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Public Library Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Umd

Late Night Specialist

College Park, MD

$48K - $57K/yr

Experience working in an academic or public library. Experience with Alma or other integrated ... Ability to assist other library staff in selecting and evaluating technology used in libraries.

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All JobsPublic Library JobsPublic Library Assistant JobsPublic Library Assistant Jobs in Washington

Public Library Assistant information

See Washington salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do public library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for public library assistant in Washington is $21.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.94 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 popular job titles related to Public Library Assistant jobs in Washington? For Public Library Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Library Assistant jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library Assistant jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Public Library Assistant jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Public Library Assistant job openings:
Public Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library Assistant job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,011 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

T26-27 - LIBRARY MEDIA SPEC (Candidate Pool)

Arlington Public Schools

Arlington, VA

$52K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Posted to create a candidate pool for the 2026-27 School Year.

Qualifications: 

  • Must have or be eligible for Virginia licensure. 
  • Library Media endorsement.
  • Masters in Library Science or minimum of 24 semester hours in school library media preparation. 
  • Dual endorsement in English as a Second Language and/or Special Education, or in any other content area, is preferred but not required.

Experience:

  • Ability to interact with students, teachers and administrators in a positive, collaborative manner. 
  • High familiarity with and use of emergent technologies in the field of Library Science and Instruction. 
  • Demonstrate a commitment to professional development through membership in professional organizations, enrolling in continuing education courses, attending conferences and training workshops and working with counterparts and colleagues.

Responsibilities:  

  • Provides instruction in locating, analyzing, and effectively using information resources for all curriculum needs. 
  • Collaborates and partners with teaching staff to deliver ongoing instruction in the acquisition of information literacy skills, tied to APS curriculum.
  • Encourages students and teachers to maximize the use of information in various formats, including electronic as well as print, and promotes the ethical use of information technology. 
  • Selects and evaluates resources which provide a wide variety of materials to meet the interests and learning needs of the entire school community.
  • Customizes instruction to serve diverse learning populations through varying instructional activities, integrating appropriate technology and promoting models of information acquisition and use. 
  • Integrates fiction and nonfiction works into lesson design, is knowledgeable about children's and young adult literature, and motivates students to appreciate reading as a lifelong activity.
  • Provides orientation and training to all students and staff concerning library services and resources, including the use of all features of the APS OPAC, known as the Arlington County Online Resource Network (ACORN). 
  • Serves as the Interlibrary Loan contact for the building and is a primary contact for instruction and access to various technologies, including video, audio and online resources. 
  • Administers library program functions such as scheduling, budget, supplies, reports, and ongoing collection development. Maintains, manages, organizes and supervises the library collection, including the acquisition and withdrawal of materials as necessary. 
  • Supervises and trains library assistants/secretaries, students and volunteers who work in the library. 
  • Promotes and publicizes the use of the library as an environment for learning and enjoyment, including regular communication with the greater school community regarding library activities and programs. 
  • As a school faculty member, actively participates in school committees, partners in school and community events, and serves as an advocate of the school and public library programs. 
  • Arranges library programming such as Family Literacy Nights and Author visits to embed reading for choice and literacy into the school program as a whole.
  • Contributes to the planning of library construction and renovation.

Salary: 

  • Salary will be based on the FY2026-27 salary schedule.
Arlington Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer
 
It is the policy of the Arlington School Board, as stated in Policy G-2.30, Employee Relations - Equal Employment Opportunity - that "Employment opportunities shall not be restricted, abridged or otherwise adversely affected on the basis of race, national origin, creed, color, religion, gender, age, economic status, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, genetic information, gender identity or expression, and/or disability.

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