Library assistant

What does a Library Assistant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

Library assistants work to provide service to visitors at libraries, handle books and other media, and assist librarians in daily tasks. Common duties include lending and returning, registering loans, shelving books, simple information searches, and maintaining order in the library spaces. The work environment is often calm and pleasant, with much interaction with people of all ages, including children, youth, and seniors. Library assistants are mainly found at public libraries, school libraries, and university libraries, but can also work in special libraries and certain companies.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary development for library assistants has been stable over the past three years, with a slight positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 28,400 SEK per month, increasing to 28 900 in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 30 000, representing an increase of approximately 5.6% over the period. The salary increase is linked to general wage pressures in the labor market, increased demands for service and digital skills, and some competition for experienced assistants in larger cities. Although traditionally a low-paid profession, equal pay between genders and increased educational requirements have contributed to a cautious but steady improvement in wages for employees.

Library Assistant Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 30 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,800 SEK (female, government sector, pre-high school education); 27,900 SEK (male, government sector, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary: 32,400 SEK (female, public sector, post-secondary education); 31,800 SEK (male, public sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 180 SEK
• Gender differences: None – women and men earn equally within the profession
• Regional differences: Salary levels are generally consistent across the country, but variations can occur depending on employer and region.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a library assistant, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a focus on social sciences, culture, or administration. Many employers view experience from similar service roles or internships in library environments positively. Shorter courses and internal training are also common, especially within digital library systems and customer service. For certain positions, post-secondary education may be advantageous, but formal requirements vary between employers.

• High school diploma: The most common basic requirement, especially in social sciences or administration
• Internship/Trainee: Practical work in libraries is advantageous
• Short courses: For example, in digital library systems and information retrieval
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish language skills and service experience are often requested
• Tips for selection: Experience in customer service or education in culture/sectors increases employment chances

Common Benefits and Compensation

Library assistants are often covered by collective agreements, which include occupational pensions, vacation pay, sick pay, and sometimes wellness allowances. Flexible working hours, part-time options, further training, and internal career paths are also available. Employers in the public sector typically offer stable employment conditions and good working environments.

Competition and Challenges

The labor market for library assistants is characterized by a limited number of positions and relatively high competition, especially in larger cities where many seek employment in the cultural sector. Digitalization and automation of library services have changed the profession, requiring higher technical understanding and adaptability. At the same time, the need for personal service and guidance for visitors ensures the role remains important, but tasks are evolving quickly. Lack of clear career paths within the profession can be a challenge for long-term development. Nonetheless, demand remains stable, and job security is good, particularly in the public sector.

Tips for Aspiring Library Assistants

To succeed as a library assistant, it is helpful to enjoy helping others and have a strong sense of service. Precision is crucial since order and structure are needed when handling books and records, while flexibility is necessary when new tasks or digital systems are introduced. Social skills facilitate contact with visitors and colleagues, and an interest in culture and literature often provides extra motivation. Being proactive and willing to take responsibility, for example, for events or activities, is also an asset. For those looking to develop further, participating in additional training and staying updated on new digital services is recommended. Finally, patience and resilience are important qualities, especially during busy periods or when changes in work routines occur.

Key Facts About Library Assistant

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with shorter courses
• Work environment: Public libraries, school libraries, and university settings
• Work arrangements: Full-time, part-time, and hourly employment are common
• Demand: 758 job openings within the profession in Sweden
• Gender distribution: Equal pay between women and men

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After gaining some experience as a library assistant, opportunities may exist to further qualify as a librarian or specialize in areas such as digital media, youth services, or system administration. Some move into supervisory roles within the library, such as coordinator or unit manager. According to the Employment Service, no specific forecast is made for the future outlook of library assistants due to limited data, but the demand for service-oriented personnel with digital skills is expected to remain stable. There are also opportunities to work in related roles such as archive assistant, administrator, or within the broader cultural sector.

Frequently Asked Questions about Library Assistant

• What does a Library Assistant earn?
  - A library assistant has an average salary of 30 000 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - No, men and women earn equally within the profession of library assistant.
• What education is required to become a Library Assistant?
  - Typically, a high school diploma is required, often supplemented with shorter courses or internships.
• What is the working environment like for library assistants?
  - The working environment is usually calm and social, with lots of contact with visitors and colleagues.
• Are there good future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is stable, but the Employment Service does not make a specific forecast due to limited data.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Library Assistant?
  - The highest salary is 32,400 SEK (female, public sector), and the lowest is 26,800 SEK (female, government sector).
• What personal qualities are important for a Library Assistant?
  - Service-mindedness, accuracy, flexibility, and social skills are highly valued.