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Circulation Assistant Jobs in Mobile, AL (NOW HIRING)

Circulation Assistant information

See Mobile, AL salary details

$7

$12

$18

How much do circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation assistant in Mobile, AL is $12.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.86 and $12.79 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 the most commonly searched types of Circulation jobs in Mobile, AL?

The most popular types of Circulation jobs in Mobile, AL are:

What are popular job titles related to Circulation Assistant jobs in Mobile, AL?

For Circulation Assistant jobs in Mobile, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Circulation Assistant jobs in Mobile, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Circulation Assistant jobs in Mobile, AL are:

What cities near Mobile, AL are hiring for Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Mobile, AL with the most Circulation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Circulation Assistant job openings in Mobile, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $25,069 per year, or $12.1 per hour.

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Library Assistant

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Shelving library materials (books, DVDs, CDs, etc.)
  • Keep library materials in order; learn how to use the Dewey Decimal System and other organizational and filing systems in use.
  • Clean and mend returned materials.
  • Assist in preparing new materials for check out.
  • Assist with special programs; registration, preparing handouts and programs, decorating, set up room, break down and clean up room, help manage crowds, lead children or other participants to designated area or room, greet participants as they arrive, etc.
  • Backup at circulation as needed: Check in materials, check out materials, take patron registrations, answer telephone, call patrons to alert them that requested materials have arrived, take patrons to needed resources within the library, etc.
  • Miscellaneous other duties as needed.

Work is performed in accordance with the Regional Library Board of Trustees approved policies and procedures and other directives as issued by the Branch Manager and Library Director.

External candidates for this position must complete (1) Application for Employment, (2) Pass the Computer/Internet skills, Cash transaction, and Alphabetizing and Numerical sequence exam.

This position is subject to a six-month probationary period with performance evaluations conducted by the Manager periodically during this period. Thereafter, performance evaluations are conducted annually, or as needed, by the Branch Manager and reviewed by the Assistant Director, Branch Services and the Library Director.

The primary work site for this position is the East Central Public Library, 21801 Slider Rd, Moss Point, MS 39562 (Hurley, MS). Performance of duties may require work at other library sites, contingent on the needs of the Library System. The work schedule may include day, evening and Saturday shifts. Schedule may vary from time to time in accordance with specific needs and interests of the Library and the Library System as determined by the Branch Manager and/or the Director.

Requirements:

  • Must be 18 years old or older with high school diploma or GED.
  • Must have dependable transportation to and from work and be able to report to work as scheduled.
  • Must be able to follow instructions and work cooperatively with other staff members.
  • Must be able to work mornings, evenings, and Saturday as scheduled.
  • Must be able to work up to 18 hours per week.
  • Must have good communication skills, both orally and written.
  • Must have good public service skills.
  • Must have good computer skills and have the ability to learn new computer applications.
  • Must be able to pay attention to details and perform duties accurately and in a timely manner.
  • The person holding this position must be physically capable of standing for long periods, have the ability to hear, bend, stoop, push, pull, squat, crouch, reach above shoulder level, and lift and move objects up to 25 pounds.
  • Must attend training sessions assigned.
  • Must adhere to all JGRLS personnel policies and procedures. (Personnel manual will be provided)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Candidates that have a JGRLS library card.
  • Candidates with previous work experience involving providing goods or services to the public.