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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ability to assist patrons in a tactful and courteous manner both in person and on the telephone ... Standing is frequent when at the circulation desk. Gripping is involved when writing with pen or ...

Library Assistant

Newport News, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $19.50/hr

Position Summary The Library Assistant is responsible for the daily opera-tion of the library ... The work primarily involves the circulation desk functions. Some other duties may include ...

$15.30/hr

Live Here! Work Here! Part-time-Library Assistant-Youth Services-First Colony * Assist the ... the circulation desk, or helping out at other reference desks. Complete assigned shelf-reading ...

Phlebotomist/Front Desk

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22/hr

Perform and assist with extended scope duties such as, but not limited to non-blood specimen ... Master our technology suite including, but not limited to Slack, G-suite, Zoom, Circulation ...

Phlebotomist/Front Desk

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22/hr

Perform and assist with extended scope duties such as, but not limited to non-blood specimen ... Master our technology suite including, but not limited to Slack, G-suite, Zoom, Circulation ...

Phlebotomist/Front Desk

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

Perform and assist with extended scope duties such as, but not limited to non-blood specimen ... Master our technology suite including, but not limited to Slack, G-suite, Zoom, Circulation ...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Circulation Desk Assistant job openings in Virginia 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.

Library Clerk (Circulation)

York County

Yorktown, VA • On-site

$40K - $47K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Check library materials in and out, register patrons, and update patron records.

  • Collect overdue fines, fees, and money from various sources, and prepare daily reports.

  • Assist patrons with using library equipment, handle inquiries, and oversee the closing of the library at the end of the day.


York County (South Carolina) rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

594th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description Responsible for performing paraprofessional responsibilities in the Circulation section of the Library. Performs a variety of clerical tasks in assisting library patrons and maintaining library materials and records including checking library materials in and out, collecting overdue fines, shelving materials, and providing limited reference assistance to library patrons. Job responsibilities may include any of the following, depending on the incumbent's functional assignment.

This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of job functions, but a representative sample of the type and level of work that is expected in this position. Performs a variety of tasks at the circulation division, including checking library materials in and out, registering patrons, updating patron's records, preparing daily automated reports; and collecting overdue fines and fees; counts money in cash drawers. Answers telephone and receive inquiries, providing information or referring caller to proper officials, as appropriate.

Takes requests for reserved materials; acts on computer report of outdated "hold" requests; contacts patrons regarding items returned with missing materials or damages to returned materials; applies determined charges to patron's record. Assist patrons in use of library equipment, such as computers, copiers, and other equipment. Collects money for Friends of the Library items; collects money from copiers; performs a daily count report.

Reads shelves; collects requested items and pulls expired holds. Assists with statistical record keeping. Assists with training and supervision of less experienced workers.

Oversees pages and community service workers when supervisor is unavailable. Closes and locks building at the end of the workday. Minimum Qualifications Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school.

This job is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment checks to include criminal history and background checks. Supplemental Information General knowledge of PCs, Windows, MS Office products, and the Internet. General knowledge of standard office practices and procedures.

General knowledge of basic mathematics to include addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. General knowledge of business English, depending on the particular assignment. Some knowledge of procedures and practices common to a public library system.

Some knowledge of record keeping and reporting. Attention to detail. Ability to assist patrons in a tactful and courteous manner both in person and on the telephone.

Must be able to work a continual floating schedule as needed. Must be able to work nights and weekends when required. Physical Demands Must be physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including computers, typewriters, copiers, calculators, etc.

Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally, and to push library carts frequently. There is frequent stooping and bending involved. There is some climbing onto step stools when shelving materials.

Standing is frequent when at the circulation desk. Gripping is involved when writing with pen or pencil and when using mouse while on the computer. For a more detailed description: View Document To view our Total Compensation Calculator, click here.


What York County (South Carolina) employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

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