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Circulation Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Library Associate/Circulation

Elkhorn, WI · On-site

$18.95 - $19.72/hr

Summary of Job Under the supervision of the Circulation Supervisor, the Library Associate manages circulation desk routines, supervises and schedules the Library Assistants, and oversees activity at ...

Circulation Clerk

Randolph, OH · On-site

$13.29/hr

Library Associate I Wages and terms of employment are covered by the collective bargaining ... Serves patrons by performing circulation duties, answering patron questions, working on special ...

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Circulation Associate information

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How much do circulation associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation associate in the United States is $15.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a circulation associate?

Circulation Associates are library staff members responsible for managing the borrowing and returning of materials, such as books, DVDs, and other resources. They assist library patrons with checking items in and out, issuing library cards, collecting fines, and answering basic questions about library services. Circulation Associates also help maintain the organization of the library's materials and may assist with shelving or processing new items. Their role is essential in ensuring that library operations run smoothly and patrons have a positive experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a circulation associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Circulation Associate, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic computer proficiency, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), barcode scanners, and cataloging software is commonly required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities help you efficiently assist patrons and handle daily library operations. These skills ensure smooth circulation processes, positive patron experiences, and effective resource management within the library.

What are some common challenges a circulation associate may face, and how can they be addressed?

Circulation Associates often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of checkouts and returns during peak hours, handling overdue or lost items, and assisting patrons with diverse needs. Effective time management, attention to detail, and clear communication are key to overcoming these challenges. Collaborating closely with team members and utilizing library management systems efficiently can also help ensure smooth daily operations and enhance the overall library experience for patrons.

What cities are hiring for Circulation Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Circulation Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Circulation jobs?

The most popular types of Circulation jobs are:

What states have the most Circulation Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Circulation Associate jobs include:

Infographic showing various Circulation Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,955 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Library Associate/Circulation

Elkhorn, WI • On-site

$18.95 - $19.72/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Summary of Job Under the supervision of the Circulation Supervisor, the Library Associate manages circulation desk routines, supervises and schedules the Library Assistants, and oversees activity at the Main Service Desk, including check out, registration of patrons, collecting fines & fees, check in and sorting, pulling library materials for the Pick List, and all the tasks of the Library Assistant. They will work with the library marketing coordinator in maintaining the library newsletter, the digital sign, and planning promotional displays. In addition, they will back up the Information Desk, have an overall knowledge of other Associate duties, assist in training new circulation staff and perform other library duties as assigned.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities Essential Duties and Responsibilities Performs Circulation duties such as checking library materials in and out using the online database. Assists the Circulation Supervisor in training, assigning job duties, and supervising Library Assistants and Shelvers on circulation tasks. Oversees shelving of all library materials in a timely manner.

With Circulation Supervisor, prepares a weekly work schedule and desk assignments for Library Assistants. Handles desk substitutions when needed. Sorts library materials on carts and prepares them for shelving; shelves as needed.

Registers patrons for library cards using the online database. Checks in delivery of materials from other libraries, empties book drops, prints the Pick List and pulls items for delivery and hold shelf. Answers directional and ready reference questions as well as more involved questions about databases, programs and other services.

Assists patrons with use of the photocopy machine, SHARE catalog, self-checkout machine, microfilm machine and other library equipment. Assists patrons with printing from the internet. Calculates and receives overdue fines, fax and other money, operates cash management system, uses the copy machine to scan and send faxes.

Performs reader's advisory services and related tasks like producing author bookmarks, read-alikes, shelf tags, etc. Provides backup at the Information Desk and assists with collection development. Assists in hiring and training new circulation staff.

Acts as departmental lead when Circulation Supervisor is gone. Performs opening and closing procedures. Maintains confidentiality of library patron information.

Acts as part of the marketing team in designing flyers, digital sign slides, and other promotional displays. Other duties include, but are not limited to: answering the telephone, planning and setting up displays, calling patrons about overdue materials, sorting and routing mail, registering patrons for programs, processing magazines, run report to clear hold shelf and other reports as needed, administrative duties, etc. Qualifications Education and Experience High school diploma required.

Familiarity with SirsiDynix or similar ILS is helpful. Familiarity with marketing tools such as Canva is helpful. Previous library experience preferred.

Applicants will be asked to: Provide a cover letter, resume, and 3 references. Complete an interview with the hiring committee, consisting of the Library Director, the Circulation Supervisor and other library staff or Library Board members Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge and Abilities Familiarity of library operations, services and procedures. Effective supervisory skills.

Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from patrons. Excellent communication skills in person, over the telephone and electronically. An approachable, friendly and helpful manner is essential.

Ability to develop and maintain a positive working relationship with co-workers and library patrons. Excellent customer services skills are required. Knowledge of basic computer skills including keyboarding and mouse skills, use of online library catalog, databases, Microsoft Office, and searching the internet.

Ability to operate basic office equipment such as photocopy machines, printers, scanners, telephones, cash register, etc. Ability to understand library policies and procedures and apply them to library operations. Ability to maintain a regular schedule including some daytime, evening and weekend hours.

Ability to work independently, organize and prioritize work, respond to varied/ changing work demands and stressful situations, and make decisions as needed.