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Circulation Desk Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The purpose of this position is to assist with the circulation of materials in the library. Assist ... Performs all activities at the circulation desk, including checking in/out items for patrons ...

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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Circulation Desk Assistant information

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How much do circulation desk assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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 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.

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Circulation Desk Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% 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.

Circulation Assistant

County of Oconee

Salem, SC • On-site

$15/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description

Job posted until Friday, June 5th at 9:00am.


Full-Time position.

Entry pay is $29,250 ($15.00/hour)


GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The purpose of this position is to assist with the circulation of materials in the library. Assist patrons in locating materials and information. This position provides assistance with loan requests for books, periodicals, and other materials. Responsible for shelving materials and examining stacks to ensure accuracy of location and to identify damaged items. This role provides basic technology assistance to patrons using the library's computers, network, and printing devices. Additionally, assists in organizing special events and in preparing library displays and decorations.


ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job duties satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the duties herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out but may be considered incidental in the performance of this job.

  • Performs all activities at the circulation desk, including checking in/out items for patrons, answering phones, assisting patrons with inquiries, and assisting in opening and closing procedures.
  • Maintains organization of library stacks by shelving items, ensuring proper placement. Conducts shelf reads to maintain proper item placement.
  • Straightens shelves and maintains cleanliness and order in the library.
  • Assists patrons in locating materials (books, audiobooks, DVDs, or any other items from the collection), using the electronic catalog system and other library equipment; advises patrons of the availability of new resources and library services.
  • Provides minor computer troubleshooting for patrons.
  • Catalogs and maintains magazines or other materials.
  • Alerts the Branch Manager of purchasing needs.
  • Creates promotional materials for library programming, such as bookmarks and flyers.
  • Assists with library programming such as preschool story time, book or activity clubs, seasonal or holiday displays, and crafting activities.
  • Assists in the creation of a monthly calendar of events and programs for library branches.
  • Visits local businesses, churches, schools, and community organizations to display promotional materials and market library services.
  • Submits Interlibrary Loan requests for patrons needing items not in the library's collection.
  • Checks in items from other library branches and ensures they are shelved correctly.
  • Creates 1 or 2 monthly book displays to promote library collection items.
  • Assists patrons with the Library website and online resources.
  • Trains new employees on job responsibilities.
  • Oversees monthly maintenance of New Release DVDs and the New Release DVD binder, as well as New Release Fiction/Non-fiction books, including transitioning items to regular shelving areas.
  • Monitors daily email communications to stay informed about important library updates.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of standard library functions, practices, and procedures.

Ability to set priorities and self-motivated.

Familiarity with computers, e-reader tablet technology, and the internet.

Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite and Publisher.

Ability to operate basic office equipment.

Good customer service and interpersonal skills.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

High School Diploma or equivalent.


LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, OR REGISTRATIONS:

Required: None.

Preferred: None.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work is medium work which requires exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.  

This position has the following special vision requirements: close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less); distance vision (clear vision at 20 feet or more); color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors); peripheral vision (ability to observe an area that can be seen up or down and to the left and right when vision is fixed on a given point); depth perception (three-dimensional vision, ability to judge distances and spatial relationships); adjust focus (ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus).


WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed in a relatively safe and secure indoor work environment; may encounter noise, moisture, humidity, dust, odors, or poor ventilation.