Education and qualifications: Librarians typically have a master's degree in library science (MLS), while library assistants may have an associate's degree or bachelor's degree in library science or a related field.
Job duties: Librarians are responsible for a wide range of tasks, including selecting, organizing, and maintaining library materials; providing reference and research assistance to patrons; and developing and implementing library programs and services. Library assistants typically perform more clerical and technical tasks, such as checking in and out materials, shelving books, and assisting patrons with basic research questions.
Salary: Librarians typically earn higher salaries than library assistants. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for librarians was $59,120 in May 2020, while the median annual salary for library assistants was $28,320.
Career opportunities: Librarians have more career opportunities than library assistants. They may work in a variety of settings, including public libraries, academic libraries, special libraries, and corporate libraries. Library assistants typically have fewer career opportunities and are more likely to work in public libraries.
Overall, librarians and library assistants are both important members of the library team, but they have different roles and responsibilities.