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Circulation Assistant Jobs in Decatur, IN (NOW HIRING)

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Circulation Assistant information

See Decatur, IN salary details

$9

$15

$23

How much do circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation assistant in Decatur, IN is $15.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $16.25 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 Decatur, IN look for? The top searched job categories for Circulation Assistant jobs in Decatur, IN are:
What cities near Decatur, IN are hiring for Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, IN with the most Circulation Assistant job openings:
Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circulation Assistant job openings in Decatur, IN 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 $31,796 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Senior Library Assistant

Purdue University

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

308th of 615 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Senior Library Assistant
City: Fort Wayne
Job Description:
Join Purdue University Fort Wayne:
We are currently seeking a full-time, on-site Senior Library Assistant in our Library. This position blends hands-on work with digital archives with frontline service to students, faculty, and community members. The pay for this position is $17.00/hr.
Primary Responsibilities:
  • Upload and maintain digital assets (images, documents, etc.), create and correct metadata and transcriptions, ensure quality digitization, and troubleshoot issues in digital systems.
  • Assist patrons with circulation and reference services; answer basic to mid-level research questions.
  • Instruct users in effective search strategies and use of library databases.
  • Provide training and support for patrons using library equipment (computers, printers, microform readers, etc.) and specialized technology in the library.
  • Troubleshoot and report technology issues to library IT.
  • Train and schedule student employees; review their work for accuracy and quality; provide direction during shifts, including evenings and weekends.
  • Deliver courteous, professional assistance in person, online, and by phone.
  • Communicate library policies clearly; handle patron concerns and referrals to other departments.
  • Work with librarians, library IT, and other library staff on cross-departmental projects; contribute to special projects and initiatives that advance library services.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
  • HS Diploma/GED.
  • College course work- Experience will be accepted in lieu of education.
  • 2 yrs. exp required in computer skills, high level of customer service, and interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • Computer skills: Internet searching, Microsoft Office, and Adobe Photoshop abilities.
  • Other required skills: Active listening and effective written and oral communication skills, including communicating technical information to non-technical people.
  • Ability to interpret information, analyze, and solve problems.
  • Ability to be meticulous when needed.
  • Utilize time management skills to meet project deadlines.
  • Perform basic and routine bibliographical searches using diverse computer systems and networks.
  • Provide quality customer service.
  • Work as a team member and foster a cooperative work environment.
  • Able to self-motivate and quickly adapt to a changing environment, and to find solutions in a complex situation.
  • Flexibility of work schedule dictated by the university academic calendar and university holidays.
  • Work Schedule: Sunday noon - 9pm, Monday - Wednesday 8am - 5pm, Thursday noon - 9pm

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Library Science or Library and Information Science coursework, certificate, or degree.
  • Digital archives and library circulation and/or reference experience encouraged.
  • Work experience in an academic library or employment in an academic setting.
  • Experience supervising or training student employees.
  • Familiarity with digital archiving, digital asset management, and library management systems (such as ExLibris Alma/Primo and ILLiad).
  • Knowledge of library databases, basic search theory, the Library of Congress Classification system, library circulation policies, and familiarity with electronic library resources including library databases and basic library systems.
  • Ability to adapt to and learn new technologies strongly preferred.

Benefits:
  • Free tuition through Purdue University Global.
  • Fee remission for a traditional Purdue degree for yourself, your spouse, and your child(ren).
  • Insurance starts on first day of employment.
  • Generous Paid Time Off - additional PTO in December.
  • Additional benefit information: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/benewell/

Additional Information:
  • Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position.
  • Resumes and cover letters that contain portraits or personal information will not be reviewed by the hiring committee.
  • A background and misconduct check will be required for employment in this position.

Purdue Fort Wayne is an EEO/AA
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt

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