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Substitute Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Livonia

Substitute Librarian

Livonia, MI

$20 - $22/hr

A Substitute Librarian may be required to supervise a small staff of clerical and paraprofessional employees. Illustrative Examples of Work: General office work Readers' advisory service Use of audio ...

City of Livonia, MI

Substitute Librarian

Livonia, MI · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

A Substitute Librarian may be required to supervise a small staff of clerical and paraprofessional employees. Illustrative Examples of Work: * General office work * Readers' advisory service * Use of ...

Cromaine Library

Substitute Librarian

Hartland, MI

Adult Services Manager and/or Youth Services Manager JOB SUMMARY: Part time substitute position. Provides services to patrons of all ages; helps patrons to use the library effectively. Morning ...

Cromaine Library

Substitute Librarian

Hartland, MI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Adult Services Manager and/or Youth Services Manager JOB SUMMARY: Part time substitute position. Provides services to patrons of all ages; helps patrons to use the library effectively. Morning ...

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Substitute Librarian information

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$16

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How much do substitute librarian jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for substitute librarian in the United States is $16.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you get a job in a library without being a librarian?

Yes, library support roles such as library assistants or clerks do not require a librarian certification and often involve tasks like shelving, checking out materials, and assisting patrons. These positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and may involve training on library systems and customer service skills.

What is a Substitute Librarian job?

A Substitute Librarian fills in for regular library staff on an as-needed basis, ensuring continuity of library services. They assist patrons, manage circulation tasks, provide reference support, and maintain an organized library environment. Responsibilities may vary depending on the library's needs, but flexibility and strong customer service skills are essential.

Is AI going to replace librarians?

AI is unlikely to replace substitute librarians entirely, as their role involves managing collections, assisting patrons, and providing personalized service that requires human judgment and interpersonal skills. AI tools can support librarians by automating tasks like cataloging and information retrieval, but the human element remains essential for community engagement and complex problem-solving. Librarians' expertise and adaptability ensure they continue to play a vital role in information access and education.

What is a substitute librarian?

A substitute librarian is a library professional who temporarily fills in for regular librarians when they are absent, often working on a part-time or as-needed basis. They perform tasks such as assisting patrons, managing collections, and supporting library programs, typically requiring knowledge of library systems and customer service skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Substitute Librarian position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substitute Librarian, you should have knowledge of library organization, cataloging, and circulation procedures, often supported by a degree in library science or relevant work experience. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), library databases, and digital cataloging tools is valuable. Strong soft skills such as adaptability, communication, and customer service enhance your ability to support patrons and collaborate with library staff. These competencies are crucial for maintaining smooth library operations and ensuring a positive experience for visitors when filling in for permanent staff.

What are some typical challenges Substitute Librarians may face on the job?

Substitute Librarians often encounter the challenge of quickly adapting to different library settings, procedures, and software systems, as each library may have unique workflows and community needs. They may also need to assist patrons with a wide range of requests, from research help to troubleshooting technology, often with limited prior exposure to the specific collection or environment. Building rapport with both library staff and patrons in a short timeframe requires strong interpersonal skills. This dynamic role offers the opportunity to develop versatility and resilience, which can be valuable for long-term career growth in the library field.

What other jobs can librarians get?

Librarians can transition into roles such as library directors, archivists, information specialists, research analysts, or education coordinators. They often utilize skills in research, organization, and information management, and may require additional certifications or advanced degrees for certain positions.
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Substitute Librarian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substitute Librarian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,721 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Substitute Librarian

Substitute Librarian

Toledo Lucas County Public Library

Toledo, OH • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Substitute Librarian I/II

The Substitute Librarian I or II is a casual position with work hours scheduled as needed by the Library system based on each substitute librarian's availability. Work shifts may be full or partial. Availability on weekdays (Mon-Thurs, 9:00 am-12:30 pm or 5:00 pm-8:30 pm) and on Fridays or Saturdays (9:00 am-5:30 pm) is desirable.

Hourly Wage Rate:
Librarian I - $ 20.00 hourly
Librarian II - $23.00 hourly
Position Summary
Performs a full range of professional librarian tasks and related duties as required.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Serves as a professional librarian for patrons served by the agency and works cooperatively as a team member with professional and support staff in applying the full range of principles and practices of library science.
  • Conducts required searches, answers reference questions, and provides information and guidance to patrons.
  • Interprets library tools according to established policies and procedures and performs reader’s advisory.
  • May assist in developing reporting systems, and compiles and maintains reference and statistical data.
  • Keeps informed of current professional trends and participates in professional organizations.
  • Assists in children’s and teen services functions and duties.
  • Performs related duties as assigned for the efficient operation of the Branch and the Library.
  • Actively supports diversity, equity, and inclusion; promotes a culture where all staff and customers belong.
Knowledge, Skills, and Training
  • Knowledge of professional library principles, methods, and procedures.
  • Knowledge of general print and non-print reference sources.
  • Knowledge of children’s and teen literature and programming techniques.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates.
  • Ability to relate to patrons of all ages and from diverse socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds.
  • Ability to promote the use of library facilities and services and to speak publicly with enthusiasm and friendliness.
Minimum Qualifications
1. Librarian I – BA/BS degree in an appropriate field of study.
2. Librarian II - MLS from an ALA-accredited library school.
3. Experience working with teens, children, puppetry skills, and storytelling. (preferred)
4. Working knowledge of PC’s and electronic resources required.
5. Valid driver's license; must be insured and meet Ohio’s minimum coverage requirement for auto insurance.
6. Must meet insurance eligibility requirements of the Library’s insurance carrier under the Library’s Motor Vehicle Use Policy.
Working Conditions and Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the major responsibilities of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform major functions.
  1. Frequent off-site travel is required within the county.
  2. Evening/weekend hours are/may be part of the regular schedule.
  3. Frequent standing, walking, and sitting. Frequent reaching, feeling, and use of vision associated with computer use and handling of library materials. Frequent reaching, stooping, bending, and crouching. Lifting and handling of objects weighing up to 50 pounds and pushing/pulling of loaded book trucks.
BCI/FBI Criminal Background Record Clearance and MVR history required.
A drug screen/medical examination to be completed prior to start date.

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