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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Performs circulation desk procedures and direct patron services, such as checking in and borrowing ... Advise and assist patrons in selecting, locating, and utilizing library resource materials through ...

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Performs circulation desk procedures and direct patron services, such as checking in and borrowing ... Advise and assist patrons in selecting, locating, and utilizing library resource materials through ...

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

CON # 27020 & 27021 Duties and Responsibilities Performs circulation desk procedures and direct ... Advise and assist patrons in selecting, locating, and utilizing library resource materials through ...

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Performs circulation desk procedures and direct patron services, such as checking in and borrowing ... Advise and assist patrons in selecting, locating, and utilizing library resource materials through ...

Babson College

Supervisor, Access Services

Babson Park, MA · On-site

$30.96 - $34.40/hr

Coordinates and conducts training for Student Information Assistants in circulation/reserves/holds ... IT Service Desk. * Directs and oversees student employees in utilizing the Library Services ...

Babson College

Supervisor, Access Services

Wellesley, MA

$30.96 - $34.40/hr

Coordinates and conducts training for Student Information Assistants in circulation/reserves/holds ... IT Service Desk. * Directs and oversees student employees in utilizing the Library Services ...

Babson College

Supervisor, Access Services

Wellesley, MA · On-site

$30.96 - $34.40/hr

Coordinates and conducts training for Student Information Assistants in circulation/reserves/holds ... IT Service Desk. * Directs and oversees student employees in utilizing the Library Services ...

All JobsCirculation Desk JobsCirculation Desk Assistant JobsCirculation Desk Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA

Circulation Desk Assistant information

See Boston, MA salary details

$10

$17

$26

How much do circulation desk assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation desk assistant in Boston, MA is $17.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 popular job titles related to Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Boston, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Circulation Desk Assistant job openings:

Circulation Desk Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circulation Desk Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, and 54% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,802 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Library Circulation Assistant

Town of Needham

Needham, MA • On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

The Town of Needham is seeking passionate, dedicated individuals to fill two (2) full time vacancies for the position of Library Circulation Assistant at the Needham Free Public Library. Under the direction of the Library Circulation Supervisor, this position provides direct patron services at the circulation desk for library card registration, borrowing/returning of materials, and assists with general patron questions. The ideal candidate will have exemplary customer service and communication skills, an interest in supporting and building a culture of inclusion for patrons of all ages, and a commitment to serve the Needham community. 

It is an exciting time to join the Needham Free Public Library team! Our Strategic Plan and Annual Action Plans position the library to continue to meet the community’s needs for years to come. In addition, our recent Library Space Utilization Study reimagines the library’s interior space in four phases to enhance the work we do for our patrons and the community with our newly opened 4,000-square-foot Teen Room being the first phase. Along with diverse collections, plentiful programming, and great services, the Needham Free Public Library is on track to be the go-to place for new and current library workers.


#1 Circulation Assistant

Schedule: 37.5 hours / week

  • Mondays: 12:30-9:00 p.m.
  • Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 8:45 a.m.-5:15 p.m.
  • Thursdays and Fridays: 9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
  • Every fourth Saturday with the Preceding Friday Off: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.


#2 Circulation Assistant

Schedule: 37.5 hours / week

  • Mondays and Thursdays: 8:45 a.m.-5:15 p.m.
  • Tuesdays: 12:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
  • Wednesdays and Fridays: 9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
  • Every fourth Saturday with the Preceding Friday Off: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.


Applications will be accepted until 11:59 AM on September 8, 2026.


CON # 27020 & 27021




  • Performs circulation desk procedures and direct patron services, such as checking in and borrowing of materials, emptying book drop, retrieving mail, registering patrons for library cards, collecting monies, assisting with general questions, and explaining and enforcing library policies.
  • Advise and assist patrons in selecting, locating, and utilizing library resource materials through knowledge of print materials, computerized catalog, electronic databases, and the Library of Things. 
  • Ensures the smooth daily operation of lending or borrowing materials via the Minuteman Library Network, Commonwealth Catalog, and OCLC by processing requests, managing reports, and maintaining holds shelves. 
  • Assists in collection maintenance including weeding, orderliness, moving materials, and helping with displays.
  • Provides guidance and training to part-time library assistants and volunteers as required and answers questions in the absence of the Circulation Supervisor.
  • Supports Library initiatives through cross-departmental work, community outreach efforts, and communication with vendors, organizations, and other Town departments.
  • Creates a welcoming environment for all patrons by ensuring library policies and procedures are followed. 

The following requirements may be substituted by any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job:


  • Extensive technical or specialized training such as that which would be acquired by an Associates Degree or two years of technical or business school.
  • One (1) to three (3) years relevant experience.
  • Knowledge of general public library policies, procedures, and best practices.
  • Ability to provide information and assistance effectively to patrons while ensuring high customer service standards.
  • Skill in technology, including the application of office software and web applications in support of Departmental operations. 
  • Skill in effective verbal and written communication with internal and external stakeholders including patrons of all ages, Library staff, and other Town employees.

The Town of Needham is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and encouraging workplace. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, age, gender, national origin, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, veteran status, or any other protected class. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.


For general employment inquiries, please contact us at personnel@needhamma.gov. 


The Town of Needham will endeavor to provide reasonable accommodation to a qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you believe you require such assistance to complete this form or to participate in an interview, please contact us at tswanson@needhamma.gov. 



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