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Circulation Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Wheaton College

AY Ast-Circulation

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$15/hr

Circulation Library Assistant Access Services invites Wheaton College undergraduate and graduate students to apply for the Circulation Library Assistant position for the 2026-27 academic year. Shifts ...

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All JobsCirculation JobsCirculation Assistant JobsCirculation Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Circulation Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$25

How much do circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation assistant in Chicago, IL is $16.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $17.36 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Circulation jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Circulation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Circulation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Circulation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Circulation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Circulation Assistant job openings:
Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circulation Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,948 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Circulation Assistant - Nichols Library

Naperville Public Library

Naperville, IL • On-site

Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Salary: $16/Hr.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Circulation Assistant provides consistent, accurate, and timely handling of Library materials for circulation. Contributes to the general order and care of facilities and Library materials.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Performs all circulation and shelving activities for the library, including check-in and review of materials, files and maintains the Hold shelves, clears lobby and drive-thru return bins, processes and sorts new materials, prepares materials for transit, unloads and shelves book carts, updates item record status, records statistics, completes reports, assists with shifting projects and shelf reads.
  • Performs workroom opening and closing tasks following departmental procedures.
  • Prepares book drops for daily, weekend and extended closures.
  • Performs paging list fulfillment, generates Hold lists, pulls and files materials, maintains the Holds area, reviews and processes Holds, and reconciles problem items.
  • Reviews and processes LINKin and Inter Library Loan items.
  • Reviews materials, routes damaged and mislabeled items to appropriate departments, ensuring the quality of the collection; addresses non-Library returned items.
  • Supports curbside service and used materials/donations.
  • Assists with lost and found materials following guidelines.
  • Monitors, collects and returns materials to appropriate public areas ensuring an orderly environment.
  • Keeps up to date with departmental and Library communications.
  • Responds on occasion to customer requests, referring to appropriate Library staff; assists with monitoring conduct within the library, alerts PIC (Person-in-Charge) if necessary.
  • Troubleshoots and completes appropriate paperwork for workroom and material issues.
  • Collaborates on programs/projects with staff, occasionally at other locations.
  • Completes Library training and attends professional development opportunities.
  • Performs other related duties and special projects as assigned.


KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

  • Ability to use basic relevant computer programs such as Microsoft Office and Outlook.
  • Uses computer software and common office equipment to complete tasks; keeps current in relevant technology.
  • Interacts with customers and staff courteously, skillfully and with accuracy.
  • Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication in responding to customers and staff.
  • Uses problem solving skills in determining priorities, finds timely solutions to departmental or system wide issues.
  • Service oriented with the ability to establish, support, and maintain effective relationships with staff/customers.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills; completes assignments and projects in a timely manner.
  • Takes responsibility for consistent completion and follow-up on all tasks/assignments.
  • Maintains confidentiality and professionalism in situations.
  • Responsive to change and demonstrates adaptability.
  • Maintains a positive approach in tasking and in adverse situations.
  • Demonstrates a broader understanding of the job and suggests improvement in Library services and workflow.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum two years of customer service experience.
  • Bilingual proficiency a plus.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Communicate with staff and customers in person, via email and over the phone.
  • May require either being in a stationary position or moving about for prolonged periods.
  • Repetitive tasking, standing, bending for extended periods of time may be possible.
  • Moves equipment or library materials weighing up to 50 lbs.
  • Must have reliable means of transportation to attend meetings, conferences, and perform work in other locations.



BENEFITS

The benefits for this position include:

  • Annual Vacation Accrual: 2 weeks per year
  • Holidays: 7 days per year
  • Annual Sick Accrual: 12 days per year
  • Up to 5 Personal Days per calendar year prorated based on the hire date.
  • Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (Pension Plan)
  • 12 weeks paid parental leave
  • Training and developmental opportunities

WORK SCHEDULE:

Monday OFF

Tuesday 5 - 9 p.m.

Wednesday 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.


Friday 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

2 back-to-back weekends/mo.

(Sat & Sun) 1 - 5 p.m.



To learn more about us, go tohttps://www.naperville-lib.org/jobsandDiversity, Equity & Inclusion | Naperville Public Library, IL (naperville-lib.org)