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Temporary Library Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Santa Cruz, CA

Temporary Library Aide

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$18.70 - $22.73/hr

Temporary Job Number: 26-077 Department: Library Opening Date: 06/11/2026 Closing Date: 6/18/2026 5 ... May assist patrons with basic technology needs. * Assists with setup/take down of meeting rooms or ...

City of Santa Cruz

Temporary Library Aide

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$18.70 - $22.73/hr

Under supervision, Temporary Library Aides complete routine library tasks and provide clerical ... May assist patrons with basic technology needs. Assists with setup/take down of meeting rooms or ...

City of Norfolk, VA

Library Assistant II

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$21.01 - $35.20/hr

Intermittent Temporary Job Number: 14181 Department: Library Opening Date: 06/17/2026 Closing Date ... The Library Assistant II PT position assists with general library duties such as performing ...

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How much do temporary library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary library assistant in the United States is $16.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is AI replacing librarians?

AI is not replacing librarians, including those working as temporary library assistants. Instead, AI tools are used to support tasks like cataloging, data management, and information retrieval, allowing librarians to focus more on customer service and community engagement. Human skills such as critical thinking, interpersonal communication, and expertise in library resources remain essential in library roles.

Can you be a library assistant with no experience?

Yes, many library assistant positions are entry-level and do not require prior experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training and may look for basic organizational skills and a friendly attitude. Having familiarity with library systems or customer service can be helpful but is not always necessary for starting as a temporary library assistant.

What qualifications do you need for a library assistant?

A library assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong organizational skills, good communication, and familiarity with library systems or cataloging software are also important. Some positions may require basic computer skills and customer service experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Temporary Library Assistants and how can they be addressed?

Temporary Library Assistants often face challenges such as quickly adapting to different library systems, handling a high volume of patron inquiries, and managing shifting schedules. Familiarizing yourself with catalog software and library policies early on can help ease the transition. Building rapport with permanent staff and asking questions when unsure can also improve efficiency and confidence in your daily tasks. Flexibility and strong communication skills are key to thriving in this dynamic role.

What are Temporary Library Assistants?

Temporary Library Assistants are individuals hired on a short-term basis to support the daily operations of a library. Their duties often include checking materials in and out, shelving books, helping patrons locate resources, and maintaining the organization of library collections. These positions are typically filled to cover staff shortages, special projects, or busy periods. Temporary Library Assistants provide essential support to ensure the library continues to function smoothly and efficiently.

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

Yes, a library often employs various staff members such as library assistants, clerks, or technicians who do not need to be licensed librarians. These roles typically require skills like customer service, organization, and familiarity with library systems or cataloging tools, but do not require a master's degree in library science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Library Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Library Assistant, you generally need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library catalog systems, digital databases, and basic office software is important for managing materials and assisting patrons. Excellent customer service, communication, and adaptability help you support diverse library users and handle multiple tasks efficiently. These skills and qualities ensure smooth daily operations and a positive, resourceful environment for library visitors.
More about Temporary Library Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Temporary Library Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Library Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Temporary Library jobs? The most popular types of Temporary Library jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Library Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Library Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Library Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Library Assistant jobs are:
Temporary Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Library Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,107 per year, or $16.9 per hour.
Temporary Library Aide

Temporary Library Aide

City of Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz, CA • On-site

$18.70 - $22.73/hr

Temporary

Medical, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Salary: $18.70 - $22.73 Hourly
Location : City of Santa Cruz, CA
Job Type: Temporary
Job Number: 26-077
Department: Library
Opening Date: 06/11/2026
Closing Date: 6/18/2026 5:00 PM Pacific
The Position
The Santa Cruz Public Libraries is seeking Temporary Library Aides, welcoming a wide range of applicants of all ages and backgrounds including students, part-time workers, and retirees, who are interested in learning about library work and supporting daily library operations. Under supervision, Temporary Library Aides complete routine library tasks and provide clerical support. Work shifts may be assigned to any library branch.
The Santa Cruz Public Library System consists of 10 library branches and a Bookmobile. For more information on the Library including branch locations and hours, please visit
This temporary position is represented by the SEIU bargaining unit. Temporary positions are limited to a total of 999 hours per fiscal year (July 1 - June 30).
APPLICATION PROCESS:
To apply, submit:
  1. A completed online City application. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of filling out application form completely. Click the Apply button to begin the application process.
  2. Response to the supplemental questions. Failure to answer the supplemental questions will result in disqualification.

SELECTION PROCESS:
The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract. The City of Santa Cruz in an equal opportunity employer.
  • Applications will be screened based on the minimum qualifications for the Temporary Library Aide classification.
  • Library staff will review qualified applications when a vacancy occurs and will contact only those applicants being offered an interview. No other notification will be made. Applications are kept on file until the next open recruitment.
  • Prior to appointment, a pre-employment process must be successfully completed. The pre-employment process includes, but is not limited to, successfully completing a Department of Justice fingerprint check, filling out new hire paperwork, and attending a Human Resources appointment. New hires who are under the age of 18 at time of hire will be required to complete an "Intent to Employ a Minor and Request for a Work Permit" in accordance with the State of California Department of Education.

Temporary Library Aides must be available to work at all of the following locations:
Aptos Branch
7695 Soquel Drive
Aptos
Boulder Creek Branch
13390 West Park Avenue
Boulder Creek
Branciforte Branch
230 Gault Street
Santa Cruz
Capitola Branch
2005 Wharf Road
Capitola
Downtown Branch
224 Church Street
Santa Cruz
Felton Branch
6121 Gushee Street
Felton
Garfield Park Branch
705 Woodrow Avenue
Santa Cruz
La Selva Beach Branch
316 Estrella Avenue
La Selva Beach
Live Oak Branch
2380 Portola Drive
Santa Cruz
Scotts Valley Branch
251 Kings Village Road
Scotts Valley
Typical Duties
(May include, but are not limited to, those duties listed below.)
  • Sorts, shelves, relocates, and searches for library materials.
  • Prepares and packages books for shipment to other libraries.
  • Reads shelves for accuracy or order, re-shelving materials as needed.
  • Straightens and dusts library shelves daily or weekly as needed.
  • Provides simple directional information to patrons.
  • Performs simple circulation desk duties - e.g. checking in library materials.
  • Provides patrons with basic guidance in using Santa Cruz Public Library (SCPL) website, catalog, and multi-function printers.
  • May assist patrons with basic technology needs.
  • Assists with setup/take down of meeting rooms or program spaces for library programming.
  • May assist with programming on or off-site.
  • Assists with light housekeeping such as picking up books, basic tidying and straightening up.
  • May help staff open and close library branches.
  • Acts as reporting agents with respect to the Library's Code of Conduct and other safety matters.
  • Performs other related duties that may be reasonably expected as part of this classification.

WORKING CONDITIONS
The position requires frequent sitting, walking, standing, reaching, stooping, repetitive use of hands, and pushing in the performance of daily activities. Crouching, working overhead, grasping and twisting is required in the performance of weekly activities. Occasional climbing, kneeling, pulling, and finger dexterity is required. The position requires near and far vision and normal hearing in the performance of daily activities. The need to lift up to 35 pounds on a daily basis is required and with the need to lift up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis.
Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:
  • Completion of two years of high school. High school diploma or tested equivalent is not required.

Skills:
  • Competent in communication and interpersonal skills with adults and children
  • Read and speak English fluently
  • Basic numeracy with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
  • Computers and standard computer software including Microsoft Office programs
  • Familiarity with mobile devices

Abilities:
  • Discern when questions should be referred to the person in charge or the online librarian
  • Follow written and verbal instructions
  • Alphabetize and arrange books and other materials in an orderly fashion using standard library organizing structures
  • Interact in a respectful manner with the public and library staff

Other Requirements:
  • Depending on job assignment may be required to be age 18.

Licenses and Certificates
  • None required.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience using libraries
  • Experience using technology (computers, smart phones, social networking)
  • Experience working with the public
  • Basic knowledge of the Dewey decimal system
  • Fluency in Spanish, an Asian language or Sign language.

Career Ladder
  • Director of Libraries
  • Assistant Director of Libraries
  • Librarian III
  • Librarian II
  • Librarian I
  • Library Specialist
  • Library Assistant IV
  • Library Assistant III /Library Information Specialist
  • Library Assistant II /Bookmobile Library Assistant
  • Library Assistant I
  • Library Aide

The City of Santa Cruz offer benefits to temporary employees such as reimbursement up to $100 per quarter for a portion of health care costs (employee must work more than 220 hours in defined quarter) and discount bus pass program. Temporary service employees are eligible to participate in the CalPERS long term care insurance program.
Upon completion of 600 hours worked, employees receive 19 hours in-lieu time, and for every 200 hours of work thereafter, employees receive 9 hours of in-lieu time. In-Lieu time can be used for paid leave or paid in cash. The terms of listed benefits are subject to change, depending upon current MOU and future negotiations.
See
01
This position requires the completion of two years of high school. I meet this requirement:
  • Yes
  • No

02
Depending on job assignment, the candidate may be required to be at least 18 years old.
  • I am under the age of 18.
  • I am at least 18 years old.

03
I am available to work at all Branches (as listed on the job flyer and at https://www.santacruzpl.org/branches/) Note: A "No" response will eliminate your application from consideration.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Apply