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Circulation Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Reference Assistant

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$42K - $44K/yr

... Assistant to join our Reference Team. This position will report to the Archivist for Reference ... Experience with library circulation tracking systems and searching material descriptions

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Circulation Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$13

$21

How much do circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation assistant in Michigan is $13.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.30 and $14.66 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 are Circulation Assistants?

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 cities in Michigan are hiring for Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Circulation Assistant job openings:

BTPL- Circulation Assistant Department Head

Bloomfield Township

Bloomfield Township, MI

$32.31 - $45.23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Bloomfield Township Public Library is looking for an enthusiastic, attentive Assistant Department Head in Circulation committed to providing high-quality public library service. Bloomfield Township Public Library is a class V library with a service population of 44,000+ people and an $11 million annual operating budget. There is strong community support for the Library, its collections, services, and the programs offered. The Library promotes inclusivity in the diverse collections and programs available to all ages and abilities. Technology is integrated into library services. The successful candidate will have a strong commitment to providing quality public service and the desire to work in a collaborative team environment.

POSITION TITLE: Assistant Department Head, Circulation


DEPARTMENT: Circulation, reporting to the Circulation Department Head

HOURS:

Full-time, 37.5 hours weekly. Includes evenings and weekends on a flexible basis. Paid time and a half on Sundays.

WAGE & BENEFITS:

$32.31-$45.23 per hour, with an increase upon successfully completing a 90-day orientation period. Paid time-off benefits include vacation, sick, personal business, holiday, emergency time, and paid parental leave. Health Insurance, Dental and Optical Insurance, Term Life and Disability Income Insurance provided. Defined contribution retirement plan and retiree health savings plan offered. Employee assistance program (EAP). Eligible for deferred compensation and other voluntary benefits. Professional membership and opportunities to participate in professional development are also available.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

PUBLIC SERVICE:

  • Provides positive, pleasant professional service to the public.
  • Assists Department Head in supervision of all aspects of the Circulation Department, including scheduling and supervises department in the absence of the Department Head.
  • Assists in the development and implementation of library policies and procedures.
  • Processes money transactions, reconciles reports, and performs related circulation tasks.
  • Assists patrons with understanding their library card accounts.
  • Uses current technologies for communication.
  • Performs opening and closing procedures for the Circulation desk.


PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT:

  • Maintains knowledge of state-of-the art technologies and best practices for circulation in a public library.
  • Participates in professional organizations; seeks opportunities for professional growth and development.

DUTIES MAY INCLUDE:

  • Checks out and in materials from the Library collection and MeL.
  • Counts opening cash tills and balance closing cash tills.
  • Processes patron registration information and verifies accuracy of patron database.
  • Discusses notes on patron records with patrons, explaining and resolving any issues.
  • Explains residency requirements to obtain library cards.
  • Troubleshoots the automated material handling machine.
  • Works with the Department Head and staff to coordinate projects.
  • Hires and supervises Library Assistant I's and Pages, including training, scheduling, performance evaluation, and workflow.
  • Attends Management Advisory Committee meeting in absence of Department Head.
  • Serves as person-in-charge to respond to emergencies and resolve patron issues.
  • Contributes statistical reports related to department operations.
  • Other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

MINIMUM:

  • Minimum of three years' public library experience.
  • High school diploma.
  • Strong customer service skills.
  • Strong skills in using Windows-based computers, Microsoft 365, database searching, downloadable resources, and the internet, as well as cash registers.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and writing skills.
  • Proven interpersonal skills to work effectively with staff in a team environment.
  • Ability to interpret and analyze qualitative and quantitative data.
  • Able to lift, push, and/or pull at least 20 pounds; ability to visually review materials and discern vocal and audible tones with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Dependable and flexible work habits.
  • Strong desire to serve the Library in a positive manner.

DESIRED:

  • Considerable knowledge and experience in Circulation.
  • Supervisory experience.
  • Some coursework in Library Technical Services and Circulation.

APPLICATION: Due Monday, June 15. Start date: late July.

MUST INCLUDE:

  • Resume
  • Cover letter
  • Completed library online application form. To apply, click on the "apply for this job" button on the top right.


Careers

Bloomfield Township Public Library

1099 Lone Pine Road

Bloomfield Township, MI 48302

248-642-5800

Fax: 248-642-4175

Email: careers@btpl.org

We spark curiosity and imagination by connecting the community

to resources, technology, and support. For more information about the Library, visit our website at www.btpl.org

Bloomfield Township Public Library provides equal employment opportunities to qualified persons without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, political views, age, disability, marital status, height, weight, or any other prohibited basis.