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Public Library Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Iowa State University

Library Assistant III

Ames, IA · On-site

Library Assistant III Job Group:Merit Required Minimum Qualifications: Three years of library work ... Public service preferred. * Experience in communicating and administering organizational policies ...

City of Grimes, IA

Part-Time Library Filer

Grimes, IA · On-site

$12/hr

Grimes Public Library Division: Library - Part-Time Opening Date: 07/20/2026 Closing Date: 8/19 ... Responsible for shelf reading stacks and addressing shelving situations. * Assist with opening and ...

Dubuque County

Library Clerk I

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$21.02/hr

... service. Assist patrons with computer, photocopier, and fax. Collect fines and fees. Answer ... Some knowledge of theory and objectives of a public library system. Ability to establish and ...

Dubuque County, IA

Library Clerk I

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$21.02/hr

Perform basic reference and readers' advisory service. * Assist patrons with computer, photocopier ... Some knowledge of theory and objectives of a public library system. * Ability to establish and ...

City of Cedar Rapids

Library Shelver

Cedar Rapids, IA

$17.05 - $18.77/hr

The City of Cedar Rapids Public Library is hiring a Library Shelver to help keep our materials ... In this role, you'll shelve books and other materials, maintain orderly collections, assist with ...

City of Norwalk, IA

Circulation Assistant

Norwalk, IA · On-site

$17.40/hr

Norwalk Easter Public Library, IA Job Type: Variable-Hour Part-Time Job Number: 00193 Department ... As a Substitute Circulation Assistant, you'll provide outstanding customer service at the front ...

City of Marion, Iowa

Food Pantry Volunteer

Marion, IA

$16 - $19.25/hr

Marion Public Library Bargaining Unit:Volunteer Reports to Position:Food Pantry Coordinator Pay ... ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED * Assist with receiving, sorting, and inspecting donated food ...

City of Marion

Food Pantry Volunteer

Marion, IA · On-site

Marion Public Library Bargaining Unit: Volunteer Reports to Position: Food Pantry Coordinator Pay ... ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED * Assist with receiving, sorting, and inspecting donated food ...

EICC

Library Technician II, part-time

Riverdale, IA

$16.25/hr

Supports library operations using the Integrated Library System (ILS) and Online Public Access ... May assist in supervising student workers or workstudy students. Helps maintain a welcoming ...

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All JobsPublic Library JobsPublic Library Assistant JobsPublic Library Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Public Library Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$17

$25

How much do public library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for public library assistant in Iowa is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a library assistant with no experience?

To become a library assistant with no experience, focus on developing strong communication and organizational skills, and consider volunteering or gaining related experience in customer service or administrative tasks. Many libraries offer on-the-job training, and having a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Certifications in library services or technology can also enhance your application.

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 qualifications are needed to work at a public library?

Public library assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require basic computer skills, customer service experience, and knowledge of library systems or cataloging. Additional certifications are usually not required but can be beneficial for advancement.

What qualifications do you need for a library assistant?

A library assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills are important, and familiarity with library systems or technology can be beneficial. Some positions may require prior experience or certification in library science or related fields.

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.

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Public Library jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Library Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Public Library Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Library Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Public Library Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Public Library Assistant job openings:
Public Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,499 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Public Library Assistant (part-time)

Public Library Assistant (part-time)

Cornell College

Mount Vernon, IA • Hybrid

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 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.