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Library Assistant Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

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Library Assistant information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$8

$18

$26

How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Columbus, OH is $18.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Library Assistants?

Library Assistants are support staff who help ensure the smooth operation of libraries. They assist patrons with finding materials, check books in and out, organize and shelve library items, and help maintain library records. Their duties often include answering basic questions, processing new materials, and supporting librarians in daily tasks. Library Assistants play an important role in making the library a welcoming and organized space for everyone.

What is the difference between Library Assistant vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary AssistantLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer post-secondary courseworkPost-secondary education or certification in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic, school, or academic libraries; routine tasks assisting patrons and organizing materialsMore technical tasks, cataloging, managing digital resources, supporting library systems
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in public and educational libraries; entry-level positionFound in larger libraries, academic institutions, and specialized settings; requires more technical skills

The main difference between a Library Assistant and a Library Technician lies in their responsibilities and required qualifications. Library Assistants handle routine patron service and organization tasks, often with minimal formal education. In contrast, Library Technicians perform more technical duties like cataloging and managing digital resources, requiring additional training or certification. Both roles are essential in supporting library operations, but Library Technicians typically have a higher level of technical expertise and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Library Assistants face, and how can they effectively handle them?

Library Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of patron requests, maintaining accurate organization of materials, and adapting to new library technologies. To handle these effectively, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, practice clear communication with patrons and colleagues, and stay up to date with library management systems. Regular training and seeking support from senior staff can also help Library Assistants navigate busy periods and technology updates with confidence.

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

To thrive as a Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring library science coursework or experience. Familiarity with library cataloging systems, integrated library software (like Koha or Aleph), and basic computer applications is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and teamwork abilities help Library Assistants effectively support patrons and library staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient library operations, ensuring accurate resource management, and providing a welcoming environment for users.

What Does a Library Assistant Do?

Library assistants support the head librarian in operating the library and maintaining its materials. Other responsibilities include cataloging books, movies, audio resources, reference materials, slides, and microfilm. Library assistants inspect these items regularly for damage or missing pieces, especially while they are checking out resources to library patrons. As a library assistant, you must enjoy helping visitors locate materials, as well as providing technical assistance as needed. While a library assistant job does not require education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent, job seekers pursuing a career as a librarian will need a master’s degree in library science or a related field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Columbus, OH? The most popular types of Library jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Assistant jobs in Columbus, OH? For Library Assistant jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Library Assistant jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Library Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Columbus, OH as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,534 per year, or $18 per hour.

Research Library Assistant

EDISON WELDING INSTITUTE INC

Columbus, OH • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

EWI is a world leader in developing and deploying new technologies that enable companies to bridge the gap between R&D and manufacturing implementation.  EWI Associates are passionate about identifying out-of-the-box options that provide a long-term competitive advantage for our clients.  Our clients tell us we are a valuable extension and complement to their innovation, engineering and manufacturing teams. If you enjoy working with customers and solving challenging, technical problems, EWI is the place for you.

EWI is seeking a detail-oriented Research Library Assistant to support library and records management activities in a temporary role based on ongoing project needs.  The position will be temporary, part-time with a schedule up to 20 hours per week.  The duration of the role will depend on project needs and individual performance. 

This role will focus on organizing, cleaning, cataloging, and documenting physical and electronic library resources within a new Library Management System. The position will support ongoing library modernization, space management, and records retention initiatives and will work closely with library staff to ensure accurate, accessible, and well-documented resources. This role is ideal for candidates with interests in library science, records management, information organization, or archival work.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Clean up, organize, and document library materials by record type in a new Library Management
  • Create, update, and correct catalog records, including barcoding, metadata completion, and document type corrections
  • Evaluate materials for retention, access permissions, and research value
  • Assist with scanning, digitization, and preparation of records for long-term retention or destruction
  • Support physical library organization, shelf management, and labeling projects
  • Work with staff to apply records retention and copyright guidelines

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

  • Familiarity with the Library of Congress Classification system, library cataloging concepts, metadata, or records management
  • Understanding of copyright considerations for print and electronic materials is a plus
  • Experience working with physical collections and digital documents preferred
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to work independently on clearly defined tasks while coordinating with library staff
  • Ability to organize, evaluate and document large volumes of information systematically
  • Comfortable working with databases, document management systems, and shared drives (training provided)
  • Basic scanning and file organization skills
  • Ability to follow established procedures and document workflows

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to lift and move materials up to approximately 25 lbs.
  • Ability to stand, bend, reach, and work with shelves and storage areas
  • Ability to perform extended computer and scanning work
  • On-site work in library and storage spaces

EXPORT CONTROLS - This position requires access to information and technology that is subject to U.S. export controls.  To conform to U.S. export control regulations, applicant should be eligible for any required authorizations from the U.S. Government.

EOE/M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status

Accommodations

Individuals who need reasonable accommodations under the ADA in order to participate in the search and/or application process should contact Human Resources at (614) 688-5000.