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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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

... 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

$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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-25

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 Clerk (Half-Time)

GovernmentJobs.com

Appleton, WI • On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Description

The Appleton Public Library, the Wisconsin Library of the Year for 2025, is seeking a Library Clerk (Half-Time) to join our dynamic team.

The City of Appleton is seeking a Library Clerk (Half-Time). This is a non-exempt benefited position that involves working at a public service desk providing library services related to lending library materials, as well as performing off-desk tasks. Work is supervised by the Public Services Supervisor and a Public Services Assistant Supervisor.

Examples of Duties

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Provide courteous and efficient customer service at a service desk: Checkout library materials, register patrons, handle routine questions
  • Accurately communicate library policies and procedures to the public
  • Computer data entry and database maintenance through the library automation system
  • Provide directional assistance
  • Provide basic computer and printing help
  • Answer telephone calls from public or route appropriately
  • Collect fines and fees, accurately key such transactions into a cash register
  • Check in and sort materials; accurately route or mail items owned/requested by other libraries
  • Magnetize/demagnetize materials
  • Monitor security gates
  • Check shelves for materials prior to billing, claimed returned, etc.
  • Maintains regular punctual and predictable attendance, works overtime and extra hours as required.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Retrieve materials on reserve for patrons or other libraries and route them accordingly
  • Prepare bills and overdues for mailing, distribute intra-office mail
  • Call other local libraries/media stores to make them aware that their materials have been returned to the library
  • Check email and internal internet sites to stay up-to-date on policies and procedures
Typical Qualifications

A high school diploma or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the following knowledge, abilities and skills:

  • Knowledge of general library services and practices
  • Good organizational skills, ability to sort materials in alphabetical and numerical order
  • Tactful and courteous communication skills
  • Computer skills: turning on/off, soft reboot, mouse, keyboarding, saving a file, email
  • Ability to become proficient on library's circulation software, adapt to changes
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work as a team member, maintaining effective relationships with co-workers
  • Ability to stand and walk for several hours at a time
  • Ability to lift at least 30 lbs.; push a loaded book cart (200 lbs.) on carpeting
  • Ability to read fine print (font sizes of 8 or larger)
  • Ability to hear the library's security gate alarm, computer alerts, a normal speaking voice
  • Ability to speak Spanish or Hmong would be beneficial but is not required
Supplemental Information

COMPETENCIES Communication Customer Focus Handling Difficult People Problem Solving Adaptability/Flexibility