How to hire an assistant librarian

How to hire an assistant librarian, step by step

Here's a step-by-step assistant librarian hiring guide:

• Step 1: Identify your hiring needs
• Step 2: Create an ideal candidate profile
• Step 3: Make a budget
• Step 4: Write an assistant librarian job description
• Step 5: Post your job
• Step 6: Interview candidates
• Step 7: Send a job offer and onboard your new assistant librarian
• Step 8: Go through the hiring process checklist

What does an assistant librarian do?

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1. Identify your hiring needs

   Before you start hiring an assistant librarian, identify what type of worker you actually need. Certain positions might call for a full-time employee, while others can be done by a part-time worker or contractor.

   Determine employee vs contractor status

   Is the person you're thinking of hiring a US citizen or green card holder?

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   Hiring the perfect assistant librarian also involves considering the ideal background you'd like them to have. Depending on what industry or field they have experience in, they'll bring different skills to the job. It's also important to consider what levels of seniority and education the job requires and what kind of salary such a candidate would likely demand.

   This list shows salaries for various types of assistant librarians.

   Type of Assistant Librarian	Description	Hourly rate
   Assistant Librarian	Library technicians and assistants help librarians with all aspects of running a library. They assist patrons, organize library materials and information, and perform clerical and administrative tasks.	$19-34
   Library Clerk	Library clerks help librarians by primarily doing sorting, shelving, updating database and files, and cataloging several library materials such as books, newspapers, magazines, and multimedia resources. They check books and other resources in and out of the library assist in the procurement of library supplies, work with audio-visual equipment most of the time... Show more	$11-18
   Library Aide	A library aide is responsible for overseeing and managing the day-to-day operations of libraries. Typical duties include assisting customers in finding books, shelving books according to categories, and updating and maintaining customer profiles... Show more	$10-17

   Show more

2. Create an ideal candidate profile

   Common skills:

   • Library Materials
   • Reference Services
   • Library Services
   • Circulation Desk
   • Collection Development
   • Library Resources
   • Research Assistance
   • Interlibrary Loan
   • Library Patrons
   • Library System
   • Cataloging
   • Front Desk
   • OCLC
   • Library Operations

   Check all skills

   Responsibilities:

   • Manage yearly budget for DVDs.
   • Cataloge new book, reclassify, original updates using OCLC.
   • Help patrons with computers, word processing, and PowerPoint.
   • Provide customer service through assisting the patrons with their research topics and general questions through OCLC library information system.
   • Create PowerPoint presentations for orientation.
   • Provide opportunities for students to use the library for class-relate research, individual investigation, independent reading, and personal inquiry.

   More assistant librarian duties

3. Make a budget

   Including a salary range in your assistant librarian job description is a great way to entice the best and brightest candidates. An assistant librarian salary can vary based on several factors:

   • Location. For example, assistant librarians' average salary in missouri is 42% less than in alaska.
   • Seniority. Entry-level assistant librarians earn 44% less than senior-level assistant librarians.
   • Certifications. An assistant librarian with a few certifications under their belt will likely demand a higher salary.
   • Company. Working for a prestigious company or an exciting start-up can make a huge difference in an assistant librarian's salary.

   Average assistant librarian salary

   $53,764yearly

   $25.85 hourly rate

   ---

   Entry-level assistant librarian salary

   $40,000 yearly salary

   Updated December 19, 2025

   Average assistant librarian salary by state

   Rank	State	Avg. salary	Hourly rate
   1	California	$73,805	$35
   2	Washington	$71,288	$34
   3	Massachusetts	$66,569	$32
   4	Connecticut	$64,439	$31
   5	Minnesota	$61,610	$30
   6	New Hampshire	$61,587	$30
   7	New York	$59,465	$29
   8	Oregon	$58,160	$28
   9	Colorado	$54,906	$26
   10	Illinois	$54,699	$26
   11	Kansas	$54,372	$26
   12	Virginia	$53,244	$26
   13	Arizona	$53,000	$25
   14	Louisiana	$52,941	$25
   15	Michigan	$51,727	$25
   16	Wisconsin	$51,304	$25
   17	Utah	$49,860	$24
   18	Indiana	$48,689	$23
   19	Texas	$48,260	$23
   20	Florida	$47,529	$23

   Average assistant librarian salary by company

   Company

   Rank	Company	Average salary	Hourly rate	Job openings
   1	Kent Daniels & Associates	$70,132	$33.72
   2	University of Washington	$67,672	$32.53
   3	University at Albany	$65,256	$31.37
   4	Arizona State University	$62,735	$30.16
   5	Marist College	$61,495	$29.56
   6	The University of Kansas Health System	$60,420	$29.05
   7	University of Michigan	$59,504	$28.61	1
   8	University at Buffalo	$59,407	$28.56
   9	Nashua Country Club	$58,671	$28.21
   10	Indiana University Bloomington	$58,223	$27.99	9
   11	California State University, Northridge	$58,101	$27.93
   12	State University of New York College at Cortland	$57,972	$27.87
   13	LA State University Continuing	$57,922	$27.85	5
   14	University of Notre Dame	$57,584	$27.68	1
   15	University Of Minnesota Physicians	$57,429	$27.61
   16	Western Connecticut State University	$56,561	$27.19	2
   17	California State University, Fresno	$55,845	$26.85
   18	UMass Dartmouth	$55,135	$26.51	1
   19	IUPUI	$54,797	$26.34
   20	Metropolitan State University of Denver	$53,818	$25.87

4. Writing an assistant librarian job description

   A job description for an assistant librarian role includes a summary of the job's main responsibilities, required skills, and preferred background experience. Including a salary range can also go a long way in attracting more candidates to apply, and showing the first name of the hiring manager can also make applicants more comfortable. As an example, here's an assistant librarian job description:

   Assistant librarian job description example

   Under the general direction of branch management, performs a variety of services in support of patron service. Specific duties will vary in variety and volume depending on location.
   Duties and Responsibilities
   
   * Serves the public by checking in and out library materials, collecting money for lost and damaged materials, issues new/replacement library cards, registers new patrons and processes name and address changes.
   * Responsible for collection maintenance duties: sorts and shelves library materials; empties book-drop(s); shelf-reading; shifts materials; cleans, dusts, and inspects library materials for damage; discards and repairs library materials.
   * Ensures circulation policies and procedures are followed for the proper handling of customer and material records for an accurate library database. This includes data entry of late, lost, damaged, and claims returned items, and patron information including necessary notes.
   * Sorts, packs, unpacks, and inspects library materials received from or being delivered to other libraries.
   * Runs reports and lists for item hold information and inter-library loan requests. Provides lists to others for purposes of retrieving items requested, and routes items appropriately. Contacts patrons or other libraries as necessary.
   * Provides reference and information services to library patrons. Duties include, but are not limited to: receiving and answering of questions regarding collections, library services and policies; interpreting patron needs.
   * Assists patrons in their search for library materials; provides materials advisory and reference interview services as needed by utilizing ILS, print sources, KDL electronic databases and online tools with proficiency.
   * Effectively facilitates access to KDL's digital collection by providing demonstrations of and assistance with multiple format eReader devises and applications.
   * Delivers directional information to the public. Refers advance reference requests to Branch Librarians.
   * Provides information to customers regarding the Library's circulation policies, procedures and refers issues.
   * Counts, balances, and records monies received through the point of sale. Forwards reconciled funds and paperwork to the Finance Department.
   * Provides assistance to patrons and staff in the use of library equipment and machines (e.g., copier, printer, on-line catalog, word processing, etc.); performs routine maintenance and corrects minor malfunctions of library equipment, such as refilling paper and toner and assisting with paper jams.
   * Performs other clerical tasks upon request, including materials order entry, supply ordering, word processing, filing, checking in new periodicals, etc.
   * Sorts and distributes U.S. and inter-office mail.
   * Provides training and guidance to less experienced staff and may serve as a team leader on group assignments.
   * Performs other duties as assigned.
   
   Job Requirements
   
   * High school diploma or GED required.
   * Previous work experience in a library or retail setting preferred.
   * Basic clerical skills including computer and telephone skills.
   * Knowledge of popular culture and various genres of material in the library collection.
   * Basic mathematical skills necessary for routine calculations.
   * Working knowledge and understanding of KDL policies and procedures.
   * Ability to work with general supervision and adhere to established policies and procedures.
   * Interpersonal and communication skills for interaction with staff and customers in a highly effective and courteous manner. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
   * Skills necessary to effectively provide leadership and guidance to less experienced circulation staff.
   * Visual acuity necessary to retrieve library materials from shelves or storage areas.
   * Physical ability to push/pull fully loaded book carts, retrieve or place materials above shoulder or below knee level, and lift/carry materials and delivery bags weighing up to 40 pounds.
   * Hearing ability to answer telephone and customer inquiries.
   * Manual dexterity, visual acuity and sufficient keyboarding/PC skills to effectively access information on the computer.
   * Ability to operate a variety of equipment including computer, cash register, fax and copy machine.
   * Ability to travel between work locations and related places of business as needed.
   * Generally will work within a normal office environment, with minimal discomfort due to extreme temperatures, dust, and noise.
   * Requires occasional travel between KDL locations, and may include out of county travel for meetings and conferences.
   * There are two vacancies and the schedules are as follows:
   * Schedule One: Tuesday: 8:30-5:00 (9:00-12:00 when working weekend),Thursday: 11:45-8:15,Friday: 8:30-5:00 / 9:45-6:15 (OFF when working weekend), Every Fourth Weekend: Saturday: 8:45-5:15 Sunday: 12:15-5:15.
   * Schedule Two:Monday: 8:30-5:00 (9:00-12:00 when working weekend),Wednesday: 8:30-5:00 (OFF when working weekend), Thursday: 11:45-8:15,Every Fourth Weekend: Saturday: 8:45-5:15 Sunday: 12:15-5:15
   
   Frequent sitting/standing in one position for extended periods of time. Additional Information
   
   * The library employment environment typically requires extensive computer keyboard and mouse activity, in-person, electronic and telephone communication skills. Meeting attendance at various branch and service center locations is expected; self-identified mode of transportation is required. The preparation, loading and carrying or moving of materials is commonly required for all KDL positions. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.
   *
   * This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person assigned to this job. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties that may be performed by a person so classified.
   *
   * KDL provides library services to our local communities seven days per week.
   * While this position is currently assigned to the above location, KDL reserves the right to requireemployees to be available for assignments at any KDL location.
   
   Kent District Library is recognized as one of the Best & Brightest Companies to Work for in West Michigan2019. This stems from offering competitive pay, outstanding benefits and fostering excellent work-life balance, but more than anything, it comes as a result of our workplace culture and sense of purpose, which is to further all people.
   
   To learn more about working at Kent District Library, check out our video:
   
   Behind the Scenes @ KDL
   
   The library employment environment typically requires extensive computer keyboard and mouse activity, in-person, electronic and telephone communication skills. Meeting attendance at various branch and service center locations is expected; self-identified mode of transportation is required. The preparation, loading and carrying or moving of materials is commonly required for all KDL positions. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.
   
   This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person assigned to this job. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties that may be performed by a person so classified.

   Copy this example

   

5. Post your job

   To find the right assistant librarian for your business, consider trying out a few different recruiting strategies:

   • Consider internal talent. One of the most important sources of talent for any company is its existing workforce.
   • Ask for referrals. Reach out to friends, family members, and current employees and ask if they know or have worked with assistant librarians they would recommend.
   • Recruit at local colleges. Attend job fairs at local colleges to recruit assistant librarians who meet your education requirements.
   • Social media platforms. LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter now have more than 3.5 billion users, and you can use social media to reach potential job candidates.

   Post your job online:

   • Post your assistant librarian job on Zippia to find and recruit assistant librarian candidates who meet your exact specifications.
   • Use field-specific websites.
   • Post a job on free websites.

6. Interview candidates

   Recruiting assistant librarians requires you to bring your A-game to the interview process. The first interview should introduce the company and the role to the candidate as much as they present their background experience and reasons for applying for the job. During later interviews, you can go into more detail about the technical details of the job and ask behavioral questions to gauge how they'd fit into your current company culture.

   You should also ask about candidates' unique skills and talents to see if they match the ideal candidate profile you developed earlier. Candidates good enough for the next step can complete the technical interview.

   The right interview questions can help you assess a candidate's hard skills, behavioral intelligence, and soft skills.

7. Send a job offer and onboard your new assistant librarian

   Once you have selected a candidate for the assistant librarian position, it is time to create an offer letter. In addition to salary, the offer letter should include details about benefits and perks that are available to the employee. Ensuring your offer is competitive is vital, as qualified candidates may be considering other job opportunities. The candidate may wish to negotiate the terms of the offer, and it is important to be open to discussion and reach a mutually beneficial agreement. After the offer has been accepted, it is a good idea to formalize the agreement with a contract.

   It's equally important to follow up with applicants who don't get the job with an email letting them know that the position has been filled.

   Once that's done, you can draft an onboarding schedule for the new assistant librarian. Human Resources should complete Employee Action Forms and ensure that onboarding paperwork is completed, including I-9s, benefits enrollment, federal and state tax forms, etc. They should also ensure that new employee files are created for internal recordkeeping.

8. Go through the hiring process checklist

   • Determine employee type (full-time, part-time, contractor, etc.)
   • Submit a job requisition form to the HR department
   • Define job responsibilities and requirements
   • Establish budget and timeline
   • Determine hiring decision makers for the role
   • Write job description
   • Post job on job boards, company website, etc.
   • Promote the job internally
   • Process applications through applicant tracking system
   • Review resumes and cover letters
   • Shortlist candidates for screening
   • Hold phone/virtual interview screening with first round of candidates
   • Conduct in-person interviews with top candidates from first round
   • Score candidates based on weighted criteria (e.g., experience, education, background, cultural fit, skill set, etc.)
   • Conduct background checks on top candidates
   • Check references of top candidates
   • Consult with HR and hiring decision makers on job offer specifics
   • Extend offer to top candidate(s)
   • Receive formal job offer acceptance and signed employment contract
   • Inform other candidates that the position has been filled
   • Set and communicate onboarding schedule to new hire(s)
   • Complete new hire paperwork (i9, benefits enrollment, tax forms, etc.)

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