1

Circulation Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ability to assist patrons in a tactful and courteous manner both in person and on the telephone ... Standing is frequent when at the circulation desk. Gripping is involved when writing with pen or ...

Ability to assist patrons in a tactful and courteous manner both in person and on the telephone ... Standing is frequent when at the circulation desk. Gripping is involved when writing with pen or ...

$20/hr

The Part Time Assistant will be responsible for performing multiple Sierra-based functions ... Daily Circulation activity reports * Patron PIN reset requests * Daily post notice cleanup ...

Library Clerk

Hampton, VA

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Harvey Library invites applications for the position of Library Assistant- Circulation (Evenings). The position follows the following schedule during fall and spring semesters- Sunday- Thursday 4pm ...

Library Clerk

Hampton, VA · On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

Harvey Library invites applications for the position of Library Assistant- Circulation (Evenings). The position follows the following schedule during fall and spring semesters- Sunday- Thursday 4pm ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Circulation Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$15

$24

How much do circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation assistant in Virginia is $15.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.68 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 are the most commonly searched types of Circulation jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Circulation jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Circulation Assistant job openings:
Circulation Desk Assistant

Circulation Desk Assistant

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Circulation Desk Assistant

The Law Library Circulation & Reserve Department's mission is to ensure that all library patrons find the materials they need in the proper location, quickly and easily, and that they receive prompt, knowledgeable, and friendly assistance with all circulation services.

The Circulation Desk Assistant:

  • Works as part of a service-oriented team that greets patrons at the front desk of the library.
  • Checks-out circulating library materials using an integrated library system (ILS).
  • Interprets library policy and procedures to answer questions from students, faculty, staff, and the public, using good judgment to make sound decisions.
  • Obtains materials for patrons from various library collections, or places holds or recalls as necessary to retrieve checked-out items. Searches for missing material.
  • Checks-in, sorts, and shelves materials. Some stacks management projects.
  • Maintains patron records in the ILS, updating information, and monitoring overdues.
  • Communicates clearly with patrons and staff via phone, email, and in writing, in a Windows/Microsoft Office environment.
  • Works with and directs student assistants in policies and procedures.
  • Retrieves loose leaf services from stacks and completes assigned filing, following complex instructions, while monitoring circulation activities.
  • Processes materials for course reserves at the request of faculty, and processes and delivers other material in the library and law school, as needed.
  • Conducts cash and debit transactions from patrons, including photocopies, overdue fines, and fees for borrower's cards. Performs record keeping, data entry, and submits deposits and receipts.
  • Assists patrons in the use of library photocopiers, scanners, and printers.
  • Participates in staff training and staff development activities, and performs other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and make decisions without direct supervision.
  • Demonstrated ability to follow complex written instructions.
  • Demonstrated ability to learn new computer programs and operating systems.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior library experience.
  • Experience handling cash transactions.
  • Knowledge of and experience in an office environment using Microsoft Office programs.
Conditions of Employment
  • This is a part-time, hourly position limited to an average of 25 hours per week with limited benefits after one year of employment based on a minimum of 1,000 hours per calendar year.
  • All hourly employees are subject to the limitations of the Virginia Manpower Control Program and total hours worked may not exceed, on average, 29 hours per week over the course of a twelve-month period beginning May 1 each year.
  • This position is eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act. This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc., as directed and approved by the supervisor.
  • Must be able to maintain confidentiality of patron records and security of library systems.
  • Physical requirements: Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds; push a cart full of books or hand truck with boxes; as well as reaching, stooping, kneeling, and climbing.
  • Set schedule is: Summer: The schedule is more flexible with Sunday afternoons 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM and 4-6 hours weekday mornings or afternoons; Academic year: Sunday – Tuesday 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Wednesday 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Hours may be changed slightly due to department needs.
Job Duties

45% Circulation Materials Management:

Checks-out circulating library materials using an integrated library system (ILS). Interprets library policy and procedures to answer questions from students, faculty, staff, and the public, using good judgment to make sound decisions. Obtains materials for patrons from various library collections, or places holds or recalls as necessary to retrieve checked-out items. Searches for missing material. Checks-in, sorts, and shelves materials. Some stacks management projects. Reports problems and communicates regularly with the supervisor.

15% Customer Service:

Maintains patron records in the ILS, updating information, and monitoring overdue items. Communicates clearly with patrons and staff via phone, email, and in writing, in a Windows/Microsoft Office environment. Works with and directs student assistants in policies and procedures. Processes materials for course reserves at the request of faculty, and processes and delivers other material in the library and law school, as needed.

15% Filing:

Retrieves loose leaf services from stacks and completes assigned filing, following complex instructions, while monitoring circulation activities.

10% Payment Processing:

Conducts cash and debit transactions from patrons, including photocopies, overdue fines, and fees for borrower's cards. Performs record keeping, data entry, and submits deposits and receipts.

10% Equipment Management:

Assists patrons in the use of library photocopiers, scanners, microfilm readers, and printers. Helps maintain library equipment, adding paper or toner as necessary and clearing paper jams. Reports problems.

5% Other Duties:

Participates with library staff in training/staff development activities. Assists with special projects and performs other duties as assigned.

Pay: Up to $19.89 an hour commensurate with experience.