Library Assistants, Clerical
O*NET 43-4121.00 · SOC 43-4121
Library Assistant is a risky career choice. Median pay is $37k a year with -6.4% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 12,300 openings a year. AI exposure: High.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Check library materials in and out at the circulation desk
- →Shelve returned books and other materials in correct order
- →Help patrons locate books, periodicals, or digital resources
- →Register new library cardholders and update patron accounts
- →Notify patrons when reserved or overdue materials are available
Education & How to Get In
Library Assistant roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths — you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
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Work Environment
Structured — offices, data centers, or remote
Independent — focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Library Assistant involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Library Assistant?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Library Assistant Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Library Assistants, Clerical is projected to decline 6.4% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·58% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target
- ·30% social/interpersonal tasks — hard for AI to replace
- ·Industry sector with high AI adoption trajectory
- ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Library Assistant make?
The median Library Assistant earns $37k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Library Assistant jobs?
Our model puts Library Assistant at 80 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is high disruption risk. The main drivers: 58% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target; 30% social/interpersonal tasks — hard for AI to replace.
Is Library Assistant a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 6.4% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 12,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Library Assistant?
Most Library Assistant roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Library Assistant?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Library Assistant career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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