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Circulation Clerk Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Joliet Public Library

Circulation Clerk

Joliet, IL

$17/hr

Basic Circulation Functions Starting pay is $17 and it's a 20 hours per week. * Execute opening and closing procedures successfully. * Perform circulation desk duties including checking materials in ...

Portage District Library

Circulation Clerk

Randolph, OH · On-site

$13.29/hr

Serves patrons by performing circulation duties, answering patron questions, working on special projects, and assisting in the Youth Service area as necessary. QUALIFICATIONS: High School Diploma or ...

ELKHART PUBLIC LIBRARY

Clerk I - Circulation

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$14.84 - $18.57/hr

SUMMARY The Circulation Clerk serves patrons by issuing library cards and maintaining registrations; handling all transactions related to the circulation of library materials, assisting in collection ...

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How much do circulation clerk jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation clerk in the United States is $16.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a circulation clerk?

Circulation Clerks are library staff members responsible for managing the circulation desk, which includes checking materials in and out, issuing library cards, handling returns, and assisting patrons with locating materials. They often answer basic questions about library services, enforce borrowing policies, and may help with shelving and organizing library materials. Circulation Clerks play a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of a library and providing quality customer service to library users.

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

To thrive as a Circulation Clerk, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library management systems, barcoding equipment, and basic office software is essential for daily tasks. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills help you interact effectively with patrons and staff. These abilities ensure efficient library operations, accurate record-keeping, and a positive experience for library users.

What are some common challenges faced by circulation clerks, and how can they be addressed?

Circulation Clerks often manage a high volume of patron requests, returns, and checkouts, which can lead to busy periods and the need for strong organizational skills. They may also encounter situations where they need to enforce library policies or resolve disputes over overdue materials. Effective communication, patience, and familiarity with the library's cataloging and circulation systems can help address these challenges. Collaborating with other library staff and staying updated on library technology are also key to providing excellent service and maintaining a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Circulation Clerk vs Library Assistant?

AspectCirculation ClerkLibrary Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer customer service experienceHigh school diploma; some roles may require basic library training
Work EnvironmentPublic library, handling checkouts, returns, and customer inquiriesLibrary setting, assisting with shelving, organizing, and patron support
Job DutiesManaging circulation desk, checking out/in materials, collecting finesSupporting library operations, shelving, and helping patrons

While both roles work in libraries and involve customer service, Circulation Clerks primarily focus on managing the checkout process and handling fines, whereas Library Assistants support broader library functions like shelving and patron assistance. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in specific duties and responsibilities.

How much does a circulation clerk make?

A circulation clerk typically earns between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the library or organization. They often work in environments that require strong organizational skills and familiarity with library management systems.

Who are the top companies hiring for Circulation Clerk jobs?

The top employers for Circulation Clerk jobs are:

What states have the most Circulation Clerk jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Circulation Clerk jobs?

For Circulation Clerk jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Circulation Clerk jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circulation Clerk job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 41% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,164 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Circulation Clerk

County of Bullitt Library Board

Louisville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist library patrons with checking out and returning materials, processing holds, and handling fines and fees.

  • Answer patron inquiries, assist with the use of the public catalog system, and provide basic readers advisory and reference services.

  • Perform tasks related to the organization and maintenance of library materials, including shelving, repairing, labeling, and managing collection usability.

Job description

The Circulation Clerk primarily works directly with Library patrons to meet their basic needs by furnishing a high level of customer service. The Circulation Clerk performs specialized tasks related to the circulation of library materials, answering patron inquires, handling money, scheduling meeting room assess, and other services. Duties may require independent judgment and act within specific parameters. The Library expects all employees to act in accordance with our Mission.
CORE VALUES
  • Adaptability. We are outwardly focused, service-oriented, and staffed by continuous learners.
  • Equality. We welcome all with the same measure of respect, warmth, and acceptance.
  • Accountability. We are an interdependent team holding ourselves mutually accountable for delivering results that are relevant to our community's needs.
  • Integrity. We embody these values in every aspect of our operation, building personal and institutional bridges which facilitate productive, trusting relationships.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION STATEMENT
We vow our commitment to advancing the Library's embrace of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognize our obligation to enhance the diversity of our collections, events, services, and staff. The Library aims to embody the tenets of social responsibility so that our actions bring about an improved quality of life for our patrons, our staff, and our community at large.
ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS
  • Working with the public in a friendly and courteous manner utilizing Library-approved customer service techniques.
  • Maintaining a working knowledge of Library policies and following them in a consistent manner.
  • Performing general desk duties including answering the telephone and directing calls, circulating library materials, processing holds, handling fine and fee payments, processing library card applications, scheduling and confirming meeting room reservations, recording statistical usage, and other similar responsibilities.
  • Assisting patrons in the use of the public catalog system and locating Library materials.
  • Assisting patrons with basic readers advisory and reference service.
  • Assisting patrons with basic computer needs.
  • Handling and processing books and other materials by unpacking boxes, emptying book drops, loading and unloading book trucks, performing basic repairs, putting on covers, sampling material, and applying labels.
  • Working with computers and interacting with Library-related software.
  • Filing and keeping records in order.
  • Maintaining collection usability by shelving/reorganizing materials according to Library policy.
  • Assisting with Library events.
  • Working job duties as scheduled and any other jobs assigned by the immediate supervisor.

Type of certification: "Paraprofessional" if classified as a "full-time" employee.
Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Basic computer experience with standard office software, including Microsoft Office products, email, and internet usage.

SKILLS AND CHARACTERISTICS
  • Ability to read and write.
  • Ability to communicate orally and in writing effectively.
  • Ability to work with the public.
  • Ability to work with staff in a team environment.
  • Filing skills, both alphabetical and numerical.
  • Math skills, including the ability to make change without a calculator.
  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and written directions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Standing, sitting, stooping, and walking.
  • Handling books and other Library materials.
  • Using computer input devices, including working extensive hours at the computer screen.
  • Visual acuity for near reading.
  • Mobility to help patrons and reach materials.
  • Employees may need to carry, push, pull, or lift up to 30 pounds.
  • Pushing and pulling book trucks up to 50-100 lbs.
  • Reaching above shoulder heights, below the waist, or lifting as required to file documents or store materials throughout the work day.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Climate controlled environment
  • Exposure to dust

WORK DEVICES
  • Computers and peripherals
  • General office equipment
  • Telephones
  • Book carts

This job description does not necessarily reflect all aspects of the job functions.
Bullitt County Public Library is an AA, EEO, and ADA employer.

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