... desk at Irwin Library. This position supervises the IC student assistants, provides circulation and basic references services, and oversees the safety of the building's resources and occupants. This ...
... desk at Irwin Library. This position supervises the IC student assistants, provides circulation and basic references services, and oversees the safety of the building's resources and occupants. This ...
Library Assistant II
Indianapolis, IN · On-site
Helps with summer reading desk. * Assists in collection management activities including general ... Evaluates items for circulation and fixes/deletes/sends items to proper department for thorough ...
Library Assistant II
Indianapolis, IN · On-site
Helps with summer reading desk. * Assists in collection management activities including general ... Evaluates items for circulation and fixes/deletes/sends items to proper department for thorough ...
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 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 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 is the difference between Circulation Desk Assistant vs Library Clerk?
| Aspect | Circulation Desk Assistant | Library Clerk |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer customer service experience | High school diploma; customer service skills often preferred |
| Work Environment | Public library circulation area, assisting patrons with checkouts and returns | Library front desk, handling patron inquiries, shelving, and administrative tasks |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Public and academic libraries, government agencies | Public libraries, educational institutions, government libraries |
| Common Search & Comparison Intent | Yes | Yes |
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:
Part-time
Posted 5 days ago
Butler University rating
6.8
Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
477th of 618 rated colleges and universities
Job description
Under the direction of the Head of Public Services, the Information Commons Weekend Associate supports weekend operations of the Information Commons (IC) desk at Irwin Library. This position supervises the IC student assistants, provides circulation and basic references services, and oversees the safety of the building's resources and occupants. This role is intended for students enrolled in a graduate-level program.
Work Schedule:
Friday 4-8pm
Saturday 12-5pm
Sunday 12-4pm
Position Responsibilities:
- Serves as the non-undergraduate student in charge of monitoring the safety and security of the building and its patrons. Is aware of and follows campus procedures in emergency events. Assists with the training and support of Information Commons student assistants in the circulation and basic reference functions of the Information Commons service point. This includes providing guidance concerning material and equipment checkout, basic research inquiries, and use of in-house equipment such as computer lab computers, microfilm readers, and photocopiers.
- Monitors library opening and closing procedures.
- Troubleshoots circulating laptop computers, iPads, cameras, and other equipment.
- Understands and applies the principles, policies, and procedures regarding user privacy in library services.
- Assists the Information Commons program with other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications:
A bachelor's degree, plus current enrollment in a graduate degree
Preferred Qualifications:
Graduate students seeking experience in an academic library or academic setting
Expectations:
Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
Comply with University standards and policies.
Ensure confidentiality of information.
Butler University is a private, nationally recognized comprehensive university encompassing seven colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Pharmacy & Health Sciences and Founder's College. Approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 1,000 graduate and doctoral students are enrolled at Butler, representing 46 states and 24 countries.
Join us at the crossroads of tradition & transformation. A career at Butler University offers more than just a job-it's an opportunity to join a dedicated, innovative, and supportive community grounded in equity, academic excellence, and meaningful impact. Aligned with Boldly Butler, our strategic plan, faculty and staff play a vital role in delivering transformational learning experiences, enriching our campus and community, and ensuring a thriving Butler for generations to come.
Butler University is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of age, sex, race, religion, color, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected category.
What Butler University employees say
Pay
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Butler University
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Company size
501 - 1,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Indianapolis, IN, US
Year founded
1855