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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wheaton College

AY Ast-Circulation

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$15/hr

... Assistants are members of the Access Services team and support the library's mission and vision. Role responsibilities include providing excellent customer service at the Circulation Desk and ...

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How much do circulation desk assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 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?

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.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Circulation Desk jobs?

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Circulation Desk Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circulation Desk Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% 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.

Graduate Assistant - Library Circulation Desk

Avila University

Kansas City, MO • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
The Hooley-Bundschu Library and Learning Commons is looking for a responsible, motivated, and customer-focused individual to staff the library's circulation desk and perform tasks related to library circulation and lending.
Responsibilities:
  • Maintain operations at the library's main Circulation Desk.
  • Complete circulation and collection maintenance tasks, including checking materials in and out, reshelving, shelf reading, and inventory, with accuracy and efficiency.
  • Answer questions and connect library users with information about library resources, services, and relevant university departments.
  • Provide basic research assistance and help library users locate print and online resources.
  • Maintain the library's Interlibrary Loan program and complete assigned library projects.
  • On occasion, provide direction to other student employees and assist with tracking work hours.
  • On occasion, oversee routine library operations during designated shifts when other library staff are unavailable.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
  • Must be admitted and enrolled as a graduate student at Avila University, and be eligible for tuition remission. International students are not eligible for graduate assistantships.
  • Availability to work a consistent daytime schedule on weekdays is strongly preferred.
  • Excellent customer service skills, a friendly and positive attitude, and a willingness to assist a diverse community of students, faculty, staff, and guests.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Good organization and attention to detail.
  • Familiarity with computers and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Familiarity with Dewey Decimal System basics (desired but not required).
  • Good organization and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work efficiently, accurately, independently, and as part of a team.
  • Prior experience with library work, library management systems, and the Dewey Decimal Classification system is preferred but not required.

Successful candidates should showcase their work and experience in contributing to a climate that supports a diverse student body, serves first-generation college students, multilingual learners, and contributions to equity and social justice through their work.
The Community:
Kansas City, a two-state metropolitan area with a population of nearly two million, offers a wide variety of cultural, educational and social life opportunities. Avila University, a Catholic university founded and inspired by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, provides undergraduate and graduate education in the liberal arts and professional studies, preparing lifelong learners who make meaningful contributions to the global community.
Additional Employment Information:
Avila University is committed to equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate on the basis of, sex, race, religion, age, color, sexual orientation, disability, national or ethnic origin, marital status, veteran's status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.
You must be at least 18 years of age to be employed by Avila University.
All new employees will be required to complete an "Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9)" and produce requested documentation after employment.
In compliance with the Higher Education Amendments of 1998, the university's annual security and crime statistics report is available at https://www.avila.edu/campus-resources/campus-safety. A copy of this report is available upon request from the Campus Safety Office in the Whitfield building any weekday between 8am and 5pm.
Avila University requires the successful completion of a background check as a condition of employment.

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