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Library Work Jobs in British Columbia (NOW HIRING)

Chief Librarian

Surrey, BC ยท On-site

CA$206K - CA$243K/yr

Reporting directly to the Library Board and serving as Secretary to the Board, the Chief Librarian also sits on the City of Surrey's executive team and works closely with the Board, senior leadership ...

ILL & Circulation Assistant

Vancouver, BC ยท On-site

CA$4.4K - CA$4.6K/mo

Work Performed Interlibrary Loans * Coordinates the Law Library's interlibrary loan services and performs detailed routines related to ILL operations. This involves a fee-for-service operation and ...

Senior GIC Assistant

Vancouver, BC ยท On-site

CA$4.4K - CA$4.6K/mo

... smooth library operations. Organizational Status Reports to the GIC Operation Manager. May provide direction to and supervise student staff. Work Performed 1. Air Photo Search and Retrieval

... work across Maya, Nuke, Houdini, Katana, and Blender * Ensure services, libraries, and tools are stable, well-documented, and follow coding standards set by the pipeline team. Team Leadership ...

Pipeline TD - Lead

Vancouver, BC ยท On-site

CA$100K - CA$125K/yr

... work across Maya, Nuke, Houdini, Katana, and Blender * Ensure services, libraries, and tools are stable, well-documented, and follow coding standards set by the pipeline team. Team Leadership ...

Operations Administrator

Vancouver, BC ยท Hybrid

CA$25 - CA$29/hr

... libraries, coordinate shipments, assist with procurement, and provide general administrative support. This person will work closely with the Operations Manager and support approximately 40 employees ...

Project Coordinator

Vancouver, BC ยท On-site

CA$5.5K - CA$6.4K/mo

Daniel Goldowitz, Senior Scientist at the Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics and PI for the Lived Experience Library: Brain-based Pediatric Conditions. This position will also work ...

CA$91K - CA$194K/yr

We own the C++ libraries and tooling that provide core network communication for games as well as ... This role is based in our Vancouver, BC office and follows an onsite work schedule of four days per ...

Safety Coordinator

Vancouver, BC ยท On-site

CA$89K - CA$112K/yr

Vancouver Public Library Worksite: Human Resources Company: The Vancouver Public Library (VPL) is ... Work with site supervisor on orders, draft response letter & ensure compliance with ongoing ...

Maintain and improve our shared C/C++ library, ensuring seamless integration with NDK (Android). * Work on complex maintenance tasks, including code refactoring, performance optimizations, and ...

Maintain and improve our shared C/C++ library, ensuring seamless integration with NDK (Android). * Work on complex maintenance tasks, including code refactoring, performance optimizations, and ...

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Library Work information

What is library work?

Library work involves a variety of tasks related to managing and organizing library resources, assisting patrons, and maintaining the daily operations of a library. This can include cataloging books and materials, helping visitors locate information, planning programs, and ensuring that the library remains a welcoming and efficient space. People in library work may be librarians, library assistants, or technicians, and they often use technology to support research and information retrieval. The job requires strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in library work, and why are they important?

To thrive in library work, you typically need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in library science or information management, often supported by a degree or certification such as an MLIS. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), cataloging software, and digital resource management tools is essential. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills help you assist patrons and collaborate with colleagues effectively. These abilities ensure efficient library operations, positive user experiences, and the accurate management of resources in a dynamic information environment.

What are some common challenges faced in library work and how can they be addressed?

Library work often involves balancing multiple responsibilities, such as assisting patrons, managing resources, and handling administrative tasks. A common challenge is adapting to evolving technology and digital resources, which requires ongoing learning and flexibility. Additionally, libraries can experience periods of high patron demand, making time management and customer service skills essential. Addressing these challenges involves staying current with professional development opportunities, collaborating closely with team members, and leveraging available training resources to continuously improve service delivery.

What is the difference between Library Work vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary WorkLibrary Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a degree in library scienceHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries; involves customer service and organizational tasksSimilar environments; focuses on assisting patrons and managing materials
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, government agenciesLibraries, schools, community centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsEntry-level position details, duties, and training

Library Work encompasses a range of roles within libraries, often requiring specific credentials and involving organizational, customer service, and administrative tasks. Library Assistants typically perform similar duties but usually with less formal education requirements and on-the-job training. Both roles are vital in library operations, serving the community and supporting library functions.

What are popular job titles related to Library Work jobs in British Columbia?

For Library Work jobs in British Columbia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Work jobs in British Columbia look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Work jobs in British Columbia are:

Infographic showing various Library Work job openings in British Columbia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Chief Librarian

Surrey, BC โ€ข On-site

CA$206K - CA$243K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Location: Surrey, BC

Salary: $206,917 - $243,383 | full-time, permanent

Application deadline: September 17, 2026

Surrey Libraries is seeking an inspiring and visionary leader to serve as its next Chief Librarian. Serving a vibrant and rapidly growing community of more than 700,000 residents, the Chief Librarian will provide strategic leadership and operational direction to a dynamic library system that includes 10 branches, mobile services, and a thriving online presence.

Reporting directly to the Library Board and serving as Secretary to the Board, the Chief Librarian also sits on the City of Surrey's executive team and works closely with the Board, senior leadership, and City leadership to deliver innovative programs, services, and spaces that reflect the Library's vision, mission, and strategic goals. This is an opportunity to lead a talented and passionate team of 300 staff, fostering a culture that is vibrant, patron-focused, achievement-oriented, and committed to meeting the diverse needs of Surrey's communities.

You will translate the Board's vision and goals into actionable strategies that guide services, programs, spaces, and partnerships. You will oversee the development of budgets, policies, and procedures that ensure excellence in library services, while advocating for sustainable funding and pursuing opportunities such as grants, sponsorships, and endowments.

Internally, you will champion workforce development, recruitment, training, and labour relations in a unionized environment, ensuring alignment with organizational values and priorities. Externally, you will be a visible and influential leader, building strong partnerships with community groups, funders, government, and stakeholders, while representing the Library to City leadership, the media, and the public. You will assess community needs and guide the development of inclusive, accessible, and innovative services that reflect the diversity of Surrey.

The ideal candidate will bring an ALA-accredited Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS), or an equivalent combination of education and experience, along with significant leadership experience in a complex, multifaceted, and preferably unionized environment; library or non-profit experience is a strong asset. You will be a forward-thinking, relationship-focused leader with exceptional communication skills, proven success in managing large operating and capital budgets, and the ability to navigate complex political and community contexts with integrity. Experience working with diverse communities and fostering innovative programs will be essential.

This is a rare opportunity to lead one of Canada's most dynamic public libraries at an exciting time of growth and innovation.

We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and are committed to fostering a recruitment process that is equitable and inclusive.

For more information about Surrey Libraries, visit https://www.surreylibraries.ca.

If you are ready to inspire, innovate, and connect in service to Surrey's residents, we invite you to apply.