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Public Library Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Public Library Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do public library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for public library assistant in Reston, VA is $19.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $22.02 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 Reston, VA? For Public Library Assistant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Library Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Public Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Public Library Assistant job openings:
Public Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Library Assistant job openings in Reston, VA 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 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,427 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Digital Products Librarian

Digital Products Librarian

Library Systems & Services LLC

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
LAC Federal is seeking a Librarian to support a library focused on military and engineering history by managing and enhancing access to historical collections. This role supports a multidisciplinary federal environment that integrates library science, archival processing, and digital collections management. The selected candidate will perform cataloging, metadata creation, and collection analysis for print and digital historical materials, enabling discoverability and long-term preservation of United States military history. This position requires strong attention to detail, knowledge of metadata standards, and the ability to work within structured federal workflows. Some travel may be required to locations in Maryland, Washington, DC., Virginia, and Missouri.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform original and copy cataloging for monographs, reports, and historical publications
  • Create, edit, and maintain metadata for digital and digitized collections
  • Apply metadata standards (e.g., MARC21, Dublin Core) to ensure consistency and interoperability
  • Support accessioning and organization of historical library and research collections
  • Conduct collection analysis, including relevance assessment and weeding recommendations
  • Collaborate with archivists and historians to align cataloging with archival description practices
  • Ensure compliance with federal and institutional cataloging standards and best practices
  • Support digitization workflows by preparing and validating metadata for ingestion into digital repositories
  • Perform quality control reviews of catalog records and metadata outputs
  • Assist with development and refinement of controlled vocabularies and subject headings
  • Provide documentation and reporting on cataloging activities and collection status
  • Coordinate with project leadership to support multiple concurrent task orders and deadlines

Requirements
  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS/MLS) from an ALA-accredited institution
  • Minimum 2 years of experience in cataloging and metadata creation in a variety of formats, including monographs, audio and visual formats, maps, manuscripts, rare books, etc.
  • Minimum 1 one year's experience with development and/or maintenance of metadata files and the ability to identify errors in metadata
  • Demonstrated experience with MARC21 and standard library cataloging practices
  • Experience applying metadata schemas such as Dublin Core or MODS
  • Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS) or library services platforms (EOS.Web preferred)
  • Experience working with digital collections and/or digitization workflows
  • Knowledge of controlled vocabularies (e.g., LCSH, LCNAF)
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to perform quality control on metadata records
  • Ability to work on-site in the Washington, DC metro area
  • U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a Public Trust clearance
  • Be able to lift materials weighing up to 20 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting federal libraries, archives, or cultural heritage organizations
  • Familiarity with archival standards (e.g., DACS, EAD) and hybrid library/archives environments
  • Knowledge of digitization standards and digital preservation concepts
  • Experience working with historical, government, or military collections
  • Familiarity with linked data concepts or emerging metadata frameworks
  • Experience contributing to or managing digital repositories or content management systems
  • Strong written communication skills, including documentation and reporting
  • Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team (librarians, archivists, historians)
  • Experience supporting federal contract environments or task order-based work

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing detailed cataloging, metadata entry, and computer-based work
  • Ability to lift, carry, and move library materials (e.g., books, archival boxes) up to approximately 25 pounds and handle physical collections as needed
  • Ability to travel occasionally and move between office, library, and archival environments, including accessing shelving and storage areas requiring bending, reaching, or light climbing

Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development

EEO Statement
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.

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