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Library Temp Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Vertiv Co

Field Service Technician

Des Moines, IA · On-site

... libraries * Strong work/life balance commitment * Employer-of-choice for Veterans with technical ... Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship ...

Aerotek

General Production Worker

Mason City, IA

$17 - $18/hr

Individuals with backgrounds as accountants, teachers, or librarians often excel in this role due ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: * Medical ...

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Library Temp information

What is a library temp?

Library temps, or temporary library workers, are individuals hired on a short-term basis to assist with various tasks in a library. They may help with shelving books, checking materials in and out, assisting patrons, processing new materials, or supporting library events and programs. Library temps are often brought in to cover staff absences, support busy periods, or help with special projects. While they may not have the same responsibilities as permanent staff, they play an important role in keeping library operations running smoothly.

What are the typical responsibilities and challenges faced by a library temp during a busy semester?

As a Library Temp, you can expect to handle tasks such as shelving books, assisting patrons with locating resources, processing new materials, and supporting circulation desk operations. During busy semesters, you may also help manage study room reservations, answer basic research queries, and support special events. The primary challenges include adapting quickly to different workflows, handling multiple tasks efficiently, and learning library catalog systems in a short time. Strong communication skills and a customer-focused approach will help you succeed in this dynamic environment.

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

To thrive as a Library Temp, you generally need organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of library systems, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant experience. Familiarity with library cataloging software, circulation systems, and office equipment is typically required. Strong customer service, communication, and adaptability help you assist patrons and adjust to varying tasks. These skills ensure efficient library operations and positive patron experiences during temporary assignments.

What is the difference between Library Temp vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary TempLibrary Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require basic library trainingHigh school diploma; some roles may prefer library science coursework
Work EnvironmentTemporary library settings, often short-term assignmentsPermanent or long-term library environments, including public, academic, or special libraries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by staffing agencies and libraries for short-term coverageEmployed directly by libraries for ongoing support roles
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking for temporary library work or short-term positionsIndividuals seeking permanent or long-term library support roles

The main difference between a Library Temp and a Library Assistant is the employment duration and job stability. Library Temps typically work short-term assignments through staffing agencies, while Library Assistants are usually employed directly by libraries for ongoing roles. Both roles may require similar credentials, but their work environments and employment terms differ significantly.

Can you get hired at a library temp with no experience?

Library temp positions often do not require prior experience, as they typically focus on general administrative tasks, shelving, and customer service. Employers may prefer candidates with basic organizational skills and a willingness to learn, and some roles provide on-the-job training. Having familiarity with library systems or tools can be helpful but is not always necessary for entry-level temporary roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Iowa are:

Library Temp jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Temp job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Library Assistant III - Exhibits

Cedar Falls, IA • On-site

University of Northern Iowa
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 623 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about University of Northern Iowaexternal

$20.86/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Library Exhibit Coordinator

Come work at Rod Library! Join our team of dedicated faculty and staff in serving the UNI community and making a difference in students' academic lives and beyond.

This half-time position coordinates the planning and implementation of library exhibits; works with exhibit partners to design and create exhibit elements; maintains exhibits, cases and supplies; and supervises student employees and interns.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements: Three years of library work experience, or a combination of related work experience, undergraduate education and/or post high school library training totaling four years.

Position Details:

Job Category: Merit

Type of Position: Regular

Service Schedule: Calendar Year

Work Schedule: Part-time, 20 hours. Schedule will be flexible between Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Pay Grade: 10

Starting Hourly Rate: $20.86

Application Instructions:

All application materials received by July 30, 2026, will be given full consideration. To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. A resume and cover letter are not required for this position but can be attached when applying. If you have questions regarding this application process, please email careers-support@uni.edu or call 319-273-2422.

Iowa's cost of living is among the lowest in the nation and the Common Sense Institute ranks Iowa #1 for paycheck stretch. UNI enhances this advantage with an excellent benefits package for eligible non-temporary positions. Visit our Compensation Tools page to explore your estimated total compensation, compare Waterloo-Cedar Falls cost of living to other major cities or review the paycheck stretch ranking details. Learn more about the Cedar Valley at https://livethevalley.com/.

If you would like general assistance with the application process or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact Human Resource Services at hrs-employment@uni.edu or call (319) 273-2422.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

UNI is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any status protected by federal and/or state law.

Campus Security & Crime Statistics, in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, information on crime statistics for recent years, Public Safety personnel and programs, building access, reporting crimes, safety suggestions, and policies, programs, and services regarding alcohol, drugs, and sexual abuse, is available in the UNI Annual Security and Fire Report. A paper copy is available from the Department of Public Safety, 030 Gilchrist Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614.

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