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Public Library Assistant Jobs in Kettering, MD (NOW HIRING)

Archivist

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

... Agricultural Library. * Assist with quality control and metadata normalization to improve ... Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays) * Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity) * Short Term ...

Archivist

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

... Agricultural Library. * Assist with quality control and metadata normalization to improve ... Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays) * Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity) * Short Term ...

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Public Library Assistant information

See Kettering, MD salary details

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How much do public library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for public library assistant in Kettering, MD is $19.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.49 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 would you do as a public library assistant?

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

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 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 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 cities near Kettering, MD are hiring for Public Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Kettering, MD with the most Public Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Public Library Assistant job openings in Kettering, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,512 per year, or $19 per hour.

Community Circulation Manager (Library Assistant III)

Fairfax County Government

Falls Church, VA • On-site

$55K - $76K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Fairfax County rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

344th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Announcement

Manages the operations of the circulation department of a community library and serves as person-in-charge as needed. Serves on branch management team. Responds to the needs of library customers and resolves customer issues. Performs all essential circulation and support duties. Performs other duties as may be assigned to further the goals and objectives of Fairfax County Public Library.
Fairfax County Public Library supports the goals of One Fairfax, fostering equity and opportunity in the delivery of programs and services.
Notes: This job announcement may be used to fill future Community Circulation Manager (Library Assistant III) vacancies.

  • Location: Culmore Library is closed for renovations with an anticipated reopening in January 2027. The position will temporarily report to Tysons-Pimmit Regional library located at Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA, 22043 during the branch closure.
  • Salary: The selected applicant's starting salary will be in the minimum to midpoint range ($55,417.02 to $76,198.51) of the advertised compensation range. Compensation rules apply per Fairfax County personnel regulations for current Fairfax County Government and Fairfax County Public Schools employees.
  • Schedule: Scheduling flexibility is imperative. Standard hours may include day and/or evening hours to include weekdays and weekends.

To learn more about a career with Fairfax County Public Library, watch our video "Library Staff Share Why They Love Working at the Library"
Illustrative Duties

(The illustrative duties listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list. A complete list ofposition duties and unique physical requirements can be found in the position job description.)
Manages the circulation department of a small or mid-size library (community library);
Supervises the page manager of a small or mid-size library (community library);
Communicates and implements circulation policies and procedures at a small or mid-size library (community library);
Assigns circulation support tasks;
Identifies and implements departmental development and training needs;
Resolves complex circulation problems and clients' account issues, such as outstanding books and fines referred from other staff;
Develops agendas and conducts monthly circulation department staff meetings;
Serves as liaison with Facilities Coordinator and county facility departments;
Prepares daily and biweekly circulation or page schedules, ensuring efficient branch coverage;
Interviews, selects, trains and evaluates the performance of subordinates and volunteers;
Performs all general public service circulation duties and support tasks;
Serves as a member of the Branch Management Team;
May serve as branch Person-In-Charge;
May assist with outreach and other library programs.

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities

(The knowledge, skills and abilities listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list.)
Thorough knowledge of library duties, policies and procedures;
Mastery in operating a library's automated circulation system;
Ability to lead and supervise a large team;
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously;
Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with others;
Ability to exercise tact, good judgment and initiative;
Ability to deal with stressful situations and difficult customers;
Knowledge of library policies and procedures;
Ability to work independently within established policies, procedures, and guidelines;
Ability to evaluate procedures and recommend improvements;
Ability to analyze problems and recommend solutions;
Ability to supervise and coordinate the work of others;
Ability to effectively train others;
Ability to learn and independently use office equipment, including software suites and
specialized databases;
Knowledge of word processing and computer applications;
Ability to adapt to workplace change;
Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing;
Knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation;
Ability to sort alphabetically and numerically;
Ability to perform basic arithmetic.

Employment Standards
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the following:
(Click on the aforementioned link to learn how Fairfax County interprets equivalencies for "Any combination, experience, and training equivalent to")
Completion of an associate degree or two years (60 semester hours) of course work at an accredited college or university; plus, three years of full-time library experience or the equivalent amount of part-time library experience, including two years performing duties comparable to Library Assistant I or one year comparable to a Library Assistant II.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:
The appointee to the position will be required to complete a criminal background check and Child Protective Services Registry check to the satisfaction of the employer.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Four or more years of experience working in a library setting with three or more years of supervisory experience to include training, coaching, evaluating, scheduling or directing the day-to-day activities of staff.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to lift up to 15 pounds. Ability to input, access, and retrieve information from a computer. Ability to perform repetitive hand, arm, wrist and shoulder movements. Ability to stand for 2 hours at a time. Ability to shelve materials at all height levels. Ability to stoop, bend, reach, squat, and kneel. Ability to push and pull 4-wheeled book bins filled at 90% capacity, requiring 20 pounds of initial (starting) force, and a sustained force of 10 pounds after initial acceleration. Ability to push and pull 4-wheeled book carts filled at 70% capacity, requiring 14 pounds of initial (starting) force, and a sustained force of 7 pounds after initial acceleration. All duties performed with or without reasonable accommodations.
SELECTION PROCEDURE:
Panel interview and may include exercise.
Fairfax County is home to a highly diverse population, with a significant number of residents speaking languages other than English at home (including Spanish, Asian/Pacific Islander, Indo-European, and many others.) We encourage candidates who are bilingual in English and another language to apply for this opportunity.
Fairfax County Government prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.
Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. TTY 703-222-7314. DHREmployment@fairfaxcounty.gov EEO/AA/TTY.
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