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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 Jun 23, 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 jobs pay $400 an hour?

Jobs that pay $400 an hour are typically highly specialized roles such as experienced surgeons, anesthesiologists, corporate lawyers, or top-tier consultants. These positions often require advanced education, extensive experience, and certifications, and they may involve consulting, legal advising, or medical procedures performed in high-demand environments.

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.

Is AI replacing librarians?

AI is not replacing circulation assistants or librarians but is increasingly used to support tasks such as cataloging, data management, and customer service. Human skills like interpersonal communication, critical thinking, and decision-making remain essential in library roles. AI tools can enhance efficiency but do not substitute the need for trained library staff.

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Circulation Assistant typically does not earn $10,000 a month without a degree; most entry-level roles in this field pay significantly less. High-paying jobs that can reach such income levels without a degree often include roles like sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades, which require experience, certifications, or specialized skills rather than formal degrees.

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?

A circulation assistant is a library or bookstore employee responsible for managing the borrowing and returning of materials, registering new members, and maintaining the circulation desk. They often use library management software and need good customer service skills. The role typically involves part-time hours and may require basic knowledge of library operations.

What are Circulation Assistants?

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 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
Senior Library Assistant

Senior Library Assistant

Purdue University

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

$15.75/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 134 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

263rd of 539 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Req Id: 42627
Job Title: 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 serves as the evening and weekend shift lead, ensuring smooth front-line operations and high-quality service for students, faculty, staff, and community patrons. The pay for this position is $15.75/hr.
Primary Responsibilities:
  • Performs as shift lead for evenings and weekends, acting as responsible employee for issues with staffing, customer service, and building problems.
  • Leads front line service in a timely, accurate, and effective manner to PFW students, faculty, staff, and residents of Indiana, providing circulation assistance, and demonstrating a courteous, professional attitude to all patrons.
  • Processes ingoing and outgoing materials requested through the Purdue fulfillment network and InterLibrary Loan on evenings and weekends, and functions as back-up for the Document Delivery Services Department.
  • Handles patron complaints and concerns, and communicates existing policy and procedures to internal and external patrons.
  • Leads opening and closing procedures.
  • Provides functional supervision of student employees through training, deployment to specific service points, review of activities for accuracy and correctness, and allocation of tasks.
  • Aids in the physical movement of materials in the building, such as shelving and shifting materials.
  • Answers the Library phone and IM chat, providing mid-level reference assistance, directional information, scheduling, and referrals.
  • Instructs patrons in use of microform reader/printers, computers, printers, and other equipment, and troubleshoots basic mechanical problems.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • 2 yrs. exp required in computer skills, high level of customer service, and interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • Maintain reliable attendance and report to work on time, and adapt to a work schedule dictated by the university academic calendar.
  • Knowledge and effective use of computer applications and equipment.
  • Effective written and oral communication, including communicating technical information to non-technical people.
  • Active listening, and ability to interpret information, then quickly analyze and solve problems.
  • Exceptional customer service, self-motivation, time management, and task prioritization.
  • Work as a team member and foster a cooperative work environment.
  • Ability to quickly adapt to a changing environment.
  • Ability to assist in physical movement of materials in the building.
  • Schedule: Sunday-Thursday, Noon-9pm.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Library Science or Library and Information Science coursework, certificate, or degree.
  • Library circulation and/or reference experience, and work in an academic library or employment in an academic setting.
  • Familiarity with and knowledge of library databases, basic search theory, the Library of Congress Classification system, library circulation policies, and electronic library resources.
  • Experience with library management systems such as ILLiad, OCLC, Ex Libris's Alma and Primo.

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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