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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Catawba County, NC

$17.55/hr

In this role, you will assist patrons at the circulation desk, support the use of library technology and resources, and help maintain an organized and welcoming space. As part of an innovative ...

University of Florida

Library Assistant I

Gainesville, FL · On-site

$16/hr

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Responsible for Circulation Desk operations. Assist patrons at the Legal Information Center's Circulation Desk and respond to requests made via phone and email. Check materials in ...

York County

Library Clerk (Circulation)

Yorktown, VA · On-site

$40K - $47K/yr

Ability to assist patrons in a tactful and courteous manner both in person and on the telephone ... Standing is frequent when at the circulation desk. Gripping is involved when writing with pen or ...

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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.
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What states have the most Circulation Desk Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Circulation Desk Assistant jobs include:
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Circulation Desk Assistant jobs near you
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.
Part Time Library Assistant

Part Time Library Assistant

Lorain County Community College

Elyria, OH • On-site

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Lorain County Community College rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

435th of 560 rated colleges and universities

Job description


The Part-time Library Assistant-Circulation Desk will assist with the daily operations of the LCCC Library Circulation Desk and Elyria Public Library Circulation Desk by performing duties including, but not limited to: provide excellent customer service to all library patrons; assist in training and oversight of library student workers; issue student and community ID cards; perform daily Circulation department duties; assist with library reference questions and perform other work-related duties as assigned by the Circulation Desk Supervisor. Position reports to the Circulation Desk Supervisor, under the general supervision of the Dean, Teaching & Learning Support.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications: High school graduate or equivalent; excellent customer service, communication and organizational skills, ability to work in a team-based environment. The individual should be able to independently perform tasks effectively and in a timely manner. Experience working with computers using Microsoft Office, Outlook, Google Chrome and Firefox. Must be able to work evenings and weekends.
Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge and experience with PeopleSoft/Oracle.
The complete application file should include cover letter, resume, unofficial college transcripts (undergraduate and graduate), and 3 professional references which can be uploaded to the online application. Candidate selected will be subject to appropriate background checks before hire.
About LCCC:
Established in 1963, Lorain County Community College is the first community college in Ohio with a permanent campus. For six decades, LCCC has served the diverse needs of greater Lorain County region by providing affordable access to higher education and now serves approximately 13,000 students each year in certificate, associate, bachelor's and master's degree programs.
Since 1963, one in four Lorain County residents have taken classes at LCCC and more than 43,000 have earned a degree. LCCC was recently ranked in the top 10% of most affordable colleges in the nation and more than 90% of LCCC graduates live and work in Northeast Ohio. 45% of Lorain County's high school graduates earn college credits through LCCC's high school dual enrollment programs. LCCC also partners with more than 700 employers and offers 170 industry-recognized credentials to better prepare the workforce for the future.
LCCC is a dynamic, student-centered college intentionally designed to support individuals with balancing multiple roles on their path to college completion. 85% of LCCC students work while attending college, with majority working at least half-time. The average age of LCCC's students is 24, and many bring life experiences that include caring for dependents, serving in the military, or completing some prior college. Over 80% of LCCC students received financial assistance through grants and scholarships, and LCCC has been nationally recognized for holistic, fully integrated services and commitment to student success.
Lorain County Community College seeks to hire and employ locally whenever possible. Employees should reside in Ohio, where they can be responsive to on-campus work requirements, and within a reasonable commuting distance of their work location.

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