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Penn Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$12/hr

CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to ... The Earth and Mineral Sciences Library is offering a Federal Work Study eligible customerservice ...

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to ... Circulate library materialsand technology * Provide assistance topatrons on library policies and ...

$20K - $250K/yr

Working Conditions Office, Library Computer Room; Requires extensive safety training; Requires ... Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life ...

$20K - $250K/yr

Working Conditions Office, Library Computer Room; Requires extensive safety training; Requires ... Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life ...

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$28.5K

$73K

$124K

How much do penn library jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for penn library in the United States is $72,983.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $85,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Penn Library staff member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Penn Library staff member, you generally need a background in library science or a related field, strong research abilities, and excellent organizational skills. Familiarity with library management systems, digital archives, and cataloging tools like Alma or WorldCat is typically required. Outstanding customer service, attention to detail, and effective communication help staff support patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These skills ensure efficient library operations, accurate resource management, and a positive user experience for students and faculty.

What is the difference between Penn Library vs Penn Librarian?

AspectPenn LibraryPenn Librarian
RoleInstitutional library facility providing access to resources and servicesProfessional responsible for managing library collections, assisting patrons, and organizing information
Required CredentialsTypically a master's degree in library science (MLS or MLIS)Master's degree in library science or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic or academic library settingLibrary, educational, or research institution
Employer & IndustryUniversities, public libraries, research institutionsLibraries, educational institutions, archives

In summary, Penn Library refers to the physical or organizational library facility, while a Penn Librarian is a professional who manages and provides services within that library. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in related environments, but their functions differ: one is the institution, the other is the professional staff.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working at the Penn Library, and how can they be addressed?

Staff at the Penn Library often navigate challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving digital resources, balancing multiple user needs, and managing large-scale research inquiries. To address these, team members are encouraged to participate in ongoing professional development, collaborate closely with colleagues across departments, and utilize robust internal support systems. Embracing new technologies and maintaining open communication with patrons and fellow staff help create a responsive and supportive work environment.

What are Penn Library jobs?

Penn Library jobs refer to a variety of employment opportunities available within the University of Pennsylvania's library system. These positions can include roles such as librarians, library assistants, archivists, IT specialists, and student workers. Employees help support library operations, assist patrons, manage collections, and contribute to academic research and learning. Working at Penn Libraries offers a chance to be part of a diverse, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating environment.
More about Penn Library jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Penn Library jobs? The most popular types of Penn Library jobs are:
What states have the most Penn Library jobs? States with the most job openings for Penn Library jobs include:
Infographic showing various Penn Library job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,983 per year, or $35.1 per hour.
Desk Assistant - STEM Branch Library, Earth and Mineral Sciences

Desk Assistant - STEM Branch Library, Earth and Mineral Sciences

The Pennsylvania State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$12/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

This position requires you to have received a work-study award.To verify if you have received a work-study award, please consult the Financial Aid Award Summary area in your LionPATH account.A Federal Work Study award does not guarantee a job is available.

The Earth and Mineral Sciences Library is offering a Federal Work Study eligible customerservice-orientedindividual toprovide assistanceat the reference and circulation desk.Responsibilities include providing service to library users; performing circulation transaction functions; opening and/or closing the library; assisting in the location of materials in the stacks, Course Reserves, reference, and on-line collections; shelving library materials, shelf-reading and maintaining collections; miscellaneous clerical, technological, and problem solving activities and projects assigned by or in absence of full-time staff; and answering general information and basic reference questions.

Experience in a public service setting preferred especially library experience and excellent computer skills preferred. Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skillsrequired. Requires the ability to follow directions and keep a schedule. Must be a dependable team player. Hours are subject to change during theadjustmentofoperation duringsemesters, breaks, and holidays.Commitment of10-24 hours a week. Night and weekendavailabilitypreferred.Seeking to interview, hire and train students in Spring 2026, with the position beginning fully in Fall 2026.

To apply for this position,please upload a cover letter and resume toindicatethe hours that you are available to work.

The starting hourly rate for this job is $12.00. Federal Work Study job performance is evaluated either annually or through ongoing mentorship. Students who received a Federal Work Study award have the opportunity to obtain a joband perform related duties eitheron campus, orremotely, if possibleand at the discretion of the employer. Students applying for Federal Work Study positions should clarify expectations with their potential employer regarding either on campus/in person or remote work arrangements.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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