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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Circulation Desk Assistant information

What is a circulation desk assistant?

Circulation Desk Assistants are staff members in libraries who help with the day-to-day operations at the circulation desk. Their main responsibilities include checking books and other materials in and out, assisting patrons with library accounts, processing library cards, and answering basic inquiries. They may also help with shelving, maintaining records, and handling overdue items. Circulation Desk Assistants play a key role in providing customer service and ensuring the efficient flow of materials throughout the library.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a circulation desk assistant?

To thrive as a Circulation Desk Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and typically 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 effectively assist patrons and handle inquiries. These skills are crucial for maintaining smooth library operations and providing a positive experience for library users.

What are the main challenges a circulation desk assistant might face during busy periods, and how can these be managed?

During peak times, Circulation Desk Assistants often encounter long lines, high volumes of material check-ins and check-outs, and frequent patron inquiries. Managing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, the ability to multitask, and effective communication with both patrons and team members. Staying calm under pressure and prioritizing tasks—such as quickly processing returns and renewals while politely directing patrons to appropriate resources—can help maintain a smooth workflow. Team collaboration is essential, as colleagues often assist each other during rush periods to ensure excellent customer service.

What is the difference between Circulation Desk Assistant vs Library Clerk?

AspectCirculation Desk AssistantLibrary Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer customer service experienceHigh school diploma; customer service skills often preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic library circulation area, assisting patrons with checkouts and returnsLibrary front desk, handling patron inquiries, shelving, and administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and academic libraries, government agenciesPublic libraries, educational institutions, government libraries
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The Circulation Desk Assistant and Library Clerk roles share similar environments and credentials, often overlapping in customer service and administrative duties. While both work in libraries, the Circulation Desk Assistant primarily focuses on managing checkouts and returns, whereas the Library Clerk may handle broader administrative tasks and patron inquiries. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position in the library industry.

What are popular job titles related to Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Indiana?

For Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Circulation Desk Assistant job openings:

Circulation Desk Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circulation Desk Assistant job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Temporary | Circulation Assistant

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN • On-site

$17.50/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Provide staffing and support for library services at the Hesburgh Libraries Circulation Desk.

  • Process book returns, transfers, and hold requests, routing them to the appropriate location or department.

  • Assist patrons with the library catalog and provide directional assistance to library resources.

University Of Notre Dame rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

339th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Company Description

The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace! We are a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person-mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University's mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!

Job Description

The Circulation Assistant functions as a member of the User Services Department of Hesburgh Libraries.  The Circulation Assistant provides staffing and support for library services at the Hesburgh Libraries Circulation Desk, supporting library services such as circulation, resource sharing, and course reserves. The Circulation Assistant will be scheduled for shifts Monday - Wednesday and Sunday evenings. Additional shifts may be needed in order to meet operational needs. 

Key Responsibilities include:

  • Providing responsive customer service to library patrons (in person, by email or by telephone) according to established library guidelines and policies.
  • Processing book returns, transfers and hold requests, routing them to the appropriate location or library department.
  • Providing assistance with the library catalog and directional assistance to library resources.
  • Assisting other User Services teams;  Document Delivery, Reserves/Interlibrary Loan as needed.

Key Attributes for Success:

  • Attention to Detail: Exceptional analytical, conceptual, and problem-solving abilities
  • Service-Oriented: Strong commitment to providing innovative and responsive service
  • Collaborative: Fosters open communication and collaborative problem-solving; thrives in cross-functional team environments. 
Qualifications

Required qualifications:  

  • High school diploma or equivalent  

Preferred qualifications:

  • College or University level coursework  
  • 2-3 years experience working in a library or related field
Additional Information

Compensation: $17.50/hourly

This position will be accepting applications until August 31, 2026.

A resume and cover letter required to be considered for this position.

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.

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