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Circulation Assistant Jobs in Cleveland, TN (NOW HIRING)

Circulation Assistant information

See Cleveland, TN salary details

$7

$13

$20

How much do circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation assistant in Cleveland, TN is $13.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.87 and $14.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Circulation Assistant jobs in Cleveland, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Circulation Assistant jobs in Cleveland, TN are:

What cities near Cleveland, TN are hiring for Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Cleveland, TN with the most Circulation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Circulation Assistant job openings in Cleveland, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,572 per year, or $13.3 per hour.

Library - Associate III - Youth Services

Library Systems & Services LLC

Ooltewah, TN • On-site

$16.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 hours ago


Job description

Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Library Associate 3 role is the senior role in the Library Associate job family and may supervise Junior Library Associates. The primary responsibility is programming and at the circulation desk, providing excellent customer service. A portion of the Library Associate 3 job may also be to plan and facilitate library programs and/or volunteer coordination. For this position we are seeking an individual with genuine enthusiasm for children, and a warm/approachable personality.

Hours worked per week:  40 

Note:  This is a set schedule that will require working weekends and evenings.


PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITES

An individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily.  


Plans and implements programming for youth of all ages:

  • Develops plans and activities for programming to encourage the use of the library for all ages, including early literacy programs
  • Designs and facilitates youth craft projects for programs and events
  • Conducts and participates in school and community outreach and special events
  • Collaborates with Friends of the Library, the city of Collegedale, and local businesses on events
  • Creates printed and digital content for youth programs in Canva for marketing and posting on the website and social media sites
  • Records event attendance for monthly program statistics

Plans and implements Summer Reading Program: 

  • Develops plans and activities for ages 0-12
  • Assist with donor outreach, fundraising campaigns, and grant development.
  • Selecting and Ordering books and prizes


  • Assists with Collection tasks such as annual inventory, weeding and interlibrary loan
  • Maintains Youth area in the library with regards to posters, book displays, and passive programming
  • Assists with large-scale youth events including, but not limited to, End of Summer Reading Party, Annual Escape Room, and Christmas in Collegedale.
    Serves as staff supervisor on their scheduled weekends and evenings.
  • Knows and understands the American Library Association's Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement and Freedom to View Statement, recognizing that freedom of access is a fundamental tennet of a public library. In addition to these freedoms, support client discretion of materials available at your local library.
  • Serves at the circulation desk checking items out, creating library card accounts, and answering questions as assigned
  • Other duties as assigned

Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS

An individual should possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed and meet the amount of education, training and/or work experience required.

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
  • Experience in teaching or programming with children 
  • Computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office 
  • Provides excellent customer service 
  • Good communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule that may include a combination of days, evenings and weekends


Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to frequently move from place to place within the location; file and retrieve books and other items on high shelves. 
  • Lift/push up to 25 pounds and occasionally up to 35 pounds. of heavy boxes, books, and equipment; work in confined spaces; walk; bend; stoop; reach; and climb.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental, and Vision)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness Resources

EEO STATEMENT

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. 

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. 

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.