1

Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Circulation Desk Assistant information

See Madison, WI salary details

$9

$15

$24

How much do circulation desk assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation desk assistant in Madison, WI is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $16.97 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 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 popular job titles related to Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Madison, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Circulation Desk Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Circulation Desk Assistant job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,206 per year, or $16 per hour.

Library Services Assistant

Madison College

Madison, WI • On-site

$20.96 - $22.43/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Current Madison College employees must apply to the internal career site by logging into Workday
Job Posting Date:
August 9, 2026
Application Deadline:
Salary Information:
$20.96 - $22.43
(For current employees, pay may not be restricted to the posted range and will be set in accordance with the Madison College Compensation Manual guidelines for internal salary placement.)
Department:
Student Help Desk - Libraries
Job Description:
Madison College is seeking a Library Services Assistant to support library services at Goodman South Campus locations. This position plays an important role in daily library operations by providing front-line, student-centered support to online and walk-in students, assisting with circulation, academic research, technology troubleshooting, wayfinding and access to digital and physical resources.
The Library Services Assistant serve as an important point of contact for students and provide para-professional support to librarians, Student Achievement Centers and special projects as needed. Success in this role requires strong communication skills, flexibility, proficiency with academic technologies and the ability to help students locate, navigate, evaluate and cite information resources.
In this role, the Library Services Assistant may work non-traditional hours, including evenings and weekends, and primarily provide coverage during evenings and other lower-traffic service periods to ensure students continue to have access to library and technology support when needed.
Position Details:
Schedule: This is a part-time position offering a 4-day work schedule, 20 hours per week, 42 weeks per year.
During the academic year, the required schedule includes:
  • Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Three evenings per week (Monday-Thursday), with shifts ending at 6:00 p.m.

During the summer, staff adjust their hours accordingly:
  • Monday-Thursday: 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
  • Friday: 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Schedule can be flexible during operational hours; Staff work together to determine a schedule that provides the needed coverage while accommodating staff availability whenever possible. Extended hours until 6:30 or 7:00pm during the week before the fall and spring semesters.
Madison College believes every team member brings unique perspectives and experiences that enhance our ability to understand and engage with the communities we serve, address challenges, and develop innovative solutions. Come be part of our great team!
This position will be open until filled with the first review date of August 23,2026 at 11:59 pm. After this date, the recruitment may close without further notice.
Required Documents (3):
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Response to Supplemental Question

Madison College serves students from many different cultures, and Spanish is a first language for many of our students. While Spanish-language proficiency is not required for this position, we are asking this question to better understand applicants' language abilities as one factor in our evaluation process.
Supplemental Question:
In one sentence, please select the option that best describes your Spanish-language proficiency:
  • I do not speak or understand Spanish.
  • I have basic Spanish proficiency (limited conversational ability).
  • I have intermediate Spanish proficiency (can communicate effectively in many workplace situations).
  • I am fluent in Spanish (can speak, read, and write proficiently).
  • Spanish is my native or primary language.

*Failure to include these documents by the first consideration date will result in the disqualification of your application.
Accountabilities:
  • Provides research and academic technology support to help students develop information and digital literacy skills.
  • Troubleshoots academic technology issues including access to and usage of learning management systems, student accounts, software, equipment, and videoconferencing tools to ensure students can effectively access systems and engage with coursework.
  • Assists with physical and digital resource access and circulation of library materials. Facilitates checkouts, returns, interlibrary loans, deliveries and equipment loans.
  • Ensures an accessible and supportive learning environment by upholding policies, resolving space usage concerns and maintaining availability of resources and equipment.
  • Supports outreach and engagement efforts by assisting with marketing, event planning and promotional materials to increase awareness of services and programs.
  • Collaborates on projects and quality improvement initiatives by contributing to planning, implementation and evaluation of efforts that enhance student support services.
  • Performs other related duties within the scope of the position as required for the efficient operation of the division and to support institutional objectives.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Knowledge of academic library services, circulation procedures and reference best practices.
  • Knowledge of academic technologies (e.g. learning management systems, course software, library management systems and resources, productivity software, equipment, videoconferencing products)
  • Skill in gauging and developing information and digital literacy skills with users of varying abilities, backgrounds, and experience levels.
  • Knowledge of academic research methods and information literacy principles.
  • Skill in using library databases, digital resources and integrated library systems.
  • Ability to manage multiple processes, meet deadlines and maintain accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to provide effective customer service and resolve concerns, including helping students effectively connect with other college services and resources and referring appropriately.
  • Skill in engaging positively with all populations and communities, contributing to a safe and inclusive learning and work environment.
  • Skill in effectively and respectfully communicating with others.

Minimum Requirements:
Education:
  • Associates degree or equivalent relevant work experience. *Experience used as an equivalent of an educational requirement is in addition to any experience required by the position.

Work Experience:
  • 0-2 years of relevant professional work experience.

Madison College does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term.
If you are experiencing application issues, please contact us at the Talent Acquisition email Talent@madisoncollege.edu or HR hotline (608) 246-6900.
To ensure that emails from us regarding your application do not go to your spam folder, please add the @madisoncollege.edu domain as a safe sender in your email.
Madison Area Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in employment, admissions or its programs or activities. Madison College offers degrees, diplomas, apprenticeships and certificates in Architecture & Engineering; Arts, Design & Humanities; Business; Construction, Manufacturing & Maintenance; Culinary, Hospitality & Fitness; Education & Social Services; Health Sciences; Information Technology; Law, Protective & Human Services; Science, Math & Natural Resources; and Transportation. Admissions criteria vary by program and are available by calling our Enrollment Office at (608) 246-6210 or (800) 322-6282 Ext. 6210. The following person has been designated to coordinate Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and to handle inquiries regarding the college's nondiscrimination policies: Lisa Muchka, Director, Civil Rights and Compliance, 1701 Wright Street, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 246.5221