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Substitute Library Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Substitute Librarian

Livonia, MI · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

A Substitute Librarian may be required to supervise a small staff of clerical and paraprofessional ... General reference desk duties. * Assist patrons in the use of the library. * Assist patrons using ...

Library Assistant Performs intermediate skilled human support providing assistance with daily duties at a branch library in a substitute capacity. Duties include general library customer service ...

Library Assistant Serve as instructional resource and materials specialist to principals, teachers ... Each year of experience in excess of the required three years may be substituted for thirty ...

Library Assistant Wage/Hour Status: Nonexempt Pay Group: P20 Salary Plan Primary Purpose: Serve as ... Each year of experience in excess of the required three years may be substituted for thirty ...

Showing results 21-40

Substitute Library Assistant information

See salary details

$22K

$64.1K

$93.5K

How much do substitute library assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for substitute library assistant in the United States is $64,055.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substitute library assistant?

Substitute Library Assistants are individuals who temporarily fill in for regular library staff when they are absent or when extra help is needed. Their responsibilities typically include checking books in and out, shelving materials, assisting patrons with finding resources, and maintaining library order. Substitute Library Assistants may work on an on-call basis and in various departments, adapting quickly to different library environments. This role is ideal for those who are flexible, customer-service oriented, and interested in supporting the daily operations of a library.

How does the role of a substitute library assistant differ from a regular library assistant?

As a Substitute Library Assistant, you may be called on short notice to fill in for regular staff, so adaptability and quick learning are essential. Your daily tasks will typically include checking materials in and out, assisting patrons with finding resources, and shelving books, but you may work in different branches or departments depending on immediate needs. Unlike regular assistants, you might not have a set schedule or long-term projects, so flexibility and the ability to quickly familiarize yourself with new systems and team members are important. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in various library settings and can be a stepping stone to a permanent position.

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

To thrive as a Substitute Library Assistant, you need a basic understanding of library procedures, strong organizational skills, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library management systems, cataloging software, and common office equipment is typically required. Excellent customer service, adaptability, and effective communication help you assist diverse patrons and manage changing tasks. These skills ensure smooth library operations, positive patron experiences, and the ability to step into various roles as needed.

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

AspectSubstitute Library AssistantLibrary Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer library experienceHigh school diploma; customer service experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic or school libraries; variable shifts; temporary or on-call basisPublic or school libraries; regular hours; administrative and customer service tasks
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries hiring temporary staff for coverageFull-time or part-time staff handling daily library operations
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding temporary vs permanent library rolesClarifying administrative vs support roles in libraries

The Substitute Library Assistant typically works on a temporary, on-call basis, providing coverage as needed, while a Library Clerk usually holds a more permanent, regular position with ongoing responsibilities. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ mainly in employment status and job stability.

Is there demand for substitute library assistants?

Substitute library assistants are in steady demand as libraries require flexible staffing to cover absences and peak times. Employment opportunities can vary based on library size and location, with some positions requiring basic customer service skills and familiarity with library systems. Overall, the role offers consistent opportunities in many public and academic libraries.

What cities are hiring for Substitute Library Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Substitute Library Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Substitute Library Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Substitute Library Assistant jobs include:

Infographic showing various Substitute Library Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,055 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

$17.99/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Title:Library Assistant
Position Type:Non-regular, (Substitute)
Hours: On-Call (Flexible to work evening and weekends)

Limited to69 hoursper month
Wage:$17.99 per hour
Bargaining Unit:Not represented
Benefits:WA State paid sick leave accruals only

Position Summary
Performs intermediate skilled human support providing assistance with daily duties at a branch library in a substitute capacity. Duties include general library customer service, assisting library patrons, issuing library cards, checking materials in and out, and related work as apparent or assigned. Work is performed under the supervision of the Branch Supervisor of the Branch, Branch Librarian and Area Manager.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Provides prompt, courteous support to internal and external customers.
  • Pulls, sorts and processes circulation materials and supplies, assesses materials for weeding, performs data entry for a variety of transactions into the appropriate system.
  • Pull, sorts, and processes circulation materials and supplies, assesses materials for weeding, performs data entry for a variety of transactions into the appropriate system.
  • Processes returned circulation materials, requests, and fills orders; receives payments, and answers reference questions.
  • Provides guidance with technological issues and assists patrons in the use of electronic equipment and databases.
  • Models professionalism for colleagues and promotes a positive organizational culture by word and example.
  • Organizes, arranges, and shelves materials as needed.
  • Assists in library opening and closing procedures.
  • Manages difficult patron situations in a calm, professional manner.
  • Promotes teamwork, collaboration, and inclusion.
  • Stays abreast of library policy and procedure.
  • Possesses knowledge and the ability to promote library advocacy and intellectual freedom.
  • Resolves patron complaints or challenges.
  • Issues library cards.
  • Prioritizes the learning of new technologies.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Customer Service Experience

Ability to

  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, patrons, and the general public.
  • Ability to exercise initiative and independent judgement and to work independently or as part of a team.
  • Ability to interact with a diverse population and establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and the public.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with staff and patrons.

Knowledge of

  • General knowledge of office procedures, equipment and record keeping.
  • General knowledge of library policies and
  • General knowledge of and interest in books and reader interest levels.
  • General knowledge of library circulation
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Strong comfort level with basic computer and technological

Work Environment & Physical Demands

  • Normally seated, standing or walking at will.
  • Normal physical activity including some bending, pushing, pulling, and lifting and carrying, which may range up to 45 lbs. upon occasion.
  • Keyboarding and working at a computer monitor for extended periods required.
  • Phone usage, reading, speaking, and listening.
  • Interaction with library system staff, library customers, other libraries, agencies and organizations, or vendors will be necessary to resolve situations or problems.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Special Requirements

  • Fluency in English and Spanish preferred.
  • Must pass and maintain a criminal background check.
  • Must sign up for direct deposit, if not already using direct deposit.
  • Must pass two NorthStar Digital Literacy assessments (print the completion certificate, candidates may take it more than once)https://www.digitalliteracyassessment.org/#take-assessment
    • Basic Communication Skills
    • Internet Basics

Equal Opportunity Employer:
NCW Librariesis an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and are committed to supporting diverse talent. We ensure all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or accommodation during the application process due to a disability, please contact us atHR@ncwlibraries.org.