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Public Library Assistant Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

City of Ottawa

Mobile Services Assistant

Ottawa, ON

CA$32.08 - CA$37.54/hr

Ottawa Public Library Service: Branch Operations Employment Type: Up to 4 Casual Positions Work Hours: No Fixed Hours Various Shifts: Days, Evenings, Weekends Affiliation: CUPE 503 - Library/Casual ...

Town of Oakville

What you'll do As an Executive Assistant you will: Support activities for the OPL executive ... Oakville Public Library strives to fulfill our mission of cultivating discovery and creativity in ...

Kenora

Student Library Page

Kenora, ON · On-site

CA$16.60/hr

... the public in an orderly, accessible manner and contribute to a high level of library service to all residents. Lastly, you will assist with various stages of library programming and materials ...

Voyago

Huron Shores Sarnia - Lead Hand

Sarnia, ON · On-site

CA$20.05/hr

Properly use, maintain, and store all cleaning supplies and equipment * Assist with basic ... Administrative duties are performed at home or at the public library. A Laptop and cell phone will ...

Voyago

Huron Shores Sarnia - Lead Hand

Sarnia, ON · On-site

CA$20.05/hr

Properly use, maintain, and store all cleaning supplies and equipment * Assist with basic ... Administrative duties are performed at home or at the public library. A Laptop and cell phone will ...

Uottawa

Research Assistant

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$32.84 - CA$51.75/hr

Applicants must hold a Master's degree in Social Work, have a strong knowledge of library resources ... public health guidelines and the recommendations of experts.

Proton

Senior Foundation Engineer (Drive)

London, ON

... Public Sharing, and Docs. * Impact Opportunities: * Foundation work touches every aspect of Drive ... Create and maintain thorough documentation for core libraries to assist other developers in ...

49 Solutions

Bid Writer

Ottawa, ON · Hybrid

Requirements Responsibilities and Duties: Assist in supporting the Business Services team with ... libraries, templates, and standard responses Manage multiple deadlines and priorities in a fast ...

49 Solutions

Bid Writer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

Requirements Responsibilities and Duties: · Assist in supporting the Business Services team with ... libraries, templates, and standard responses · Manage multiple deadlines and priorities in a fast ...

Paramount

Marketing Manager

Toronto, ON

CA$45/hr

Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Creative, Social, PR, Performance Marketing ... Paramount+ features an expansive library of original series, hit shows and popular movies across ...

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All JobsPublic Library JobsPublic Library Assistant JobsPublic Library Assistant Jobs in Ontario

Public Library Assistant information

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How much do public library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for public library assistant in Ontario is $20.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $24.28 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 Ontario?

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

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

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

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

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

Public Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library Assistant job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,513 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Children's Programs & Public Service Assistant

City of Ottawa

Ottawa, ON • On-site

CA$35.06 - CA$41.02/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 hours ago

Posted today

Job description

Requisition ID: 23437

Department: Ottawa Public Library 

Service: Branch Operations 

Employment Type: 1 Permanent Full Time Position 

Work Hours: 28 hours per week

Affiliation: CUPE 503 - Library/Full Time - Public Service Job 

Salary Information: $35.060  - $41.020  per hour (2026 rates of pay)

Location: Ruth E. Dickinson Branch, 100 Malvern Drive

City: Ottawa, ON 

Job Category: Ottawa Public Library

Application Close: 01/09/2026 

JOB SUMMARY

Ottawa Public Library (OPL) provides accessible, innovative library and information services throughout the City of Ottawa, that meet the unique needs of diverse communities, delivered through a range of vehicles and reflecting a citizen-centred approach. The Public Service units are responsible for the customer-centric public library activities, programs and services offered by the Library's 33 branches, mobile and digital services, to meet the needs in their catchment area.

You provide information, reference and readers advisory services; develop, implement and conduct children's programs; provide circulation and page services in the Library and/or the community and/or mini-libraries, nursing homes and other locations; and perform routine collection maintenance duties.

You may be the senior person in charge or exercise responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the library branch.

Work is performed within the context of the policies and framework of the Library corporate culture as embodied in the Mission Statement, Core Values, Customer Experience Guidelines and the Canadian Federation of Library Association position statements on Intellectual Freedom and Diversity and Inclusion, with particular emphasis on providing customer service excellence.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of 2-year college diploma in Library and Information Technician, Early Childhood Education, or related field.

Minimum of 1 year of related experience working with children's programs.

KNOWLEDGE
  • Adult/children's literature in a variety of formats, readers' advisory services, trends in reading, literacy and ESL collections and adult programming.
  • Trends and techniques for developing effective library programming for children.
  • Reference resources in print, microform and electronic formats and of current developments in reference services.
  • Electronic database and other bibliographic searching techniques.
  • Principles of collection development and maintenance.
  • Methods and techniques for sorting and shelving library materials according to alphabetical, Dewey Decimal or other prescribed sequence and procedures.
  • Library circulation procedures and practices.
  • Methods and techniques of responding to inquiries and resolving patron complaints.
  • Desktop applications, intranet and internet and keyboarding procedures, to the extent where it may be required to demonstrate such usage to colleagues or library patrons.
  • General knowledge of library policies and procedures.
  • Knowledge of customer service techniques and protocols
  • Working knowledge of applicable occupational health and safety legislation.
  • General knowledge of Ottawa Public Library's policies and procedures related to health and safety.
COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • To deliver library programs to a range of users including pre-schoolers, school age and adults.
  • Use tact, discretion and confidentiality.
  • Excellent verbal communication skills.
  • Exercise effective judgement and independent decision-making capabilities.
  • Ability to design and create thematic displays.
  • Data entry, retrieval and keyboarding skills including use of standard office equipment and operation of an IBM compatible computer in Microsoft Windows.
  • To perform routine manual or clerical tasks and manoeuvre book carts and lift boxes up to 40 pounds.
  • Minimum keyboard skills of 25 wpm.
  • Perform multiple tasks concurrently.
  • Customer service orientation, including the use of tact, discretion and confidentiality
  • Attention to detail.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, ability to deal with the public and handle problems as they arise.
  • Flexibility, ability to adjust priorities.
  • Ability to work effectively as a team member.
  • Strongly committed to quality customer service.

 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

  • Language Requirement: Designated Day 1 Ready - immediate requirement for language proficiency: French: oral, reading, writing English: oral, reading, writing Candidates must meet language requirement for position upon hire.  
  • Police Record Check: The successful candidate will be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Check (Level 3) with the Police Services detachment in their jurisdiction to the Ottawa Public Library's satisfaction.; Note: Under the age of 18, requires a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters (Level 2) check in place of the Vulnerable Sector Check.; Police record checks completed by a third-party company will not be accepted.
  • Additional vacancies may occur during the competition process. 
  • Alternative educational credentials combined with job-related experience, demonstrated performance, and ability may be considered in lieu of stated academic requirements. 
  • Please save a copy of the job poster. Once the closing date has passed, it will no longer be available.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. 

The Ottawa Public Library promotes the principles of diversity and inclusion and adheres to the tenets of the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We encourage applications from women, Aboriginal peoples and persons of all races, ethnic origins, religions, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities and expressions. The Ottawa Public Library provides accommodation during all parts of the hiring process, upon request, to applicants with disabilities. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation. 

The Ottawa Public Library provides accommodation to applicants during all parts of the hiring process, upon request. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation.

Accessible formats and communication supports are available upon request. Please contact the Employee Service Centre at 613-580-2424 extension 12211 or via email at esc-cse@ottawa.ca.

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