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Library Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Library Clerk

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $16.38/hr

Library Division: Ottumwa Campus Opening Date: 06/23/2026 FLSA: Non-Exempt Description Support the day-to-day operations of the library and front-line student technology assistance. Provide excellent ...

Library Clerk

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $16.38/hr

Library Division: Ottumwa Campus Opening Date: 06/23/2026 FLSA: Non-Exempt Description Support the day-to-day operations of the library and front-line student technology assistance. Provide excellent ...

TITLE: Library Resource Technician DEPARTMENT: Historical Preservation CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: - Organizes and Maintains a Meskwaki Data Base - (Windows based ...

Library Aide (Part-Time)

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$27.22 - $36.50/hr

Library Opening Date: 06/14/2026 Closing Date: 6/28/2026 11:59 PM Central FLSA: Non-Exempt Bargaining Unit: NLIB Position Summary GENERAL SUMMARY: Under general supervision of the Adult Services ...

Library Aide (Part-Time)

Asbury, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $15.75/hr

Job Title Under general supervision of the Adult Services Manager, assist the librarians by helping readers in the use of library catalogs, databases, and indexes to locate books and other materials ...

Library Aide (Part-Time)

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$27.22 - $36.50/hr

Under general supervision of the Adult Services Manager, assist the librarians by helping readers in the use of library catalogs, databases, and indexes to locate books and other materials; and by ...

Position Information Position Title Library Technician II, part-time Job Category Job Type Support Staff, Hourly Supervisor's Title Associate Dean of Libraries-District Lead Location Scott Community ...

Check library catalog for requested items * Enter short item records into library on-line system * Check new materials against invoices * Process new library materials and assist in maintaining ...

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Library information

See Iowa salary details

$7

$14

$27

How much do library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for library in Iowa is $14.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.06 and $16.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you get hired at a library with no experience?

Library positions such as library assistants or clerks often do not require prior experience and may provide on-the-job training. Having good organizational skills, customer service abilities, and familiarity with library systems can improve chances of hiring, even without previous experience. Entry-level roles typically focus on supporting library operations and customer needs.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian typically requires a master's degree in library science or information studies and relevant experience. Competition can vary depending on the location and type of library, but strong organizational skills and familiarity with library management systems improve job prospects.

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

To thrive as a Librarian, you typically need a Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS), strong research skills, and organizational abilities. Familiarity with library management systems, digital archives, and cataloguing tools like MARC or Dewey Decimal Classification is essential. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills help librarians engage diverse patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies ensure effective resource management, support lifelong learning, and enhance community access to information.

What kind of jobs do libraries offer?

Libraries offer a variety of jobs including librarian, library assistant, archivist, cataloger, and technical services staff. These roles often require skills in organization, customer service, and familiarity with library management systems or cataloging tools. Positions may be full-time, part-time, or seasonal, and some roles require relevant certifications or degrees in library science.

Can you work at a library without being a librarian?

Yes, many library jobs do not require a librarian certification and include roles such as library assistants, clerks, or technicians. These positions often involve tasks like shelving, checking out materials, and helping patrons, and may require customer service skills and familiarity with library systems. Certification is typically not necessary unless applying for professional librarian roles with specific qualifications.

What do library workers do?

Library workers assist patrons in finding and borrowing materials, organize and maintain collections, and help with research and technology use. They may also plan educational programs, manage digital resources, and support community events. The specific duties depend on the role, such as librarian, library assistant, or technician, but all focus on making information accessible to the public.

What Qualifications Do I Need to Get a Job in a Library?

Different library jobs have varying qualifications. To become a librarian, you need a master’s degree in either library science or information studies. This is important if you work with students in an academic setting. You also need some research experience and a strong awareness of research procedures and tools. Library technicians and assistants need to have a high school diploma or a GED certificate and strong administrative skills. If you are seeking a job in library computer support, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in information technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by library staff when adapting to digital resources and technology?

Library staff often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving digital platforms, assisting patrons with varying levels of tech literacy, and integrating new technologies with existing catalog systems. Balancing traditional library services with digital resource management requires ongoing training and flexibility. However, many libraries provide professional development opportunities and foster a supportive team environment to help staff successfully navigate these changes.

What jobs can you work at a library?

Jobs at a library include librarian, library assistant, library technician, archivist, and library clerk. These roles involve tasks such as managing collections, assisting patrons, cataloging materials, and maintaining library operations, often requiring relevant education or certifications. Staff typically work during library hours and use tools like library management software.

Is librarian a low stress job?

Librarians typically experience moderate stress levels, as their work involves managing collections, assisting patrons, and maintaining organization. Factors such as workload, library size, and public interaction can influence stress, but the job generally offers a calm environment with regular hours. Certification and strong organizational skills are often required for success in this role.

What is the difference between Library vs Archivist?

AspectLibraryArchivist
Required CredentialsLibrary degree or certification, MLS/MLISArchival certification, MLS/MLIS often preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special librariesArchives, museums, historical institutions
Industry UsageInformation management, education, public servicePreservation, historical records, cultural heritage

Libraries and archivists both manage information resources, but libraries focus on providing access to current materials for the public or specific groups, while archivists preserve historical records and rare collections. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Library jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Library jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Library job openings:
Infographic showing various Library job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,744 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
Library Assistant Director

Library Assistant Director

Davenport Public Library

Davenport, IA • On-site

$39.95/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Why work for the Library?

We're not just about books-we're a community hub where imagination, learning, and connection thrive. If you are enthusiastic about making a positive impact in the community and providing public service, we invite you to join us in our mission to connect a diverse community to resources that educate, enrich, and entertain. Ready to turn the page on a new adventure? Come be part of our team!

We offer a comprehensive benefit package. The cost for a family plan for medical, dental, vision and prescription is only $98.61 per month for 2025 and starts on first day of employment.

Starting Pay: $38.97/hr After 6 Months: $39.95/hr

We also offer:

Iowa Public Employee's Retirement Pension plan
457 Deferred Compensation - The City will contribute 5% of the employee's income to his/her 457 account if the employee contributes at least 1%.
14 paid holidays
Paid time off
Life Insurance
Long Term Disability Insurance
Tuition Reimbursement
Flexible spending accounts

Definition

Under the direction of the Library Director, responsible for managing a variety of administrative duties requiring advanced or specialized knowledge and skills; in the absence of the Library Director or department supervisors, may be in charge of multiple library operations; trains, supervises, evaluates, mentors, and coaches employees; interprets, implements, and enforces policy; coordinates and carries out cross-departmental or library-wide projects and training; responsible for gathering and interpreting library statistical evaluations and measuring success; manages collection development; maintains knowledge of current library science practice; and serves as a strategic partner on The Library's administrative and leadership teams.

This position may require scheduling at any library facility as well as off-site locations during various hours and shifts, including days, nights, and weekends, and have the availability to respond to emergency situations as needed.

Examples of Duties

  • Creates a welcoming environment by providing excellent customer service and maintaining the appearance of public areas.
  • Demonstrates commitment to The Library's mission and vision by actively promoting services and resources.
  • Communicates effectively with colleagues, patrons, stakeholders, and the community by responding to queries in a timely manner.
  • Communicates organizational priorities, decisions, and policies to employees in a timely manner and ensures compliance.
  • Actively participates as a member of the leadership team by sharing ideas that help to make needed organizational change.
  • Demonstrates effective leadership by supporting and promoting the mission and vision of The Library by recognizing issues and taking the initiative to make changes.
  • Establishes and maintains positive working relationships with colleagues through open communication and offering expertise to improve processes, systems, and The Library as a whole.
  • Strategically plans for the organization through setting priorities, goals, and benchmarks to aid in growth of The Library.
  • Contributes to developing the organizational culture by promoting transparency and collaboration between all departments.
  • Directs problem solving at all levels by analyzing organizational impacts and collaborating with the leadership team to determine solutions.
  • Provides oversight to the operation of The Library through the implementation of policies and procedures and assisting with managing the budget.
  • Manages employee performance through effective use of goal setting, performance feedback, evaluations, and coaching.
  • Assists in the interviewing and hiring process as appropriate.
  • Prepares documentation and reports, make presentations, and reports to library stakeholders and others as necessary.
  • Oversees library collection development; assigns budgets, monitors performance, and implements changes as necessary.
  • Evaluates operations, measures success, and assesses needs to determine library service responses.
  • Oversees all library programming initiatives.
  • Serves as project manager for cross-department and library-wide projects.
  • Assumes additional organizational roles that support organizational goals and objectives, including but not limited to serving as department supervisor in the event of a supervisor vacancy.
  • Manages and uses software to schedule employees to meet organizational needs and assists with coverage as needed.
  • Works with department supervisors to create and develop procedures and training manuals as appropriate.
  • Responsible for the supervision and operation of The Library in the absence of the Library Director.

Master's Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited college or university. Minimum five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in a public library at a professional level. Minimum three (3) years progressive supervisory experience. Certification with the State Library of Iowa required upon employment and retained throughout employment.

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