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Library Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Multnomah County, OR

Library Shelvers

Gresham, OR

$16.80/hr

Library Department Job Type: On-Call Exemption Status: United States of America (Non-Exempt) Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified): July 26, 2026 The Opportunity: Did you know?

Jefferson College

Music Librarian

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

Position Information Position Title Music Librarian Department Music Responsibilities Duties include the management and organization of the sheet music libraries for the wind ensemble, choirs, and ...

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Library information

See Portland, OR salary details

$8

$16

$30

How much do library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for library in Portland, OR is $16.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $18.61 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Library jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Library jobs in Portland, OR? For Library jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Library jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Library jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Library job openings:
Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,712 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Library Assistant

City of St. Helens, Oregon

Saint Helens, OR

$18.69/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

The City of St. Helens is currently seeking a dedicated professional to fill the role of Part-Time Library Assistant at the esteemed St. Helens Public Library. Located in the picturesque city of St. Helens, Oregon, this position starts at $18.69 per hour.

WHAT SETS US APART

At the City of St. Helens, we're more than just a municipality - we're a tight-knit community united by a shared commitment to progress and prosperity. Our mission is simple: to enhance the quality of life for all residents through innovative solutions and responsive public service. Guided by our core values of integrity, accountability, and inclusivity, we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where every voice is heard, and every individual is valued.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR IN A LIBRARY ASSISTANT

  • Ability to serve as the library patron's first point of contact
  • Experience working with customers or patrons in a fast-paced work environment
  • Ability to perform a wide variety of tasks including helping patrons search the library catalog, helping patrons using the public computers, and checking out/in library materials
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and integrated library systems
  • Ability to assist library staff in developing library programs, including brochures and flyers, children's activities, and makerspace offerings
  • Experience collecting money and balancing a daily till

YOUR NEW ROLE AS OUR LIBRARY ASSISTANT

This library assistant position works a rotating schedule of 20 hours per week in five-hour shifts Monday through Saturday, between 9:30 am and 7:15 pm, including periodic Saturdays and weekly evening hours as required by operational needs.

As a library assistant you will be one of the library's first contacts with our patrons. We pride ourselves in serving the public cheerfully and professionally. A typical day will include greeting patrons as they arrive; helping them find materials both in the catalog and in the library; checking in and out materials; using the till to take payment and give change for a variety of purposes; and sometimes assisting with programs. You will work closely with the three other library assistants and with the full-time professional staff.

If you are 18 years of age or older, meet the qualifications outlined above, and are eager to contribute to the educational and cultural enrichment of our community, we encourage you to apply for the Library Assistant position. Our initial application process is simple and can be completed in just a few minutes. Take the first step toward joining our dedicated team!

First review will be July 9, 2026.

If you are a veteran and would like to receive veterans' preference points, please contact Human Resources Coordinator Kathy Payne at 503-366-8217 or by email at kpayne@sthelensoregon.gov for paperwork.

The City of St. Helens is an equal opportunity employer.


Successful candidates will be required to pass a background investigation, including criminal records, driving records, and personal and professional references, including past employers.

Apply