Office & Administrative Support
Library Assistants, Clerical
Also called: Acquisitions Assistant, Cataloging Assistant, Library Aide, Library Assistant
US median pay
$36,910
per year, 2025
Job growth 2025–35
-6.4%
declining
Openings a year (US)
12,300
89,500 employed
Typical entry education
High school diploma or equivalent
Preparation 2/5 · Some preparation
What this job is
Compile records, and sort, shelve, issue, and receive library materials such as books, electronic media, pictures, cards, slides and microfilm. Locate library materials for loan and replace material in shelving area, stacks, or files according to identification number and title. Register patrons to permit them to borrow books, periodicals, and other library materials.
What they do day to day
- Sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
- Open and close library during specified hours and secure library equipment, such as computers and audio-visual equipment.
- Locate library materials for patrons, including books, periodicals, tape cassettes, Braille volumes, and pictures.
- Enter and update patrons' records on computers.
- Answer routine inquiries and refer patrons in need of professional assistance to librarians.
- Manage reserve materials by placing items on reserve for library patrons, checking items in and out of library, and removing out-of-date items.
- Lend, reserve, and collect books, periodicals, videotapes, and other materials at circulation desks and process materials for inter-library loans.
- Instruct patrons on how to use reference sources, card catalogs, and automated information systems.
- Inspect returned books for condition and due-date status and compute any applicable fines.
- Maintain records of items received, stored, issued, and returned and file catalog cards according to system used.
Skills and knowledge that matter most
Skills
- Service Orientation3.4/5
- Coordination3.0/5
- Time Management2.9/5
- Social Perceptiveness2.9/5
- Complex Problem Solving2.9/5
- Judgment and Decision Making2.8/5
- Instructing2.8/5
- Management of Personnel Resources2.2/5
Knowledge
- Customer and Personal Service3.7/5
- Administrative3.7/5
- English Language3.6/5
- Education and Training3.0/5
- Psychology3.0/5
- Computers and Electronics3.0/5
Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).
Education and preparation
Preparation level 2 of 5 — Some preparation. Usually a high school diploma; some previous work experience or training helps.
Typical entry education (BLS): High school diploma or equivalent.
Highest education of people in this job:
- High school diploma50%
- Some college14%
- Associate's degree12%
Who this job suits
Mostly Conventional
Organising data, details and procedures
Social
Helping, teaching and caring for people
Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.