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Music Library Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

World-class research facilities near the campus include the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian ... Links: music.umd.edu; theclarice.umd.edu; arts.umd.edu Reporting to the Assistant Director for ...

... * Assist in the organization of library physical collections and media. * Handle disks and drives ... Knowledge of current streaming, music and talk radio user experience strategies is strongly ...

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Music Library Assistant information

See Washington salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do music library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for music library assistant in Washington is $21.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a music library assistant?

To thrive as a Music Library Assistant, you need a background in music, strong organizational skills, and attention to detail, often supported by a degree in music or library science. Familiarity with library cataloging systems, digital archiving tools, and databases such as MARC or WorldCat is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, customer service abilities, and problem-solving help you assist patrons and collaborate with colleagues effectively. These skills and qualities enable efficient management of music collections and ensure users can access materials smoothly.

What are some common challenges faced by music library assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Music Library Assistants often encounter challenges such as efficiently cataloging diverse music formats, managing special collections, and assisting patrons with specialized research requests. Staying organized and familiar with cataloging systems like MARC and RDA can help manage these tasks effectively. Additionally, building strong communication skills and collaborating closely with librarians and faculty can ensure patrons receive accurate information and resources promptly. Continuous learning about new music technologies and archival practices also supports success in this dynamic environment.

What does a music library assistant do?

A Music Library Assistant helps manage and organize music collections in libraries, universities, or other institutions. Their tasks typically include cataloging music scores, recordings, and related materials, assisting patrons in locating and borrowing music resources, and maintaining the library's database. They may also help with shelving, handling circulation duties, and supporting librarians with special projects or events. Strong organizational skills and a knowledge of music are often important for this role.

What is the difference between Music Library Assistant vs Music Archivist?

AspectMusic Library AssistantMusic Archivist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer associate's degreeBachelor's or master's degree in library science, musicology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLibraries, educational institutions, music departmentsArchives, museums, specialized music collections
Primary ResponsibilitiesOrganizing music collections, cataloging, assisting patronsPreserving, cataloging, and managing historical music collections
Industry UsageCommon in educational and public library settingsFound in archival institutions and specialized music repositories

The main difference is that a Music Library Assistant primarily supports day-to-day library operations and assists users, while a Music Archivist focuses on preserving and managing historical music collections. Both roles require knowledge of music and cataloging, but the Archivist typically has more advanced credentials and works in specialized settings.

What are popular job titles related to Music Library Assistant jobs in Washington? For Music Library Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Music Library Assistant jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Music Library Assistant jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Music Library Assistant jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Music Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Music Library Assistant job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 63% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,011 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Music Library Assistant (Student)

American University

Washington, DC • On-site

$18.40/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


American University rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Work Where You Learn: Build Experience, Grow Skills, and Contribute to Your University Community.
This position is available only to enrolled American University students.
Most student positions at American University are eligible to use Federal Work Study (FWS) awards, with a few exceptions. FWS funds cannot be applied to janitorial, construction, partisan or sectarian positions. For information or questions regarding FWS funds, please contact American University's Office of Financial Aid.
Important guidance for current American University employees: American University current employees, including those employed in student positions, must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log into your employee Workday account and select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings. Applying outside of your employee Workday account may cause delays in a hire process.
Department:
Music Library
Time Type:
Part time
FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt
Job Description:
Summary:
The Music Library Student Assistant supports the operations of the Music Library at the borrowing desk. The student assistant organizes the Music Library's collections, answers phone and chat inquiries, and provides preliminary reference assistance to patrons at the borrowing desk. The incumbent will also assist with special projects designed to improve awareness of and access to the Library's collections.
Essential Functions:
  • Checking library materials in and out and shelving them appropriately.
  • Assisting patrons in the use of resources such as searching the Library's catalog and music-specific databases.
  • Troubleshooting computers, audio equipment, copier, and other AV equipment.
  • Providing patrons with the status of materials requested.
  • Complete other duties at the discretion of management.
  • Curating social media profiles.
  • Inventory.
  • Event production assistance.
  • Archival work.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
  • Part-time.
  • 10 hours per week.
Salary Range:
  • $18.40 per hour.
Required Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or its equivalent.
  • Enrolled American University student in Fall 2026.
  • Excellent customer service, organization, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrated interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently under minimal supervision.
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritize and multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
  • Some knowledge of various genres of music, experience with social media and good work ethic.
Preferred Education and Experience:
  • Familiarity with the Library of Congress call number system, and some experience troubleshooting Mac and PC computers.
  • Students in the Department of Performing Arts or with the ability to read music are desirable.
  • Availability on Mondays and/or Thursdays between 1-5:30 PM is preferred.
Additional Eligibility Qualifications:
  • It is highly recommended that a cover letter and resume be submitted as attachments to the online application.
Other Details
  • This position is available only to enrolled American University students.
  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
  • American University is an E-Verify employer.
  • Visit https://www.american.edu/hr/ for additional information about American University employment and benefits.

Current American University Employees
American University current employees (including those employed in student positions) must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log into Workday and select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.
Contact Us
For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu.
American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.

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