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Circulation Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Library Assistant I/II

Sonora, CA · On-site

$17.32 - $22.06/hr

Performs circulation work, including checking materials in and out of the Library, maintaining ... Library Assistant II's may substitute for Senior Library Assistants running a branch to cover ...

Provide front-line service to students and faculty, including circulation, access support, directional research assistance, technology support, and general library inquiries. * Assist students and ...

Library Assistant

Larkspur, CA · On-site

$26.83 - $35.96/hr

Check materials in and out using automated circulation software. * Process new patron applications ... Read shelves to maintain order; assist with shelving, weeding, and boxing weeded materials as ...

Library Assistant

Larkspur, CA · On-site

$26.83 - $35.96/hr

Check materials in and out using automated circulation software. * Process new patron applications ... Read shelves to maintain order; assist with shelving, weeding, and boxing weeded materials as ...

Showing results 21-40

Circulation Assistant information

See California salary details

$9

$15

$24

How much do circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation assistant in California is $15.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Circulation Assistant vs Library Clerk?

AspectCirculation AssistantLibrary Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require customer service experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic clerical skills
Work EnvironmentPublic library, assisting patrons with borrowing and returning materialsLibrary or administrative setting, handling clerical tasks and patron inquiries
Job DutiesCheck out/in materials, manage holds, assist with library accountsRegister patrons, organize materials, perform clerical tasks

Both roles support library operations and require customer service skills, but Circulation Assistants focus more on managing borrowing processes, while Library Clerks handle administrative tasks. They often work together to ensure smooth library services.

What are some typical challenges a circulation assistant faces when managing high-traffic periods at the library?

During peak times, such as the start of semesters or community events, Circulation Assistants often manage large volumes of book checkouts, returns, and patron inquiries simultaneously. Balancing prompt customer service with accuracy can be challenging, as errors in checking materials in or out can affect inventory and patron records. Effective multitasking, clear communication, and familiarity with library management systems help Circulation Assistants maintain smooth operations even during busy periods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a circulation assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Circulation Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with library practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with integrated library systems (ILS), cataloging software, and basic office technology is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities help you interact effectively with patrons and colleagues. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring efficient library operations and a positive user experience.

What is a circulation assistant?

Circulation Assistants are library staff members responsible for managing the lending and return of library materials. They assist patrons with checking out and returning books, issue library cards, handle fines, and answer basic questions about library services. Circulation Assistants also help maintain the order of library materials and may perform clerical tasks such as shelving books or updating records. Their role is essential in ensuring smooth library operations and providing excellent customer service to library users.
What are the most commonly searched types of Circulation jobs in California? The most popular types of Circulation jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Circulation Assistant jobs in California? For Circulation Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Circulation Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Circulation Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,523 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Library Assistant I/II

County of Tuolumne

Sonora, CA • On-site

$17.32 - $22.06/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


County Of San Luis Obispo rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

510th of 842 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description **APPLY NOW. POSITION IS OPEN UNTIL FILLED** First review of applications: 7/29/2029 Interview date: 8/14/2026 Library Assistant I: $17.32 - 20.05 /hr. Library Assistant II: $18.15 - $22.06 .hr

Work schedule: Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Under general supervision, performs a variety of responsible complex sub-professional library work; provides general information and assistance to the public; participates in the activities of a specialized library function; and performs related work as required. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general supervision from the Library Director or Librarian I/II. Exercises no supervision over staff, but may provide technical or functional direction to clerical staff and volunteers.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS Library Assistant I: This is the entry-level class in the Library Assistant series and primarily performs duties and activities related to library materials processing, sorting, shelving, and retrieving. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence. Positions at the I level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods.

Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. Since this class is often used as a training class, employees may have only limited or no directly related work experience Library Assistant II: This is the journey-level class in the Library Assistant series.

Incumbents primarily perform routine circulation and customer service tasks at the Circulation Desk, including checking materials in and out, collecting fines and fees, and issuing library cards. Incumbents may also be required to interpret library policies related to the circulation of materials and to resolve customer issues within established policies. This class is distinguished from the Senior Library Assistant in that the latter is primarily responsible for the full operation of a function or branch of the library.

This classification may provide back-up coverage for Senior Library Assistants in the day-to-day activities of a branch. Examples of Duties (Illustrative Only) Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job. Performs circulation work, including checking materials in and out of the Library, maintaining circulation statistics, processing returned materials and preparing them for reshelving utilizing the library automation system.

Processes billing related to lost materials and overdue books; accepts and receives payments for overdue or lost materials and maintains related records utilizing the library automation system. Sorts books, cards, and related materials according to alphabetical, numerical, and categorical systems; collects, stacks, shelves, and reshelves library materials. Processes library card applications and issues library cards; maintains records of current patron information utilizing the library automation system.

Receives, researches, and responds to patrons' reference requests; locates and provides requested materials and information; assists and instructs patrons in the proper use of library equipment and reference sources including internet, electronic databases, and other technology devices. Reserves library materials and notifies patrons of their availability; initiates and processes inter-library loan requests. Performs basic cataloging of books and related library materials.

Monitors the condition of books and materials and performs necessary binding and repairs. Assists with the development of library collections, including ordering, purchasing, distribution and use of books and other materials in area(s) of specialization; reviews and recommends the acquisition of new materials for the Library's collection; identifies materials to be removed from the collection. Prepares library exhibits and displays.

Assists with library programming, including conducting classes, clubs, and special events. Participates in community events and outreach activities. Prepares signs, fliers, pathfinders, booklists, and other customer aides.

Assists in the development of a variety of library-related literature-based and educational programs and activities. Participates in meetings, committees, or projects intended to enhance services or promote consistent policies and procedures across the department. Participates in professional meetings, workshops, and conferences and continuing education programs as appropriate.

May exercise functional and technical supervision over assigned library clerical, part-time, and volunteer personnel. Assists in ensuring the proper maintenance and use of Library equipment. Library Assistant II's may substitute for Senior Library Assistants running a branch to cover vacations, illness, etc.

Performs other related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Knowledge of: Library Assistant I: Techniques for providing a high level of customer service to the public, volunteers, vendors, contractors, and County staff, in person, and over the telephone. Library operating principles, including confidentiality of customer information, freedom of information, and intellectual freedom.

Alphabetic and numeric systems for classifying and organizing library materials and principles Standard library practices and procedures including circulation. Applications of automated library circulation system. Basic record keeping principles and procedures.

Basic principles and practices of data collection and report preparation. Principles and procedures of record keeping. Basic arithmetic principles and cash handling.

Basic principles of supervision and training. Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work. English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.

Principles, practices, and techniques of effectively dealing with the public and public relations. Library Assistant II: (In addition to the above requirements) Library classification, cataloging, and bibliographic terminology. Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations.

Ability to: Library Assistant I: Accurately sort and organize library materials using alphabetical or numerical classification systems. Retrieve, shelve and relocate library materials. Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public.

Use English effectively to communicate orally and in writing. Understand and carry out oral and written instructions. Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.

Prepare and maintain accurate and complete records. Access, retrieve, enter, and update information using a computer terminal. Organize own work and set priorities within procedural guidelines.

Operate modern office equipment, including computer equipment and copy machines. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work. Perform routine clerical work, including maintenance of appropriate records, mathematical calculations, and compiling information for reports.

Library Assistant II: (In addition to the above requirements) Perform a variety of technical and clerical library work with speed and accuracy. Interpret, explain, and apply Federal, State, and District laws, codes, regulations, policies, and procedures. Organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.

Oversee the work of others. Education and Experience: Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be Library Assistant I/II: Equivalent to a high school diploma or GED.

Library Assistant I: One (1) year of responsible office experience. Library Assistant II: Two (2) years of college level coursework in library science, literature or related liberal arts field and one (1) year of library experience performing at the level of Library Assistant I in Tuolumne County. May substitute three (3) years of library experience performing at the level of Library Assistant I in Tuolumne County for college level coursework.

Licenses and Certifications: Must possess a California driver's license and have a satisfactory driving record.


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