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Library Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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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.

More about Library jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Library jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Library jobs in Iowa? For Library jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Library jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Library jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Library job openings:
Library jobs near you
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.
Substitute Library Clerk

Substitute Library Clerk

Southeast Polk Community School District

Pleasant Hill, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Substitute/Substitute Library Clerk
Date Posted:
6/2/2026
Location:
District-Wide
This is a general position listing and there may or may not be a specific opening at this time.
If a position becomes available, your application materials may be reviewed by hiring managers.
Job Description
Job Title: Substitute Library Clerk
Qualifications:
Required:
  1. Minimum of High School Diploma required, advanced degree preferred.
  2. Prefer experience in library science.
  3. Prefer experience with computers.
  4. Knowledge of children's literature.
  5. Organizational ability.
  6. Experience in working with children.
  7. High school graduate.
Reports to:Building Principal
Job Goal:To assist the teacher librarian and building principal in the maintenance of the library collection and in the operations of the library/media center, providing assistance to students and teachers.
Performance Responsibilities:
  1. Maintain library collection at direction of teacher librarian.
  2. Assist students in finding appropriate materials.
  3. Assist teaching staff in securing appropriate reference materials.
  4. Under the direction of the teacher librarian, assist students in use of the media center.
  5. Keep abreast of children's literature materials in consultation with teaching staff.
  6. Assist teaching staff in securing AV equipment and materials.
  7. Provide minor maintenance on AV equipment.
  8. Maintain library area as a functional teaching center.
  9. Maintain library inventory.
  10. Recommend additions or deletions to the library collection.
  11. Library instruction within units of study.
  12. Provide an appropriate role model for the students.
  13. Maintain confidentiality on sensitive information.
  14. Other duties as assigned.
Physical Demands
  1. Must be capable of standing throughout the work day.
  2. Must present appropriate appearance and personal cleanliness suited to working in close proximity to school age children and adults.
  3. Must be able to work with interruptions during a work shift.
  4. Must be capable of working with students with different personalities, capabilities, and physical and mental limitations.
  5. Must have physical dexterity in limbs and digits necessary to physically interact with children in a school setting.
Note: The physical demands described above represent real life tasks an employee may need to perform as part of the essential functions of this job. While the frequency may be low, the above stated physical demands may be required during the course of a daily work shift. Tasks that have physical demands that exceed the above stated limits should only be performed with sufficient manpower or material handling equipment.
Evaluation:Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of Southeast Polk Board Policy.
Terms of Employment:
  1. Employment based on need; report on days the students are in school.
  2. Hours and number of days assigned as need requires.

Disclaimer:
The statements of this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel in this position. These statements are not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his or her supervision.
It is the policy of the Southeast Polk Community School District not to illegally discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), genetic information (for employment), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact, Joseph M. Horton, Deputy Superintendent, Equal Opportunity Coordinator and Title IX Coordinator, Southeast Polk District Office, 8031 NE University Ave., Pleasant Hill, IA 50327, (515)-967-4294,joseph.horton@southeastpolk.org. Inquiries or grievances may also be directed to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0201, (515) 281-4121; or the U.S. Department of Education, Region VII Office of Civil Rights, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1475, Chicago IL 60661.

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