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Volunteer Library Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC

Library Aide

Burke, VA · On-site

$21.18 - $29.12/hr

Circulation Assistant Provides circulation assistance to library customers. Performs essential ... Paid Leave (annual, sick, parental, volunteer activity, and more!) * Paid Holidays * Contributory ...

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Volunteer Library Assistant information

See Washington, DC salary details

$12

$22

$30

How much do volunteer library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer library assistant in Washington, DC is $22.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $23.94 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 Washington, DC?

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

What job categories do people searching Volunteer Library Assistant jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Volunteer Library Assistant jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Library Assistant job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,029 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Library - Assistant Director

Manassas Park, VA

Library Systems & Services LLC
Libraries and Archives • 1 - 5K employees

$62K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description

JOB SUMMARY

This position reports to, and works closely with, the Library Director in overseeing the operations of the library. This is an ideal position and opportunity for someone with previous success in a supervisory position or an experienced librarian in the public library space. The Assistant Library Director will have direct oversight of the Circulation team and ensure that exceptional customer service is provided to all patrons.

The Assistant Library Director will present the library to the community in a meaningful and enriching manner that will enhance the patron experience and increase visits and usage.


PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITES

An individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily.

  • Manages both the Technical Services team and Circulations Services team to include hiring, training, scheduling, assigning tasks, motivating, evaluating, and development
  • Help manage library Collection 
  • Supervises and provides leadership for day-to-day operations of the library
  • Develops, plans, promotes, and participates in programs and events
  • Gathers and maintains information/data to support periodic and special reports documenting activities for area of responsibility 
  • Writes and implements program grants
  • Provides effective communication on procedures and processes to staff and public
  • Assists with the implementation of the human resources policies, procedures, and processes
  • Responds to and resolve patron issues, including account questions and policy enforcement
  • Maintains an attractive, organized, and well-used library, including creating displays, shelving order, providing thoughtful programs and events, and feedback to the Director on the needs of the community
  • As needed, work customer service points. 
  • Know, understand, and administer the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement, and Freedom to View Statement, recognizing that freedom of access is a fundamental tenet of a public library; in addition to these freedoms, support client discretion of materials available at your local library(ies).
  • Follow all legal and policy requirements related to patron privacy and custodianship of patron records
  • Provides backup to the Library Director as needed
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS

An individual should possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed and meet the amount of education, training and/or work experience required.

  • ALA-accredited Master of Library Science or Master of Library and Information Science degree required
  • One to three years of public library experience preferred
  • Management/supervisory experience required
  • Experience tracking usage statistics, data collection and excel reports
  • Ability to build strong staff teams and develop staff
  • Excellent organizational, written and oral communication skills
  • Superior customer service skills
  • Accommodate a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends
  • Excellent technical skills, including a familiarity with Windows, Microsoft Suite, and knowledge of various technologies

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit for long periods of time and to maintain focus on projects such as computer screens or detailed paperwork. 
  • Occasionally lifting of items weighing up to twenty-five (25) pounds such as files, books, and other materials.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Retirement Plan (401k)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness Resources
  • Salary Range: $62,000 - $70,000

EEO STATEMENT

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. 

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. 

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.