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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools

Media Support

Savage, MN · On-site

$21.05 - $24.35/hr

Manage the circulation desk and process the circulation of library resources. * Assist with circulation, shelving, and maintaining the correct arrangements and general appearance of books and ...

New

Anoka County, MN

Supervisor, Library

Blaine, MN · On-site

$64K - $90K/yr

This role plays a key part in fostering a welcoming environment, coordinating circulation and ... desk, or walking/standing to assist patrons. * Physical activity may include repeated bending ...

New

All JobsCirculation Desk JobsCirculation Desk Assistant JobsCirculation Desk Assistant Jobs in Minnesota

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 the most commonly searched types of Circulation Desk jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Circulation Desk jobs in Minnesota are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Circulation Desk Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circulation Desk Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Media Support

Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools

Savage, MN • On-site

$21.05 - $24.35/hr

Full-time

Medical

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Position Type:
Paraprofessional
Date Posted:
8/19/2026
Location:
Glendale Elementary
Date Available:
08/31/2026
Closing Date:
08/26/2026
JOB TITLE:
Media Support
REPORTS TO:
Building Principal or designee
FLSA:
Non-Exempt
START DATE: August 31, 2026
HOURS/DAY: 7.5 hours/day, 4 days/week
RATE OF PAY: $21.05/hour - $24.35/hour, Category C (2025-26 rate)
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that stands out among school districts:
  • Health Insurance: A rich health plan that provides extensive coverage for you and your family, ensuring peace of mind.
  • Dental Insurance: Full coverage options for routine and preventive care, keeping your smile bright and healthy.
  • Life Insurance: Protect yourself and your loved ones with a robust life insurance plan
  • An Employee Assistance Program, free to employees and their family members
  • Optional medical and dependent care flexible spending account

To learn more about our benefits and eligibility, visit our webpage for new employees.
Terms of employment per the Minnesota School Employees Association Non-Certified Student Support Personnel (MSEA) collective bargaining agreement.
SUMMARY:
To provide a well-organized, smoothly functioning media environment by supporting student and staff reading and research needs, managing circulation operations, maintaining library resources, and ensuring a positive, orderly media center.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
This class specification lists the major duties and requirements of the job and is not all-inclusive. Incumbent(s) may be expected to perform job-related duties other than those contained in this document and may be required to have specific job-related knowledge and skills.
  • Manage the circulation desk and process the circulation of library resources.
  • Assist with circulation, shelving, and maintaining the correct arrangements and general appearance of books and materials.
  • Inventory, process, and shelf new library materials.
  • Send overdue notices and assist with regular inventory processes.
  • Assist with the supervision of students in the media center to maintain a safe, orderly, and respectful environment.
  • Assist library users, including students, faculty, and administration, with their reading and information needs.
  • Collaborate with teaching and literacy staff to ensure the media center serves as an effective resource.
  • Assist with maintaining up-to-date library procedures.
  • Present as a professional and supportive member of the school community.
  • Promote positive interactions, teamwork, and respectful communication with students, staff, and administrators.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Education and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Previous experience working in a library, media center, or educational setting preferred.

Required Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:
Continued employment is contingent upon all required licenses and certificates being maintained in active status without suspension or revocation.
  • N/A

Required Knowledge:
  • Effective online search techniques and utilization of online digital tools.
  • Basic understanding of library organization, classification, and circulation procedures.
  • District policies and procedures, including confidentiality requirements regarding students.

Required Skills:
  • Strong planning, organizational, and time-management skills with high accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Willingness to adopt, use, and train in new technologies and evolving library trends.
  • Ability to interact positively with students and staff and work effectively as part of a flexible team.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Mobility and stamina to work in an indoor media center environment; ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and move for extended periods; strength to lift, carry, push, and pull book carts and library materials weighing up to 20 30 pounds; visual acuity to read titles, labels, and monitor student activity; hearing and speech capabilities to interact effectively with students and staff; and mental alertness to manage schedules, organize resources, and maintain a structured learning environment.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed primarily indoors within a school library/media center space.

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