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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$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 ...

Catalog the collections * Assist in the selection of instructional materials for the reading curriculum in grades PreK-8th * Manage the circulation desk, including check-outs, renewals and ...

Catalog the collections * Assist in the selection of instructional materials for the reading curriculum in grades PreK-8th * Manage the circulation desk, including check-outs, renewals and ...

Phlebotomist/Front Desk

Reston, VA

$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 ...

Showing results 21-40

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?

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 20% Full Time, and 80% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Library - Associate III

Library Systems & Services LLC

Manassas Park, VA • On-site

$19/hr

Part-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
JOB SUMMARY
This is for a programming Library Associate 3 position, the selected candidate will mainly be working on Adult and Senior Programs. The primary responsibility is to assist the librarian with planning and facilitating library programs and/or volunteer coordination. Additional responsibilities include staffing the circulation desk, providing excellent customer service, handling and overseeing the opening of accounts, placing holds, processing interlibrary loans, handling fines, processing lost materials and problem-solving patron accounts.
This position is for an LA3
Hours worked per week: 24
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITES
An individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily.
  • Provides customer service to patrons by welcoming patrons, providing tours and assisting patrons in all areas of the library
  • Work closely with Librarians and library management to plan, implement and promote programming activities, with a focus on Adult Services
  • Work closely with Librarians and library management to plan, implement, and attend outreach services around the community
  • Inform library patrons of rules of conduct as necessary, and enforce those rules when appropriate
  • May maintain circulation records and oversee the mailing of library materials to patrons in homebound or other programs
  • Supports Circulation Desk by assisting with answering patron questions, issuing library cards, checking in/out materials, and managing patron accounts
  • Process damaged materials to ensure collections are maintained in a good condition
  • Assist with library opening and closing procedures
  • Act as Person in Charge (PIC) when library management or librarians are not available
  • May coordinate volunteers and assign duties, providing necessary training
  • May supervise junior Library Associates which includes managing performance, evaluation, interviewing/hiring, training and approving timesheets
  • Other duties as assigned

Requirements
JOB REQUIREMENTS
An individual should possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed and meet the amount of education, training and/or work experience required.
  • H.S. Diploma or GED required, Bachelor's degree preferred
  • Three years library experience preferred
  • One year supervisory experience preferred
  • Proficiency with library systems and databases
  • Excellent communications skills, both written and verbal
  • Multilingual speaking is a plus
  • A high degree of proficiency in MS Office suite including Excel, Word and PowerPoint is desired
  • Excellent customer service skills

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to frequently move from place to place within the location; file and retrieve books and other items on high shelves.
  • Lift/push up to 25 pounds and occasionally up to 35 pounds. of heavy boxes, books, and equipment; work in confined spaces; walk; bend; stoop; reach; and climb.

Benefits
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness Resources

EEO STATEMENT
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.
Salary Description
$19.00