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Public Library Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Town of Sharon

Substitute Library Assistant

Sharon, MA · On-site

$24.80/hr

Substitute Library Assistant This is an on-call position with no regularly scheduled hours. The ... Candidates should have experience working with the public in a customer-service setting; library ...

Town Of Sharon

Substitute Library Assistant

Sharon, MA · On-site

$24.80/hr

The Substitute Library Assistant supports circulation services, including: * Checking items in and ... Candidates should have experience working with the public in a customer-service setting; library ...

Town of Sharon

Substitute Library Assistant

Sharon, MA

$24.80/hr

The Substitute Library Assistant supports circulation services, including: * Checking items in and ... Candidates should have experience working with the public in a customer-service setting; library ...

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All JobsPublic Library JobsPublic Library Assistant JobsPublic Library Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA

Public Library Assistant information

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How much do public library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for public library assistant in Boston, MA is $20.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $22.98 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 the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Public Library jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Library Assistant jobs in Boston, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Public Library Assistant jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Library Assistant jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Public Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Public Library Assistant job openings:

Public Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,214 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Library Assistant - Part Time

Town of Westwood

Westwood, MA

$29.45/hr

Full-time, Part-time

PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

LIBRARY ASSISTANT – PART-TIME BENEFIT ELIGIBLE

WESTWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Westwood Public Library is seeking an organized and community-focused Library Assistant to join a supportive and team-oriented staff. The successful candidate will be a collegial and energetic professional who thrives in a busy environment. The position will perform administrative and technical work in coordinating library materials while providing exceptional customer service for the Circulation, Information Services and Branch departments at both the Main Library and Islington Branch.

Duties include but are not limited to the following:

  • Ensures a positive library experience for patrons by providing service in a courteous, confidential, knowledgeable, and effective manner.
  • Acquires print and non-print materials through network procedures. Uses automated network acquisition software; obtains bibliographic records for some materials; monitors status of all orders and informs librarians of status.
  • Provides entry level administrative work and processing of new materials, including cataloging, affixing barcodes, spine labels and covering books.
  • Carries out circulation duties, including registering and processing library cards for patrons.
  • Frequently assists with automated returns and self-checkouts of materials; shelves returned items.
  • Assists patrons at Circulation Desk at both library locations and by phone with account questions and with reserving museums passes through an online reservation system.
  • Assists patrons at Information Desk with general inquires, technology usage including faxing and printing.
  • Provides general information and direction as needed to our patrons and resolves patron service concerns with courtesy and tact.
  • Provides 1:1 tech help to patrons as needed.

Schedule:

  • Tuesdays: Circulation 1:00 – 9:00 PM
  • Wednesdays: Information Services 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Thursdays: Branch Services 12:00 – 6:00 PM

The schedule will include one evening per week as well as a weekend rotation.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience: Associate degree; strong computer skills. Ability to provide effective and friendly service to all library users. Strong organizational talents essential. One to two years of experience in library automation procedures preferred. May include daily lifting and/or moving objects weighing up to 50 pounds such as books, equipment and supplies.

Salary and Benefits: This is a part-time, 20-hour per week position with a starting hourly rate of $29.45. The position includes a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave time, and other employee supports.

To Apply: Please submit cover letter and resume by September 8, 2026.

The Town of Westwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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