Library Assistant: what the job is, what it pays, and how to get hired.

Median pay

$36,910

BLS May 2025

Employed in the U.S.

85,520

BLS May 2025

Preparation

Job Zone 1-2 of 5

very little to some preparation

Most common education

High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)

50% of workers

Data Government data groups this job as Library Assistants, Clerical (O*NET-SOC 43-4121.00). Figures on this page are for that occupation.

1. Sort books, publications, and other items according to established procedure and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
2. Open and close library during specified hours and secure library equipment, such as computers and audio-visual equipment.
3. Locate library materials for patrons, including books, periodicals, tape cassettes, Braille volumes, and pictures.
4. Enter and update patrons' records on computers.
5. Answer routine inquiries and refer patrons in need of professional assistance to librarians.
6. Manage reserve materials by placing items on reserve for library patrons, checking items in and out of library, and removing out-of-date items.
7. Lend, reserve, and collect books, periodicals, videotapes, and other materials at circulation desks and process materials for inter-library loans.
8. Instruct patrons on how to use reference sources, card catalogs, and automated information systems.

Telework available

less than 0.5%

of workers had the ability to telework

Workday sitting

39.8%

mean share of the day required to sit

Most common strength level

Light

85.3% of workers

Can pause work

54.3%

of workers could take short, unscheduled breaks

Self-paced workload

less than 5%

of workers set their own workload

Employer-changed schedules

52.1%

of workers had schedules changed by the employer week to week

On TryHired lists: Jobs that don't require experience.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Requirements Survey. Estimates are preliminary; ranges are shown as published.

1. Government, excluding state and local education and hospitals63.9% of all jobs in this occupation · -6.5% projected change here 2025–35 · mean wage $39,080
2. Educational services; state, local, and private26.1% of all jobs in this occupation · -9.1% projected change here 2025–35 · mean wage $40,980
3. Web search portals, libraries, archives, and other information services8.9% of all jobs in this occupation · +2.5% projected change here 2025–35 · mean wage $37,000
4. Religious, grantmaking, civic, professional, and similar organizations0.3% of all jobs in this occupation · -7.8% projected change here 2025–35 · mean wage $37,940
5. Administrative and support services0.2% of all jobs in this occupation · -11.0% projected change here 2025–35 · mean wage $34,980
6. Professional, scientific, and technical services0.1% of all jobs in this occupation · -3.0% projected change here 2025–35 · mean wage $51,540

Sources: BLS 2025–35 National Employment Matrix (share of the occupation's jobs, projected change) and BLS OEWS May 2025 industry estimates (mean wage). Different industry estimates are not a pay forecast for any person.

Knowledge areas: Customer and Personal Service, Administrative, English Language, Education and Training.

• Adobe PhotoshopGraphics or photo imaging softwareHot technology
• Automated circulation systemsLibrary software
• Cataloging softwareLibrary software
• Microsoft PublisherDesktop publishing software
• Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) databasesLibrary software
• ResourceMate PlusLibrary software
• Video retrieval systemsInformation retrieval or search software
• WorldCatLibrary software
• Microsoft ExcelSpreadsheet softwareIn demand
• Microsoft Office softwareOffice suite softwareIn demand
• Adobe AcrobatDocument management softwareHot technology
• C++Object or component oriented development softwareHot technology

Also called: Acquisitions Assistant, Cataloging Assistant, Library Aide, Library Associate, Library Circulation Assistant.