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Circulation Desk Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Barry University

Circulation Assistant

Orlando, FL · On-site

Essential Functions: List up to ten essential functions 1. Assists patron at the Circulation Desk • Checking Library materials in and out, including reserve materials. • Following and ...

Barry University

Circulation Assistant

Orlando, FL

Responsible for Circulation desk activity when full time staff is unavailable. 40% of Time 2. Reshelves library materials in Reserve Collection or the Library's general collection on all three floors.

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How much do circulation desk jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation desk in the United States is $20.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Circulation Desk Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Circulation Desk Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of library operations, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS) such as Koha or Sierra, barcode scanners, and cataloging software is commonly required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities help in assisting patrons and handling inquiries efficiently. These skills ensure smooth library operations, accurate record-keeping, and a positive experience for library users.

What are circulation desk jobs?

Circulation desk jobs refer to positions in libraries where staff members assist patrons with borrowing, returning, and renewing library materials. People working at the circulation desk also handle tasks like checking library cards, managing fines, processing holds, and answering general questions about library services. These roles are vital for ensuring smooth library operations and providing excellent customer service to visitors. Circulation desk staff may also shelve returned materials and help maintain the organization of the library’s collection.

What is the difference between Circulation Desk vs Library Assistant?

AspectCirculation DeskLibrary Assistant
Primary RoleManage book checkouts, returns, and renewalsAssist with shelving, cataloging, and patron support
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require library certificationsHigh school diploma; relevant experience helpful
Work EnvironmentFront desk of library, customer service settingLibrary floors, shelving areas, and front desk
Employer & IndustryPublic, academic, or special librariesPublic, academic, or special libraries

While both roles support library operations, the Circulation Desk primarily handles book transactions and patron checkouts, whereas the Library Assistant performs broader tasks like shelving and assisting patrons. Both roles require similar credentials and work in the same environment, often overlapping in public and academic libraries.

Can you work at a library without being a librarian?

Yes, library circulation desk positions are typically staffed by clerks or assistants who do not need to be licensed librarians. These roles often require customer service skills and knowledge of library systems but do not require a master's degree in library science. Many libraries hire for these roles without librarian certification to handle tasks like checking out materials and managing overdue items.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian typically requires a master's degree in library science or information studies and relevant experience. Competition can vary depending on the location and type of library, but strong organizational skills and familiarity with library management systems improve chances of employment.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working at the Circulation Desk, and how can they be managed effectively?

Staff at the Circulation Desk often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of patrons during peak hours, resolving overdue or lost item disputes, and maintaining accuracy in checking materials in and out. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and familiarity with library management systems help address these issues. Additionally, teamwork and regular training ensure staff can provide efficient, courteous service and handle unexpected situations with confidence.

How much does a circulation clerk make?

A circulation clerk typically earns between $10 and $15 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $20,000 to $30,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the library or organization, and the role often requires basic computer skills and customer service abilities.

What does a circulation desk do?

A circulation desk worker manages the borrowing and returning of library materials, such as books and DVDs. They check items in and out, update records in the library management system, and assist patrons with account questions. The role often requires good customer service skills and familiarity with library software tools.
More about Circulation Desk jobs
What cities are hiring for Circulation Desk jobs? Cities with the most Circulation Desk job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Circulation Desk jobs? The most popular types of Circulation Desk jobs are:
What states have the most Circulation Desk jobs? States with the most job openings for Circulation Desk jobs include:
Circulation Desk jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circulation Desk job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,356 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Circulation Assistant

Circulation Assistant

Barry University

Orlando, FL • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Barry University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

165th of 560 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Part-time Circulation Assistants are hired for a variety of different jobs that include performing all Circulation
Desk activities, maintaining photocopiers, general filing, shelving, and completing special projects as
assigned by the supervisor.
Essential Functions: List up to ten essential functions
1. Assists patron at the Circulation Desk
• Checking Library materials in and out, including reserve materials.
• Following and implementing the library visitor policy.
• Maintaining the floor count and the sign in sheet.
• Responsible for Circulation desk activity when full time staff is unavailable.
40% of Time
2. Reshelves library materials in Reserve Collection or the Library's general collection on all three floors.
Participates in stack maintenance.
Assists in shifting the collection as needed.
Pre-shelves materials at the circulation desk.
15% of Time
3. Maintains photocopiers, including:
Clearing paper jams, filling paper drawers.
Assisting patrons in using copiers.
15% of Time
4. Files loose leaf titles received by the Law Library.
• Checks that reports are ready to be filed and reports any problems to Circulation staff members.
15% of Time
Position Description
Questionnaire
Essential Functions: List up to ten essential functions of the position in the space provided below,
indicating the most important first, and the approximate percentage of time spent on each function over the
course of a year. DO NOT list any duties or responsibilities that require 5% or less of the position's time.
5. Assists Circulation staff members in daily or special projects as needed; performs additional related
duties as assigned or required by the Dean.
15%
Must be a current Barry University School of Law student in good academic standing. Circulation staff must be
service oriented and have a helpful attitude and demeanor. Hours may include day or nighttime, weekdays or
weekends.
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
15
Benefits: Barry University offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees that includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, tuition assistance, paid time off and work/life balance initiatives such as wellness programs, spirituality in the workplace, and training and development.
Barry University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.

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