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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Circulation Clerk

Hutto, TX · On-site

$20.60 - $22.73/hr

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES Knowledge of library circulation desk tasks and processes Skilled ... Ability to assist patrons with a wide variety of operating systems, software, & devices. Ability to ...

Circulation Clerk

Hutto, TX · On-site

$20.60 - $22.74/hr

Knowledge of library circulation desk tasks and processes * Skilled in Microsoft Office products ... Ability to assist patrons with a wide variety of operating systems, software, & devices. * Ability ...

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Circulation Desk Assistant information

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How much do circulation desk assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation desk assistant in the United States is $15.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a circulation desk assistant?

A circulation desk assistant is a library staff member responsible for managing the check-in and check-out of library materials, assisting patrons, and maintaining the circulation area. They often use library management software and need good customer service skills. The role typically requires attention to detail and may involve working flexible hours.

What is the role of a circulatory assistant?

A Circulation Desk Assistant is responsible for managing the check-in and check-out of library materials, assisting patrons with locating resources, and maintaining the organization of the circulation area. They often use library management systems and provide customer service in a library or similar environment.

What are Circulation Desk Assistants?

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, and why are they important?

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.

Can you work in a library without being a librarian?

Yes, a Circulation Desk Assistant can work in a library without being a librarian. These roles typically involve tasks like checking out materials, managing overdue items, and assisting patrons, often requiring customer service skills and familiarity with library systems but not requiring a librarian certification.

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.

How much does a circulation clerk make?

A circulation desk assistant typically earns between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific library or institution. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the minimum wage, while experienced clerks or those with additional responsibilities can earn higher wages.
More about Circulation Desk Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Circulation Desk Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Circulation Desk jobs? The most popular types of Circulation Desk jobs are:
What states have the most Circulation Desk Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Circulation Desk Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs are:
Infographic showing various Circulation Desk Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,955 per year, or $15.8 per hour.
Library Circulation Desk Worker - PT

Library Circulation Desk Worker - PT

Westminster Theological Seminary

Glenside, PA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
Position Purpose
Responsible for assisting library staff with various tasks including staffing the circulation desk, interfiling books and other projects as needed.
Essential Functions
  • Check library materials in and out, interfile returned items and items used within the library, collect fines and fees: 50%
  • Assist students and other library patrons in locating library materials, accessing electronic resources, using the photocopiers/scanners, etc.: 20%
  • Maintain neatness and organization of the Circulation Desk area, answering phone: 5%
  • Carry-out opening and closing procedures per schedule: 10%
  • Other responsibilities as required by supervisor:15%

Requirements
Qualifications
  • Good verbal communication skills in the English language
  • Attention to detail, ability to organize and prioritize tasks
  • Understanding of basic research skills and basic computer skills
  • Familiarity with use of library catalog, electronic resources, library facilities, and Library of Congress call numbers
  • Able to prioritize tasks
  • Current Westminster Theological Seminary student who is familiar with using the library;
  • Dependable, flexible, able to take direction;
  • Interacts well with co-workers and library patrons.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:
  • Some lifting (up to 25 lbs.), pushing of carts (up to 50 lbs.), bending, reaching, and stooping required.

Work Schedule
  • Various shifts cover all hours the library is open which may include opening and closing the library.
  • Weekend and evening work expected.
  • Approximately 8-10 hours per week
  • Total work time from all seminary employment may not exceed 1,250 hours in a year.

Westminster Theological Seminary hires only personnel who belong to a Protestant evangelical church and subscribe to Biblical orthodoxy (belief) and orthopraxy (practice). Employees shall affirm their agreement with the historic, trinitarian Christian faith as expressed in the Apostles' Creed. Otherwise, Westminster Theological Seminary is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, except as specifically allowed by federal and state law, and basing employment decisions on merit, qualifications and training. Westminster Theological Seminary does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion (except as religion is a bona fide occupational qualification), sex, national origin, age, disability or any other classification protected by law.
In accordance with the above paragraph, all employees are required to sign Westminster Theological Seminary's Community Life Policy affirming their commitment to Christian belief and practice as described in the policy.
This is intended to be an accurate presentation of this position. There may be duties and accountabilities that will be presented to an incumbent of this position that are not included in this position description. Position descriptions are subject to on-going changes so as to ensure the organization operates effectively.