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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Library Associate/Circulation

Elkhorn, WI · On-site

$18.95 - $19.72/hr

In addition, they will back up the Information Desk, have an overall knowledge of other Associate duties, assist in training new circulation staff and perform other library duties as assigned.

Library Associate/Circulation

Elkhorn, WI · On-site

$18.95 - $19.72/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition, they will back up the Information Desk, have an overall knowledge of other Associate duties, assist in training new circulation staff and perform other library duties as assigned.

Library Associate/Circulation

Elkhorn, WI · On-site

$18.95 - $19.72/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition, they will back up the Information Desk, have an overall knowledge of other Associate duties, assist in training new circulation staff and perform other library duties as assigned.

Hotel Operator

Fontana, WI · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

Will be cross-trained and assist as needed in Reservations and the Front Desk. * Assist with ... Comfortable ventilation with little circulation of air. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D ...

Library Services Assistant

Madison, WI · On-site

$20.96 - $22.43/hr

Student Help Desk - Libraries Madison College is seeking a Library Services Assistant to support ... Assists with physical and digital resource access and circulation of library materials. Facilitates ...

... desk tasks. Work is supervised by the Public Services Supervisor and a Public Services Assistant ... library's circulation software, adapt to changes Ability to work in a fast-paced environment ...

Library Clerk (Half-Time)

Appleton, WI · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

... desk tasks. Work is supervised by the Public Services Supervisor and a Public Services Assistant ... Ability to become proficient on library's circulation software, adapt to changes * Ability to work ...

Library Clerk (Half-Time)

Appleton, WI · On-site

$18.08 - $21.70/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • PTO

... desk tasks. Work is supervised by the Public Services Supervisor and a Public Services Assistant ... Ability to become proficient on library's circulation software, adapt to changes * Ability to work ...

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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 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Circulation Desk Assistant job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Library Associate/Circulation

City of Elkhorn

Elkhorn, WI • On-site

$18.95 - $19.72/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Summary of Job Under the supervision of the Circulation Supervisor, the Library Associate manages circulation desk routines, supervises and schedules the Library Assistants, and oversees activity at the Main Service Desk, including check out, registration of patrons, collecting fines & fees, check in and sorting, pulling library materials for the Pick List, and all the tasks of the Library Assistant. They will work with the library marketing coordinator in maintaining the library newsletter, the digital sign, and planning promotional displays. In addition, they will back up the Information Desk, have an overall knowledge of other Associate duties, assist in training new circulation staff and perform other library duties as assigned.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities Essential Duties and Responsibilities Performs Circulation duties such as checking library materials in and out using the online database. Assists the Circulation Supervisor in training, assigning job duties, and supervising Library Assistants and Shelvers on circulation tasks. Oversees shelving of all library materials in a timely manner.

With Circulation Supervisor, prepares a weekly work schedule and desk assignments for Library Assistants. Handles desk substitutions when needed. Sorts library materials on carts and prepares them for shelving; shelves as needed.

Registers patrons for library cards using the online database. Checks in delivery of materials from other libraries, empties book drops, prints the Pick List and pulls items for delivery and hold shelf. Answers directional and ready reference questions as well as more involved questions about databases, programs and other services.

Assists patrons with use of the photocopy machine, SHARE catalog, self-checkout machine, microfilm machine and other library equipment. Assists patrons with printing from the internet. Calculates and receives overdue fines, fax and other money, operates cash management system, uses the copy machine to scan and send faxes.

Performs reader's advisory services and related tasks like producing author bookmarks, read-alikes, shelf tags, etc. Provides backup at the Information Desk and assists with collection development. Assists in hiring and training new circulation staff.

Acts as departmental lead when Circulation Supervisor is gone. Performs opening and closing procedures. Maintains confidentiality of library patron information.

Acts as part of the marketing team in designing flyers, digital sign slides, and other promotional displays. Other duties include, but are not limited to: answering the telephone, planning and setting up displays, calling patrons about overdue materials, sorting and routing mail, registering patrons for programs, processing magazines, run report to clear hold shelf and other reports as needed, administrative duties, etc. Qualifications Education and Experience High school diploma required.

Familiarity with SirsiDynix or similar ILS is helpful. Familiarity with marketing tools such as Canva is helpful. Previous library experience preferred.

Applicants will be asked to: Provide a cover letter, resume, and 3 references. Complete an interview with the hiring committee, consisting of the Library Director, the Circulation Supervisor and other library staff or Library Board members Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge and Abilities Familiarity of library operations, services and procedures. Effective supervisory skills.

Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from patrons. Excellent communication skills in person, over the telephone and electronically. An approachable, friendly and helpful manner is essential.

Ability to develop and maintain a positive working relationship with co-workers and library patrons. Excellent customer services skills are required. Knowledge of basic computer skills including keyboarding and mouse skills, use of online library catalog, databases, Microsoft Office, and searching the internet.

Ability to operate basic office equipment such as photocopy machines, printers, scanners, telephones, cash register, etc. Ability to understand library policies and procedures and apply them to library operations. Ability to maintain a regular schedule including some daytime, evening and weekend hours.

Ability to work independently, organize and prioritize work, respond to varied/ changing work demands and stressful situations, and make decisions as needed.