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Temporary Library Assistant Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Uottawa

CA$68K - CA$86K/yr

... and temporary assignments): 15 Job Family: Library and Archives # of Open Positions: 2 Faculty ... system, to assist users with problems. Explain to users the status of their files and provide ...

Uottawa

Intermediate Technician, User Engagement

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$68K - CA$86K/yr

... and temporary assignments): 15 Job Family: Library and Archives # of Open Positions: 2 Faculty ... system, to assist users with problems. Explain to users the status of their files and provide ...

City of Ottawa

Customer Service Assistant

Ottawa, ON

CA$32.08 - CA$37.54/hr

Ottawa Public Library Service: Branch Operations Employment Type: 1 Temporary Full Time Position-Up to 18 months Work Hours: 25 hours per week Affiliation: CUPE 503 - Library/Full Time - Public ...

New

Art Gallery of Ontario

Chief Curator

Toronto, ON

The AGO has retained Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, to assist in identifying ... including temporary, in-house, and travelling exhibitions, permanent collection presentations ...

City of Windsor

Adult Crossing Guard

Windsor, ON · On-site

Temporary Part-Time Job Code: CGA001 Grade/Class: N/A Number of Positions: To be determined Rate of ... To assist school children safely across city intersections going to and from school; * Obey all ...

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Temporary Library Assistant information

What is a temporary library assistant?

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.

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.

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.

Can I be a temporary library assistant with no experience?

Temporary library assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. However, having basic organizational skills, familiarity with library systems, or customer service experience can be beneficial. Employers may also look for a willingness to learn and good communication skills.

What qualifications do you need for a temporary library assistant?

A temporary library assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong organizational skills, good communication, and familiarity with library catalog systems or basic computer skills are often required. Some positions may prefer previous customer service experience or knowledge of library operations.

What are popular job titles related to Temporary Library Assistant jobs in Ontario?

For Temporary Library Assistant jobs in Ontario, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Temporary Library Assistant jobs in Ontario look for?

The top searched job categories for Temporary Library Assistant jobs in Ontario are:

Temporary Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Library Assistant job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Library Assistant - Access Services

Guelph, ON • On-site

University of Guelph
See more jobs at University of Guelphexternal

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Department: Library Learning and Curriculum Support
Position covered by the Collective Agreement with USW Local 4120

Temporary full-time from 09/18/2026 to 08/13/2027

Temporary Absence of the Regular Incumbent

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant. 
Career Opportunities (sapsf.com)

General Purpose
As part of the Learning & Curriculum Support team, Access Services develops and implements services that connect library users with experts, collections, technology, and spaces to help users study, engage in research, learn and explore. We do this by providing timely, proactive patron services in Circulation, Research Help, Interlibrary Loan services, and Stack Maintenance.
 
As members of the Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL) network and partner in the shared OMNI discovery system with other Ontario universities, the Access Services Assistant uses a shared library catalogue and patron database to assist faculty, students, staff and researchers. They provide immediate instruction and support to patrons accessing and using library resources and services in-person, by phone, by email, and by chat. Access Services Assistants are also responsible for all aspects of Resource Sharing and Interlibrary Loan for the University of Guelph community. This position is a member of a team of staff that provides services at the Library's Ask Us Desk during days, evenings, late nights and weekends. Team members are expected to perform a variety of duties in a fast-paced, frontline service environment.
 
Duties and Responsibilities
The Access Services Assistant reports to the Manager, Access Services, and is responsible for the following:
  • Patron services and instruction on library resources including communicating and enforcing library policies, instructing students on finding research resources, creating and managing patron accounts, troubleshooting technology and access issues, ensuring confidentiality and privacy for Library users, and referring library users to specialized supports based on their needs.
  • Resource Sharing and Interlibrary Loan services including assessing requests for copyright compliance, creating AODA compliant digital documents, fulfilling requests, and liaising with partner libraries.
  • Team collaboration and student staff training support including attending and participating in team and library meetings, serving on committees, assisting supervisory staff to train and guide student library assistants, and offering peer support to fellow Access Services Assistants in the performance of their work.

Requirements

Two (2) year Library Technician Diploma and at least 6 (six) months relevant library work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.  Advanced digital fluency, including proficiency in library systems, e-learning technologies and content management platforms as well as an ability to create, edit and manage online documents and files. Outstanding customer service ethic and proven customer service skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to build positive relationships with stakeholders and to exercise empathy, diplomacy and tact while working under pressure. Strong self-motivation and dependability.  Ability to work independently and in teams. Strong information organization and retrieval skills. Demonstrated problem-solving ability and willingness to take initiative in a service environment. Awareness of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility principles in service delivery. Strong understanding of the academic environment and library user services.
 
Preferred Qualifications
A bachelor's degree in any subject. Evidence of education or experience in library user services, interlibrary loan, copyright, records management training and/or certificate.
Evidence of training or experience in the Alma LSP environment.

Employee Type: Temporary covering regular incumbent
Position Number: 10400089 
Classification: USW, Local 4120 Salary: Band 4

USW Local 4120 Wage Grid

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 08/17/2026  
Closing Date: 08/23/2026 

Apply