1

Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs in Cheney, WA (NOW HIRING)

Circulation Desk Assistant information

See Cheney, WA salary details

$9

$16

$26

How much do circulation desk assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation desk assistant in Cheney, WA is $16.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.65 and $17.69 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 job categories do people searching Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Cheney, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Cheney, WA are:

What cities near Cheney, WA are hiring for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs?

Cities near Cheney, WA with the most Circulation Desk Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Circulation Desk Assistant job openings in Cheney, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,622 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Public Services Associate

Spokane Valley, WA

Spokane County Library District
Libraries and Archives • 51 - 200 employees

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

General Purpose: With moderate supervision and working within established procedures, this position provides direct service to library customers. Illustrative Examples of Duties and Responsibilities: Oversees circulation services, determines priorities, and directs and monitors workflow. In the absence of the Operations Assistant, may assist the Operations Supervisor in scheduling staff, assigning tasks and monitoring the work flow of the circulation area in a resource library. Provides service to customers. Issues/renews library cards and updates customer information using the library"s automated system; Performs readers" advising and information services in response to customer inquiries. Instructs customers in the basic use of library equipment and technology, including, but not limited to, logging in and out of public computer and printing stations, accessing library account information and paying fines and fees online, searching the library catalog and placing holds, searching online databases, and using online learning tools. May assist customers in the use of tablets, e-readers, and other personal technology. Receives and processes money for the payment of fines and fees. May perform cash reconciliation as assigned. Responds to customer inquiries regarding library services and operations; resolves routine complaints; refers inquiries or issues to other departments or staff as appropriate. Inspects returned materials for damage. May assess damage charges and complete the customer billing process. Processes and prepares materials for shipment; processes items for holds pickup. Reserves meeting rooms and/or Internet computer stations for customers. May perform storytimes and host library programs, as needed. May serve as Person-In-Charge in the absence of supervisory staff. May use common off-the-shelf products to clean library materials and equipment. May participate in visits to adult care facilities, including preparing materials, checking materials out to customers on the visit, and driving the District van. Performs other related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications: Required
~ Associate"s degree
~ Three years customer service experience

Preferred
~ Bachelor"s degree
~ One year customer service experience in a library setting

The District may accept an equivalent combination of education and experience in lieu of the above requirements. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of: - ~ Library services and resources.
~ Proper cash handling procedures. Skill in: - ~ Use of computer systems and various software programs, including ILS. Ability to: - ~ Communicate effectively with staff and others, both orally and in writing
~ Consistently demonstrate effective customer service behavior(s);
~ Interact in a professional and respectful manner with District staff and the public;
~ Maintain confidentiality of customer information;
~ Establish and maintain effective working relationships in a team environment;
~ Use initiative, problem-solving skills, and sound judgment;
~ Work quickly and accurately; follow directions; meet deadlines. Work Environment/Physical Demands: Work is performed primarily in a library environment while sitting/standing at a desk or counter for extended periods of time. This position requires frequent public contact. Moderate stress may be encountered due to heightened library activities or intense customer interactions. The noise level is usually moderate. An individual performing the duties in this position may be required to sit or stand for long periods of time, lift or move up to 40 pounds and/or push and/or pull objects weighing 50-100 pounds on a wheeled cart or book truck. Special Requirements: • Background & Driver's license record checks required.
• Must have valid driver’s license and required mandatory insurance when operating a privately owned vehicle for business purposes.

• Must be able to travel to various locations to perform work, and/or attend work-related meetings, workshops or conferences.

• May be required to drive a District vehicle to other locations to perform work. Valid driver’s license required when driving District vehicle. $16.35 - $21.51