

Working as part of a three‑librarian team at the Business/SPEA Library, the successful candidate will ensure that collections remain responsive to evolving curricular and research needs. This includes selecting and evaluating materials, managing budgets, and engaging with faculty and students to align resources with academic priorities.

The IU Bloomington Libraries system is one of North America’s premier academic research libraries, with over 10 million print volumes, 60,000+ electronic journals, and a renowned Moving Image Archive. The Research & Learning Division, which houses this position, fosters innovation, inclusive learning, and strategic partnerships across campus. Reporting to the Head of Sciences & Social Sciences, the librarian will contribute to a department that supports curriculum and research for over 70% of IU Bloomington students.

Responsibilities
  • Serve as the lead collection strategist for Business and Public & Environmental Affairs, overseeing selection, evaluation, and lifecycle management of monographs, serials, and databases.
  • Conduct ongoing assessments of collections and research support services to identify emerging needs, gaps, and opportunities for innovation.
  • Collaborate with faculty and campus partners to ensure collections align with curricular goals, accreditation standards, and evolving research priorities.
  • Provide research consultations that help students, faculty, and researchers effectively navigate and leverage library resources to support coursework, projects, and scholarly research.
  • Promote collections and services through targeted outreach, instruction, and engagement with stakeholders in the Kelley School of Business and the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
  • Participate actively in library‑wide initiatives, departmental programs, and campus events that enhance the visibility and impact of library resources.
Basic Qualifications
  • ALA‑accredited graduate degree in library or information science or an international equivalent; candidates with an advanced degree in a relevant subject area and appropriate experience in a library setting will also be considered.
  • Interest in working with business and public affairs library patrons at one of the top schools in the nation.
  • Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a team.
  • Demonstrated interest or experience with promoting collections and services to students, researchers, and instructors.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and knowledgeably in multiple modalities.
  • Demonstrated ability to work creatively, independently, flexibly, and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Ability to meet the tenure or tenure‑track position requirements at the IU Libraries, as demonstrated by an ongoing record of professional development and service.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Familiarity with business or public affairs concepts through experience or education.
  • Experience with selecting library materials.
  • Familiarity with materials budget allocation.
  • Assessment experience or education with monographs, serials, and databases.
Salary and Rank

Salary and rank depend on the candidate's qualifications and experience. The starting salaries are as follows: Assistant Librarians $62,500; Associate Librarians $64,500; and Full Librarians $82,500.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer and provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring.

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