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Summer Library Assistant Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Library Specialist

Lexington, KY · On-site

$17.76 - $28.43/hr

Hours vary during the summer session and breaks depending on the operational hours of the library ... Supervise, train, and support student employees while assigning and monitoring daily work * Assist ...

They hold 3 book sales throughout the year (January, May, October) and assist library staff with ... summer) * Lead a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grader in weekly 45-minute sessions including reading aloud to ...

$120 - $170/hr

... in summer 2022. The remodel of the ICU now houses a brand-new CT (64 slice). The hospital also ... Regional Social Workers to assist with stress management, mental health awareness, compassion ...

Summer Library Assistant information

What is a summer library assistant?

Summer Library Assistants are temporary staff members who help support library operations during the busy summer months. They typically assist with tasks such as shelving books, helping patrons locate materials, organizing summer reading programs, and maintaining a welcoming environment. This role is ideal for students or individuals interested in gaining experience in library services. Summer Library Assistants work under the supervision of librarians and may also help with clerical duties or special events.

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

To thrive as a Summer Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic literacy or library-related knowledge, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library catalog systems, circulation software, and digital resources is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and teamwork abilities help you assist patrons and support library staff effectively. These skills ensure smooth daily operations, positive patron experiences, and efficient resource management during the busy summer period.

What are some typical challenges a summer library assistant might face when working with patrons during busy periods?

Summer Library Assistants often experience increased patron traffic due to summer reading programs and school breaks, which can result in long lines and higher demand for assistance. Managing multiple requests at once—such as checking out materials, answering inquiries, and helping with public computers—requires strong multitasking and customer service skills. Staying organized, remaining patient, and communicating clearly with both patrons and team members are key strategies for handling these busy times effectively.

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

AspectSummer Library AssistantLibrary Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer related courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent; no special certifications typically required
Work EnvironmentPublic library, often seasonal, assisting with summer programs and patron supportPublic or academic library, handling daily patron interactions and administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageSeasonal role mainly during summer months in public librariesYear-round position in libraries, including public, academic, and special libraries
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding seasonal library roles and responsibilitiesLooking for ongoing library support roles

The Summer Library Assistant typically works seasonally during summer, focusing on assisting with programs and patron services, while the Library Clerk is a year-round position handling daily administrative and customer service tasks. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ mainly in duration and scope of work.

How hard is it to be a summer library assistant?

Being a summer library assistant typically involves tasks such as shelving books, assisting patrons, and managing checkouts, which require attention to detail and good communication skills. The job often has a flexible schedule and may require basic computer skills or familiarity with library systems, but it generally is not physically demanding or highly complex.

How to become a summer library assistant with no experience?

To become a summer library assistant with no experience, focus on demonstrating enthusiasm for books and community service, and highlight any relevant skills such as organization or customer service. Many libraries offer on-the-job training, so applying with a simple resume and a positive attitude can increase your chances. Some positions may require a minimum age or a background check, so check local library requirements.

What qualifications do you need for a summer library assistant?

A summer library assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong communication skills, basic computer literacy, and a positive attitude are important; some positions may require previous customer service experience or familiarity with library systems. Additional certifications are generally not required but can be beneficial.

What are popular job titles related to Summer Library Assistant jobs in Kentucky?

For Summer Library Assistant jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Summer Library Assistant jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Summer Library Assistant jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Summer Library Assistant jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Summer Library Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Summer Library Assistant job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Library Specialist

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY • On-site

$17.76 - $28.43/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


University Of Kentucky rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 134 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

335th of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Job Title Library Specialist Requisition Number RE55473 Working Title Second Shift Supervisor/Evenings & Weekends Department Name 88000:LIBRARY ADMINISTRATION Work Location Lexington, KY Grade Level 42 Salary Range $17.76-28.43/hour Type of Position Staff Position Time Status Full-Time Required Education

BS

Click here for more information about equivalencies: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies Required Related Experience

2 yrs

Required License/Registration/Certification
None
Physical Requirements
Ability to push book trucks weighing up to 50lbs; sit for long periods of time; ability to use a kick stool to reach higher shelves and to squat down to reach lowest shelves in the book stacks.
Shift
Tuesday-Thursday from 3:00 pm-11:00 pm and Friday/Saturday 12:00 pm-8:00 pm during the Fall and Spring semester. Hours vary during the summer session and breaks depending on the operational hours of the library; Total hours per week =37.5.
Job Summary
Help Deliver Outstanding Library Services During Evenings and Weekends
The University of Kentucky Libraries is seeking a Library Specialist to serve as the Second Shift Supervisor/Evenings & Weekends at William T. Young Library.
This role provides operational oversight for evening library services, ensuring students, faculty, and visitors receive exceptional customer service and access to library resources. The successful candidate will supervise student employees, help manage building operations, support circulation services, and serve as a key point of contact during evening and weekend hours.
What You'll Do
  •  Provide operational oversight for circulation services and library activities during evening shifts
  •  Supervise, train, and support student employees while assigning and monitoring daily work
  •  Assist patrons with circulation transactions, account questions, and access to library resources using Alma/Primo
  •  Serve as a primary contact for building operations, security, and facilities-related concerns during second shift
  •  Coordinate circulation workflows, material transfers, collection maintenance, and Book Express services
  •  Manage study room reservations and support effective use of library spaces
  •  Monitor library conditions, address patron concerns, and respond appropriately to building or safety issues
  •  Assist with development and maintenance of circulation procedures, documentation, and training resources

What You'll Bring
  •  Strong customer service and interpersonal skills
  •  Experience supervising, training, or coordinating the work of others
  •  Ability to make sound decisions and remain calm in dynamic situations
  •  Strong organizational and time-management skills
  •  Attention to detail and commitment to accurate recordkeeping
  •  Ability to work independently while supporting a collaborative team environment
  •  Experience with library systems, circulation operations, or customer-facing service environments is helpful

Minimum Requirements
  •  Bachelor's degree
  •  2 years of related experience

What's In It for You
  •  Meaningful impact: Support students and researchers by helping maintain access to vital library resources and services
  •  Leadership opportunity: Supervise student employees and contribute to daily library operations
  •  Dynamic environment: Engage in customer service, facilities support, circulation management, and project coordination
  •  Professional growth: Build expertise in academic library operations and public service management
  •  Collaborative environment: Work alongside library professionals committed to student and faculty success
  • UK's Exceptional Benefits

Why Now?
Libraries continue to serve as essential academic hubs, providing access to resources, study spaces, technology, and support services beyond traditional business hours. Evening and weekend operations play a critical role in meeting the needs of students and faculty when demand for library services is often at its highest.
In this role, you'll help create a welcoming, safe, and well-organized environment while ensuring library services remain responsive and accessible to the university community.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
MS Office, Excel, Teams, Library Management System (Alma),
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience
Prefer bachelor's degree plus two years of experience in an academic research library.
Deadline to Apply 08/25/2026 Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865