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Circulation Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Library Assistant

Larkspur, CA · On-site

$26.83 - $35.96/hr

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Apply circulation policies to assist patrons with the checkout, renewal, and check-in of library materials. * Perform end-processing of Library physical materials, including labelling and creating ...

Apply circulation policies to assist patrons with the checkout, renewal, and check-in of library materials. * Perform end-processing of Library physical materials, including labelling and creating ...

Apply circulation policies to assist patrons with the checkout, renewal, and check-in of library materials. * Perform end-processing of library physical materials, including labeling and creating ...

Supervising Library Assistant

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$80K - $98K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Circulation Opening Date: 08/10/2026 Closing Date: 8/24/2026 5:00 PM Pacific is a small city with a ... As a Supervising Library Assistant, you will play a crucial role in leading positive changes. You ...

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Circulation Assistant information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$11

$19

$30

How much do circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation assistant in Berkeley, CA is $19.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $20.62 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 job categories do people searching Circulation Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Circulation Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Circulation Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Circulation Assistant job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,351 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Circulation Technician - Temporary

Samuel Merritt University

Oakland, CA • On-site

$29/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description:
Job Description Summary:
The Circulation Technician - Temporary provides weekday and weekend staff coverage for the library circulation desk. Performs routine clerical and technical tasks under the supervision of full-time library staff.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform ILL duties (includes requests for document delivery and electronic searches; records statistics on library usage.)
  • Provide routine check-in and check-out of items using manual and automated systems and respond to simple information requests from patrons at the circulation desk. Assist patrons in using library catalog, and audiovisual systems.
  • Do routine technical troubleshooting.
  • Perform all acquisitions duties (including ordering books for the library, processing orders, and receiving.
  • Handle and record money transactions for document delivery, copy, cards, and fines.
  • Maintain a neat, functional, and safe library environment.
  • Maintain photocopy machines with paper, toner replacement, and clearance of paper jams.
  • Report problems to the library staff.
  • Process new library materials.
  • Sort and distribute departmental mail.
  • Process material for mailing.

Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of routine library operations
  • Ability to deal courteously and effectively with the public
  • Must have excellent communication skills and ability to work with diverse groups of people
  • Ability to work with accuracy and great attention to detail
  • Accurate typing and word processing skills
  • Good problem-solving skills
  • Effective troubleshooting with computers, copiers, and printers
  • Excellent literacy skills

Education and/or Experience
  • High school diploma or general education (GED)
  • Library experience and/or training, preferably community college level or higher

Work Environment:
Office Location: Oakland Campus - Onsite
  • This is an onsite position based in Oakland, CA, requiring regular in-office presence to support daily operations, collaboration, and student or team engagement.
  • Work is performed primarily on campus in a dynamic academic environment, with direct interaction across multidisciplinary teams.
Employee Status:
TemporaryExemption Status:
United States of America (Non-Exempt)Time Type:
Full timeJob Shift:
Pay Range:
Up to $29.00 [hourly/non exempt], depending on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other relevant factors.
Samuel Merritt University currently provides base salary ranges for all positions-on job advertisements-in the United States based on local requirements. Individual compensation will ultimately be determined based on a variety of relevant factors including but-not limited to qualifications, geographic location, and other relevant skills.