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Volunteer Library Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Incumbents may oversee, monitor, and/or direct the work of part-time, temporary, and/or volunteer staff. The Library Assistant is the entry level in the Library series. This class is distinguished ...

Library Assistant

Scotia, CA · On-site

$45K - $57K/yr

Incumbents may oversee, monitor, and/or direct the work of part-time, temporary, and/or volunteer staff. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS The Library Assistant is the entry level in the Library series.

Incumbents may oversee, monitor, and/or direct the work of part-time, temporary, and/or volunteer staff. The Library Assistant is the entry level in the Library series. This class is distinguished ...

Library Assistant

Folsom, CA · On-site

$45K - $57K/yr

Incumbents may oversee, monitor, and/or direct the work of part-time, temporary, and/or volunteer staff. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS The Library Assistant is the entry level in the Library series.

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Volunteer Library Assistant information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$26

How much do volunteer library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer library assistant in California is $19.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer library assistant?

Volunteer Library Assistants are individuals who offer their time and support to libraries without receiving financial compensation. They help with a variety of tasks, such as shelving books, assisting patrons in finding materials, organizing library events, and performing administrative duties. These volunteers play a crucial role in supporting library staff, enhancing library services, and helping maintain a welcoming environment for the community. Their work allows libraries to offer more programs and extend their reach to more patrons.

What are the typical responsibilities of a volunteer library assistant?

Volunteer Library Assistants often help with shelving books, organizing materials, assisting patrons in locating resources, and supporting library events or programs. Their work ensures that materials are accessible and the library remains a welcoming, organized space. Volunteers may also assist with checking in and out materials under supervision, helping with displays, or aiding staff during busy periods. This role is collaborative, often involving communication with both staff and patrons, and offers valuable experience in customer service and library operations.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic literacy, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library cataloging systems and common office software is beneficial for managing collections and assisting patrons. Excellent communication, reliability, and a helpful attitude are standout soft skills in this role. These qualities ensure efficient library operations and create a welcoming environment for visitors.

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

AspectVolunteer Library AssistantLibrary Clerk
Required CredentialsNone typically required; some familiarity with library operations helpfulHigh school diploma or equivalent often required; some positions may need basic computer skills
Work EnvironmentPublic library, community centers, or school libraries; volunteer basisPublic or academic libraries; paid position
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, community libraries, schoolsPublic libraries, government agencies, educational institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding volunteer roles in librariesJob responsibilities and qualifications for library support staff

Volunteer Library Assistants typically support library operations on a volunteer basis without formal credentials, working in community or school libraries. Library Clerks are paid staff members with basic educational requirements, working in similar environments. Both roles assist with shelving, customer service, and administrative tasks, but the Volunteer Library Assistant role is unpaid and often more flexible.

Can I be a volunteer library assistant with no experience?

Yes, many volunteer library assistant positions do not require prior experience. These roles often provide on-the-job training and focus on basic tasks like shelving, organizing, and assisting patrons, making them accessible to newcomers.

What qualifications do you need for a volunteer library assistant?

Volunteer library assistants typically need good communication skills, basic computer literacy, and a responsible attitude. Some positions may require age restrictions, background checks, or completion of a volunteer application. Formal education is usually not required, but a high school diploma or equivalent can be beneficial.

What are popular job titles related to Volunteer Library Assistant jobs in California?

For Volunteer Library Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Volunteer Library Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Volunteer Library Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Volunteer Library Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Volunteer Library Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Library Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,108 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Library Assistant

Sacramento, CA • On-site

GovernmentJobs.com
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Library Assistant

Anchored in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada - 20 miles east of Sacramento and about 1.5 hours from Lake Tahoe - the City of Folsom is comprised of beautiful parks and trails, and boasts excellent schools, family-orientated neighborhoods, and outstanding shopping, dining, and cultural options. Folsom is a high-tech, forward-looking city, with firms ranging from small to large international corporations. Voted by WalletHub as the Best Place for Families to Live in California, and 2nd Best Lake Town in America, Folsom is recognized for its affordability, fair weather, education, and health.

The Folsom Public Library is currently hiring a Library Assistant to assist with the daily functions of the library. This is a Tuesday - Saturday work schedule, with shifts rotating between 8:40am - 5:10pm and 10:40am - 7:10pm. Under general supervision, perform heavy public contact activities and various clerical duties for the City of Folsom library. Incumbents may oversee, monitor, and/or direct the work of part-time, temporary, and/or volunteer staff.

The Library Assistant is the entry level in the Library series. This class is distinguished from the Library Technician in that the latter performs tasks requiring a solid knowledge of library materials and procedures, while the Library Assistant performs routine clerical duties specific to a library environment.

Examples of Essential Duties

The following are the duties performed by employees in this classification. However, employees may perform other related duties at an equivalent level. Each individual in the classification does not necessarily perform all the duties listed.

  • Prepare print and non-print materials for introduction into the library collection including basic cataloging; assist patrons in locating such items.
  • Prepare and affix identification labels to materials.
  • Assist in the acquisition, processing, and maintenance of periodical and material collections.
  • Check out and check in library materials to patrons.
  • Register patrons and establish eligibility status and input information into database.
  • Collect fines and fees and count monies.
  • Respond to patrons in-person and over the telephone regarding requests for library materials, services, and information; refer problems, readers' advisory, and reference questions to supervisor.
  • Instruct patrons in use of library equipment including, but not limited to computers and photocopiers.
  • Respond to patron questions regarding library policies.
  • Repair a variety of materials such as magazines and books including reinforcing spines and taping torn pages.
  • Maintain the catalog, records, and other files.
  • Gather mis-shelved and displaced items
  • Locate, retrieve, and shelve books and other materials using index and catalog guides.
  • Participate in the preparation and maintenance of displays and exhibits.
  • Assist in giving group tours to children, parents, and organizations.
  • Assist with the delivery of various library programs.
  • Follow opening and closing procedures of the library.
  • Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.
Employment Standards

The level and scope of the following knowledge and abilities are related to duties listed under the "Examples of Essential Duties" section of this specification.

Knowledge of:

  • Basic library techniques.
  • Standard public library procedures including cataloging, bibliographic search procedures, and the use of reference sources and materials.
  • Modern office procedures.
  • Methods and computer equipment.
  • Alphabetical, numerical, and chronological filing systems.
  • Basic mathematic principles.
  • Recordkeeping practices and principles.
  • Common word processing, spreadsheet, and database software.

Ability to:

  • Learn computerized cataloging, bibliographical, and circulation system databases and rules for entry of materials.
  • Learn library practices and procedures.
  • Learn location of materials in the library.
  • Work accurately with alphanumeric codes.
  • Follow oral and written instructions.
  • Assist patrons in the location and use of library materials.
  • Type at a speed necessary for successful work performance.
  • Operate a personal computer and use software.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Minimum Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma, G.E.D., or equivalent to the completion of the 12th grade. Experience: One (1) year of full-time customer service experience. Physical Requirements: Work is performed in a typical office environment. (1) Mobility: frequent use of keyboard; frequent sitting and standing for long periods of time; occasional bending or squatting. (2) Lifting: frequently up to 10 pounds; occasionally up to 25 pounds. (3) Vision: constant use of overall vision; frequent reading and close-up work; occasional color and depth vision. (4) Dexterity: frequent repetitive motion; frequent writing; frequent grasping, holding, and reaching. (5) Hearing/ Talking: frequent hearing and talking, in person and on the phone. (6) Emotional/ Psychological: frequent decision-making and concentration; frequent public and/or coworker contact; occasional working alone. (7) Environmental: frequent exposure to noise.