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Circulation Assistant Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Circulation Assistant information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$8

$14

$22

How much do circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation assistant in Columbia, SC is $14.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $15.58 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 are popular job titles related to Circulation Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Circulation Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Circulation Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Circulation Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Circulation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Circulation Assistant job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,488 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Library Services Specialist - Elgin

Kershaw County

Camden, SC • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Library Services Specialist
Hours: 15-25 hours per week, to include Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, alternating Saturdays, and other hours as needed.
Location: This position is primarily based in Elgin, however, work in other library
locations and outreach events may be required on occasion.
Summary of position:
We're seeking a friendly, cheerful, self-motivated learner to perform a wide variety of
general library work, including direct patron assistance, daily operations (such as
processing, circulation, and shelving of library materials), and assistance with patron
programs and workshops.
Minimum requirements of the position:
• High school graduate or GED
• At least two years of customer service or clerical work experience
• Ability to work well both independently and with a team
• Excellent communication and decision-making skills
• Basic technical/computer skills, including email, web searching, and the ability to
learn the library checkout software. Ability to assist patrons with the use of
library computers, copy and printer equipment, software, and electronic
resources
• Ability to perform physical functions of the position, primarily including but not
limited to standing for extended periods at the checkout desk, lifting books,
pushing book carts, and stooping to assist patrons
Job responsibilities:
• Performs circulation desk activities, including greeting patrons, processing
materials, processing library fines, registering new patrons, processing lost cards
and address changes, answering the phone, and other customer service-related
tasks needed.
• Maintains library public areas in a clean, orderly fashion, cleaning computer
stations and performing general cleaning and/or organizing tasks as assigned.
• Communicate effectively, courteously, and professionally with all library patrons,
guests, co-workers, and supervisors.
• Shelve books and maintain the library collection as assigned.
• Explains/instructs in the use of library technology/information systems
• Prepares the library for opening and/or closing
• Participates in staff meetings and trainings
• Maintains accurate records in the library database
• Assists with and/or conducts patron programs and workshops
• Assists supervisors with special projects
• Other tasks as assigned
Working conditions:
Work is performed primarily in a library environment, while standing at a
counter/computer terminal for extended periods. Use of computer hardware and
software is a major portion of the position. Physical exertion may be required to retrieve
and/or move library materials from various locations, such as overhead and from the
floor. Sufficient vision or other powers of observation are essential to permit the
employee to read, sort, and shelve library materials.
**Resumes are ONLY accepted as an attachment to a completed application**
Kershaw County Employment Applications are only accepted for positions that are posted.
Employment Applications should ONLY be submitted within the posting dates
and must be submitted by 5:00 pm on the closing date.
Applications should ONLY be submitted to:
Attn: Applications
Kershaw County Government Center
515 Walnut Street
Camden, SC 29020
OR
Any branch of the SC Department of Employment and Workforce
Kershaw County is an equal opportunity provider and employer. It is the policy of Kershaw County to recruit, hire, train, and promote employees on the basis of qualifications and without discrimination because of race, religion, color, political affiliation, physical disability, national origin, sex, age, or familial status. Kershaw County is a Drug-Free Workplace.