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Public Library Assistant Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

LIBRARY ASSISTANT I - Anchorage AK

Anchorage, AK ยท On-site

$15.95 - $23.58/hr

Library HOURS OF WORK: Hours vary, Monday through Sunday between the hours of 8:00 am to 8:00 pm ... Shelf read to ensure proper order. Assist public in use of automated handling and self-check ...

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Public Library Assistant information

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How much do public library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for public library assistant in Alaska is $20.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a public library assistant do?

A Public Library Assistant helps patrons with finding and borrowing materials, answers questions about library services, and assists with using computers and other technology. They are responsible for checking books in and out, shelving returned items, and maintaining the organization of the library. Additionally, they may help prepare materials for library programs and ensure a welcoming environment for all visitors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public library assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Library Assistant, you typically need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library catalog systems, basic computer applications, and circulation software like Sierra or Koha is often required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively assist patrons and support daily library operations. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient library services, positive patron experiences, and smooth workflow within the library environment.

What are some common challenges faced by public library assistants in managing patron needs during busy periods?

Public Library Assistants often encounter peak times when the library is bustling with visitors seeking assistance, technology support, or searching for resources. Managing multiple requests simultaneously while maintaining a welcoming and organized environment can be challenging. Developing strong multitasking, communication, and problem-solving skills is essential to effectively prioritize tasks and ensure patrons receive timely help. Teamwork is also important, as collaborating with librarians and other staff members helps distribute workloads and provide comprehensive service to the community.

What is the difference between Public Library Assistant vs Library Clerk?

AspectPublic Library AssistantLibrary Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer library experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentPublic library settings, assisting patrons, organizing materialsPublic or academic libraries, handling circulation and customer service
Employer & Industry UsagePublic libraries, community centersPublic and academic libraries, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonPublic Library Assistant vs Library Clerk

The Public Library Assistant and Library Clerk roles are similar, both working in library environments assisting patrons and managing materials. The main differences lie in job titles used by employers and slight variations in responsibilities. Both positions typically require a high school diploma and focus on customer service, organization, and support tasks within libraries.

How hard is it to get a job as a public library assistant?

Getting a job as a public library assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and good customer service skills. Competition can vary depending on location and the number of available positions, but having relevant experience or certifications in library services can improve chances of hiring.

What qualifications do you need to be a public library assistant?

Public library assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require previous customer service experience, familiarity with library systems or technology, and good communication skills. Certification is not usually required but can be beneficial for advancement.

What would you do as a public library assistant?

A public library assistant helps patrons find and check out books and other materials, manages library collections, and maintains the cleanliness and organization of the library. They may also assist with computer use, answer questions, and support library programs, often using library management software. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are important for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Public Library Assistant jobs in Alaska?

For Public Library Assistant jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Library Assistant jobs in Alaska look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Library Assistant jobs in Alaska are:

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Public Library Assistant jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Public Library Assistant job openings:

Library Assistant I-III

Sitka, AK โ€ข On-site

$17.85/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Thank you for considering employment with the City and Borough of Sitka. The following information is provided to give potential applicants awareness regarding the job. If a range of pay is advertised, starting pay dependent on experience and qualifications aligned with job requirements.

Primary Purpose of Job & Essential Duties/Responsibilities Primary Purpose of Job The primary purpose of this position is to (1) assist the pubic, staff, and volunteers in the use of library facilities, equipment, computers, programs, services, collections, online catalog, and other resources over the phone, on-line, and in person and to (2) perform the full range of basic library support tasks such as collecting cash, data entry, maintaining statistics, receiving and processing library materials, recordkeeping while maintaining a safe and secure environment through monitoring of the patron's adherence to library policies, procedures, and guidelines. Under the direct supervision of the Library Director, the employee works independently on assigned duties and responsibilities. Essential Duties and Responsibilities All levels of Library Assistants perform the following duties and responsibilities: Serves as the initial contact for all patrons Prepares Library for opening and closing and maintains building security Performs circulation desk duties to assist patrons with their requests and directing patrons to the location of books and other library materials Provides reference services to patrons on a wide variety of subjects and educational levels Arranges and maintain library materials to ensure proper order on shelves Responds to questions and inform the public about library policies and procedures Resolves or refer patron problems and complaints Searches the library catalog and collections for holdings Performs basic maintenance to library materials and identifies materials in need of repair Performs basic maintenance repairs to library materials Performs routine technical processing and collection management tasks as assigned Performs other duties as assigned Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Knowledge of: Differs depending on level of Library Assistant Library Assistant I General knowledge about books, reading, and use of libraries, obtained at the high school level English language alphabet and numbers in order to learn and use the Dewey Decimal system and other basic alpha-numeric systems Library Assistant II and III English language alphabet and numbers to organize materials using the Dewey Decimal system and other basic alpha-numeric systems Standard library practices and procedures, including searching techniques.

Equipment used in library operations, including office equipment, electronic resources, media formats Integrated Library System and Internet services Skills In: Operating a personal computer using standard software applications appropriate to assigned tasks, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint and other customized library-related software Providing strong customer service to a diverse group of people with varying cultures and backgrounds Dealing with a wide range of persons, including situations in which individuals may be upset over some issue where they are upset or disagree with a decision General mathematics, including the handling of cash Multi-tasking but still able to focus on details Organizing and prioritizing tasks Writing correspondence, professional emails, and reports of a professional nature Ability to: Provide communicate information and interact effectively to co-workers and the public to maintain library policies and public safety Empathize and manage sensitive or contentious issues with patrons professionally Recognize and maintain confidential information Maintain professional and effective relationships with co-workers and in the community Work as a team with results-driven approach Communicate well with others, both orally and in writing, using both technical and non-technical language Understand and follow oral and written policies, procedures and instructions Use logical and creative thought processes to develop solutions according to written specifications and oral instructions Perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under pressure of time sensitive deadlines and changing priorities Quickly learn and put to use new skills and knowledge Minimum Qualifications & Other Job Requirements/Expectations Minimum Qualifications Library Assistant I High School Diploma or GED; and Some work experience which includes contact with the public; or Any equivalent combination of experience, education and training which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work Library Assistant II High School Diploma or GED; some college credits, preferred; and Two years of experience working as Library Assistant I; or Any equivalent combination of experience, education and training which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work Library Assistant III High School Diploma or GED; Associate's Degree, preferred; and Two years of experience working as a Library Assistant II; or Any equivalent combination of experience, education and training which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work Movement to the next level may occur once an employee has the required years of experience at the Sitka Public Library so long as the employee has had an overall performance rating of satisfactory or better for the prior two-year period as determined by the Library Director. Other Job Requirements or Expectations Requires working some split shifts and on evenings, weekends, and holidays Working Conditions & Physical Requirements Working Conditions: Indoors, in a library Specific Physical Requirements: Frequent stooping, bending, reaching, and stretching when performing work such as rearranging furniture or putting away library books and other materials Lifting boxes weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without assistance of proper equipment or the help from another Pushing fully loaded book trucks which weigh up to 50 pounds but can weigh more Standing or sitting at a workstation majority of shift General Physical Requirements: Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities which permits the employee to communicate effectively Sufficient vision and powers of observation which permits the employee to review a wide variety of written documents, fulfill patron requests, and related material in both electronic and hardcopy form and to ensure the safety and security of the library and its patrons Sufficient manual dexterity and strength which permits the employee to operate a keyboard and produce hand-written materials and notations and move books, materials, and other library equipment Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes which permits the employee to perform the duties associated with retrieving and reshelving library books and materials Please reach out to the City and Borough of Sitka Human Resources Office at the below information if you have any questions or concerns.