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Part Time Library Assistant Jobs in Marion, IA (NOW HIRING)

Library Shelver

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$17.05 - $18.77/hr

Busse Library, IA Job Type: Part-Time Department: Library Opening Date: 07/20/2026 Closing Date: 8 ... In this role, you'll shelve books and other materials, maintain orderly collections, assist with ...

Part Time Library Assistant information

See Marion, IA salary details

$8

$18

$27

How much do part time library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time library assistant in Marion, IA is $18.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Part Time Library Assistants?

Part Time Library Assistants are support staff who work in libraries on a part-time basis, assisting with daily operations such as checking books in and out, shelving materials, helping patrons locate resources, and maintaining library organization. They may also answer basic reference questions, assist with library programs or events, and help keep records updated. This role typically requires strong customer service skills, attention to detail, and basic computer proficiency. Schedules are usually flexible, making this position ideal for students or those seeking supplemental income.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part Time Library Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and preferably a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library management systems, cataloging software, and basic office equipment is commonly required. Excellent customer service, communication, and teamwork abilities help you assist patrons and support library staff effectively. These skills ensure efficient library operations and a positive experience for all library users.

What Does a Part-Time Library Assistant Do?

A part-time library assistant provides support to the librarian and other staff members of a library. In this career, your responsibilities typically include administrative duties, such as shelving books, assisting with patron checkout, and maintaining the circulation desk area. It is often a public-facing position where you help a customer find the information they need. The scope of these jobs varies with the type of facility. There are many specialty libraries in addition to the familiar public institution, such as government, post-secondary college, and medical and law school libraries. Evening and weekend hours are commonplace, but you do not typically work on public holidays.

How much does a librarian make part-time?

Part-time library assistants typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the library's size. They often work evenings, weekends, or flexible hours and may require basic customer service skills and familiarity with library systems.

What are the most common challenges faced by part-time library assistants, and how can they be managed?

Part-time library assistants often juggle a wide range of tasks, such as assisting patrons, shelving materials, and supporting library programs, sometimes within short shifts. One common challenge is effectively prioritizing and completing tasks during busy periods, especially when the library sees high foot traffic. Developing strong time management skills and maintaining clear communication with team members and supervisors can help manage these challenges. Additionally, staying adaptable and open to learning new library systems or procedures ensures a smoother workflow and positive patron experiences.

What qualifications do you need for a library assistant?

A library assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong organizational skills, good communication, and basic computer literacy are important; some positions may require familiarity with library management software. Additional certifications are not usually required but can be beneficial.

How to become a library assistant with no experience?

To become a library assistant with no experience, focus on developing basic customer service and organizational skills, and consider volunteering or gaining experience in similar environments. Many libraries offer on-the-job training, and having a high school diploma or equivalent is often sufficient for entry-level positions. Familiarity with library catalog systems or computer skills can be helpful but are not always required initially.

Is there demand for library assistants?

The demand for library assistants remains steady, as many libraries and educational institutions continue to hire part-time staff to support daily operations, customer service, and cataloging. Employment opportunities can vary by region and library size, with skills in customer service and familiarity with library management systems being advantageous.
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What cities near Marion, IA are hiring for Part Time Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Marion, IA with the most Part Time Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Part Time Library Assistant job openings in Marion, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,742 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Public Library Assistant (part-time)

Cornell College

Mount Vernon, IA • Hybrid

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Cornell College is hiring a part-time Public Library Assistant to support the operations of the first-floor circulation desk. This role plays a key part in delivering excellent service to our patrons and assisting with library programs and services.

Schedule:
Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
We are open to hiring either one individual to work daily or two individuals to share the schedule (2–3 days per week each).

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide front-line support at the first-floor circulation desk.
  • Collaborate closely with the Public Library Director and Circulation Supervisor to ensure smooth daily operations and a welcoming environment for all visitors.

About Cole Public Library

Cole Public Library is half of a unique collaboration with the Cornell College Library. Together, the public and academic libraries make up the Russell D. Cole Library. In service to the Mount Vernon Community, it is the mission of the Cole Public Library to foster and support citizens’ exploration of ideas, use of information, and opportunities for reading, viewing, and listening.

About Cornell College

Cornell College is a selective liberal arts college distinguished by our Ingenuity curriculum that builds on the strengths of our One Course At A Time schedule. This combination encourages the qualities of being thoughtful, original, and inventive, using the strengths of a liberal arts education to apply ideas to solve problems and meet challenges through hands-on experience in learning. Academic immersion, Division III NCAA athletic teams, and unparalleled flexibility attract an ambitious student body from across the U.S. and worldwide. We are located in Mount Vernon, Iowa, an urban fringe community located in the heart of the ICR Iowa region.

Education, Experience, and Certification
High School diploma required. Library experience preferred.

Preferred Skills
Excellent communication skills. Basic knowledge of general library procedures and customer service.

Physical Working Conditions
The work is varied, with some sitting, some standing, some lifting, and some walking around. Employees will be required to perform other job-related duties as assigned. All requirements are subject to change over time, with possible modifications made to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.  The hiring pay rate for the position is $16.50 per hour.

Application Process

To apply, submit a resume and list of at least three professional references through Cornell College's online application system.

Cornell is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. Cornell complies with Iowa's Smoke-Free Air Act. Cornell utilizes E-Verify and requires satisfactory completion of a background check.