Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Library Assistant
What library assistants actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a library assistant?
Empty the book drop. From there, the day usually includes check materials in and out, shelve books, and issue library cards. Many part-time jobs, with evening and weekend shifts.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a library assistant working full time.
- Empty the book drop.
- Check in returns.
- Open the doors and staff the desk.
- Help a patron print.
- Shelve returned books.
- Process holds.
- Help with after-school crowds.
Where library assistants work
Library assistants work in public, school and academic libraries.
Hours and schedule
Many part-time jobs, with evening and weekend shifts.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Check materials in and out
- Shelve books
- Issue library cards
- Process holds
- Help patrons with computers
- Answer basic questions
- Keep shelves in order
Tools you’ll use every day
- Integrated library systems
- Barcode scanners
- Self-checkout stations
- Public computers
- Printers and copiers
- Book carts
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Quiet, friendly setting
- Short training
- Help your community
- Part-time options
What’s hard
- Declining employment
- Low pay
- Repetitive tasks
- Some difficult patrons
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love libraries
- I’m friendly
- I’m organized
- I don’t mind repetitive tasks
- I like helping people
- I want a quiet workplace
Not sure? Take the free Library Assistant fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Lift and push carts safely
- Follow security procedures
- Protect patron privacy
- Know emergency exits