1

Student Library Assistant Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Student Library Assistant information

See Reading, PA salary details

$6

$15

$23

How much do student library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for student library assistant in Reading, PA is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do I need to work as a student library assistant?

To work as a student library assistant, applicants typically need to be enrolled as students, demonstrate good organizational and communication skills, and sometimes complete a brief training or orientation. Some positions may require a minimum age or academic standing, and familiarity with library systems or tools like cataloging software can be helpful.

What qualifications do you need for a student library assistant?

A student library assistant typically needs to be a current student with good organizational and communication skills. Some positions may require basic computer literacy and the ability to work flexible hours, but specific qualifications vary by institution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a student library assistant?

To thrive as a Student Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic computer literacy, often complemented by enrollment in a college or university. Familiarity with library catalog systems, circulation software, and office productivity tools is typically necessary. Excellent customer service, communication, and time management skills help build rapport with patrons and manage multiple tasks efficiently. These competencies ensure smooth library operations, positive user experiences, and effective support for library staff and visitors.

What is the difference between Student Library Assistant vs Library Clerk?

AspectStudent Library AssistantLibrary Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing student statusHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentSchool or university libraries, part-timePublic or academic libraries, full-time or part-time
Employer & IndustryEducational institutionsPublic, academic, or special libraries
Common Search IntentEntry-level library support roles for studentsSupport staff in library operations

The main difference between a Student Library Assistant and a Library Clerk lies in their typical work environment and employment status. Student Library Assistants are usually students working part-time in school or university libraries, while Library Clerks are employed in various library settings, often with more formal responsibilities. Both roles require similar basic credentials, but their job scope and employer types differ.

Is it hard to become a student library assistant?

Becoming a student library assistant typically requires a minimum age, good organizational skills, and a willingness to perform tasks like shelving books and assisting visitors. Many positions are part-time and may not require prior experience, but strong communication skills and reliability are important. Competition varies by school or library, but the role is generally accessible to students who meet the basic requirements.

What is a student library assistant?

Student Library Assistants are students who work in campus libraries to support day-to-day library operations. They typically help with tasks such as checking out and shelving books, assisting patrons in finding materials, managing study spaces, and performing basic administrative duties. This role offers students an opportunity to gain work experience, improve organizational skills, and contribute to the campus community. The position often requires good communication skills, attention to detail, and reliability.

What are the common responsibilities of a student library assistant?

Student Library Assistants are usually responsible for tasks such as shelving books, checking materials in and out, assisting patrons with locating resources, and maintaining a quiet, organized environment. They may also help with processing new materials, setting up displays, or supporting library events. The role provides valuable customer service experience and often involves collaborating with librarians and other student staff, making teamwork and communication skills important.
What are popular job titles related to Student Library Assistant jobs in Reading, PA? For Student Library Assistant jobs in Reading, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Student Library Assistant jobs in Reading, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Student Library Assistant jobs in Reading, PA are:
What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Student Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Reading, PA with the most Student Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Student Library Assistant job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,098 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Libraries Specialist, Thun Library, Berks campus

Penn State University

Reading, PA • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 22 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Thun Library at Penn State Berks is looking for a Libraries Specialist to assist library patrons with advanced requests, serve as a resource for other part-time library employees, and navigate service interruptions. Applicants must commit to working 15 hours per week (during open library hours), including evenings and weekends, with core hours changing during breaks and summer to align with the academic year. This position is ideal for non-students, students with experience supervising or working independently in a customer service setting, and current Student Library Assistants. All are encouraged to apply. No prior library experience is required; library training will be provided.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Welcome students, staff, faculty, and community members to the library

  • Check out/in books, equipment, and other library materials

  • Confirm study room reservations

  • Provide guidance on user accounts and library services

  • Follow library operation processes and procedures

  • May oversee library operations during opening or closing

  • Assist Student Library Assistants (SLAs) with service questions and override permissions

  • Address building concerns including, but not limited to, disruptive patron behavior or maintenance issues

  • Assist others with technology, referring to PSU IT when necessary

  • Answer general questions about the library and the Penn State Berks campus

  • Assist users and colleagues with advanced requests and support services

  • Refer in-depth questions to the library team and/or appropriate departments

  • Retrieve and shelve materials correctly in a 68,000+ item collection

  • Inform the library team of service concerns or suggestions

Looking for these qualifications:
  • Customer service experience
  • Non-students, students with experience supervising or working independently in a customer service setting, and current Student Library Assistants

  • Ability to clearly communicate through face-to-face and written communication

  • All members of the University Libraries community are responsible for, and expected to, exemplify and promote civility by following the University Libraries Civility Statement and Guidelines.

What We Can Offer:
  • A supportive team to assist, train, and mentor you

  • Reasonable accommodations

  • Opportunities to work with Thun team members on special projects

  • A starting rate of $15.00 per hour

To apply for this position, please submit:
  • Cover letter explaining why this opportunity is an ideal position for you

  • Resume

  • Morning, evening, and weekend availability during open hours (M-F 8:30am - 9pm and Sunday 2pm - 6pm)

Applications will be reviewed beginning August 3, and interviews will be conducted through the end of September. If you have any questions, please contact Melissa Millar, Library Services Manager, at muf107@psu.edu.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster
PA State Labor Law Poster
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information
Hotlines

What Penn State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom