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Circulation Desk Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elkhart Public Library

Clerk I - Circulation

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$14.84 - $18.57/hr

Handles financial transactions at circulation desk and public copiers. * Performs opening and closing task as assigned. * Selects materials and/or performs collection maintenance as assigned, with ...

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Under the direction of the Library Circulation Supervisor, this position provides direct patron services at the circulation desk for library card registration, borrowing/returning of materials, and ...

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Under the direction of the Library Circulation Supervisor, this position provides direct patron services at the circulation desk for library card registration, borrowing/returning of materials, and ...

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Under the direction of the Library Circulation Supervisor, this position provides direct patron services at the circulation desk for library card registration, borrowing/returning of materials, and ...

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Under the direction of the Library Circulation Supervisor, this position provides direct patron services at the circulation desk for library card registration, borrowing/returning of materials, and ...

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Circulation Desk information

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How much do circulation desk jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for circulation desk in the United States is $20.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a circulation desk?

Circulation desk jobs refer to positions in libraries where staff members assist patrons with borrowing, returning, and renewing library materials. People working at the circulation desk also handle tasks like checking library cards, managing fines, processing holds, and answering general questions about library services. These roles are vital for ensuring smooth library operations and providing excellent customer service to visitors. Circulation desk staff may also shelve returned materials and help maintain the organization of the library’s collection.

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 basic knowledge of library operations, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS) such as Koha or Sierra, barcode scanners, and cataloging software is commonly required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities help in assisting patrons and handling inquiries efficiently. These skills ensure smooth library operations, accurate record-keeping, and a positive experience for library users.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working at the circulation desk, and how can they be managed effectively?

Staff at the Circulation Desk often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of patrons during peak hours, resolving overdue or lost item disputes, and maintaining accuracy in checking materials in and out. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and familiarity with library management systems help address these issues. Additionally, teamwork and regular training ensure staff can provide efficient, courteous service and handle unexpected situations with confidence.

What is the difference between Circulation Desk vs Library Assistant?

AspectCirculation DeskLibrary Assistant
Primary RoleManage book checkouts, returns, and renewalsAssist with shelving, cataloging, and patron support
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require library certificationsHigh school diploma; relevant experience helpful
Work EnvironmentFront desk of library, customer service settingLibrary floors, shelving areas, and front desk
Employer & IndustryPublic, academic, or special librariesPublic, academic, or special libraries

While both roles support library operations, the Circulation Desk primarily handles book transactions and patron checkouts, whereas the Library Assistant performs broader tasks like shelving and assisting patrons. Both roles require similar credentials and work in the same environment, often overlapping in public and academic libraries.

What cities are hiring for Circulation Desk jobs?

Cities with the most Circulation Desk 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 jobs?

States with the most job openings for Circulation Desk jobs include:

Circulation Desk jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circulation Desk job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,356 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Circulation Manager

Bedford, KY • On-site

Trimble County Public Library
See more jobs at Trimble County Public Libraryexternal

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Trimble County Public Library - Circulation Manager
Overview:
The Circulation Manager supports the library's mission by overseeing circulation operations, supervising and training staff, providing excellent customer service, supporting electronic resources and technology, assisting with collection development and materials processing, and promoting library programs and services.
Immediate Supervisor: Library Director
Positions Directly Supervised: None, but may supervise staff in the absence of the Director or Assistant Director.POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:
Circulation and Customer Service
  • Manages daily circulation desk operations, staffing, scheduling, and coverage.
  • Manages, trains, motivates, evaluates, and assists with hiring and onboarding circulation staff.
  • Provides and promotes consistent, professional, and welcoming customer service.
  • Assists patrons with circulation services, accounts, policies, technology, resources, and general information.
  • Resolves patron concerns tactfully and professionally and refers complex matters to the Library Director as appropriate.
  • Performs circulation and front desk duties as needed, including cash handling and authorized notary services.
  • Maintains patron confidentiality and follows applicable laws, policies, and procedures.
  • Develops and improves circulation procedures, workflows, and service practices.
  • Creates displays and promotional materials highlighting library collections and services.
  • Participates in staff meetings, training, professional development, and library planning.
Electronic Resources and Technology
  • Assists patrons and staff with electronic resources, databases, e-books, digital audiobooks, streaming services, and other technology.
  • Troubleshoots technology and electronic resource issues and coordinates with the Technology Manager when needed.
  • Assists with the selection, evaluation, acquisition, renewal, and management of electronic resources and technology services, including Kajeet.
  • Maintains knowledge of emerging library technologies, electronic resource trends, and relevant services.
  • Participates in technology training and continuing education.
Collection Development and Materials
  • Participates in collection development, including selecting, purchasing, evaluating, maintaining, and withdrawing materials as assigned.
  • Reviews donated materials and assists with inventory, weeding, collection maintenance, and related projects.
  • Processes library materials and performs basic cataloging, metadata, and material repair duties as needed.
  • Oversees materials processing and trains staff on related procedures.
  • Works with staff and vendors to resolve cataloging, processing, and ILS issues.
Programs and Library Services
  • Assists with library programs, events, and special activities, including room and technology preparation, promotion, and attendance tracking.
  • Provides general assistance to patrons and staff throughout the library.
  • Supports the library's mission, policies, programs, and services through positive and professional community interactions.
Administrative and General Duties
  • Participates in planning, evaluation, and improvement of library services and operations.
  • Assists with policies, procedures, workflows, records, statistics, and assigned administrative projects.
  • Maintains awareness of current library trends, technology, issues, and best practices.
  • Maintains confidentiality and represents the library professionally.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Knowledge of public library services, circulation, customer service, collection development, and library operations.
  • Knowledge of staff supervision, training, scheduling, and performance management.
  • Strong computer, technology, electronic resources, and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to learn and effectively use library software, electronic resources, the Integrated Library System (ILS), and emerging technologies.
  • Understanding of electronic resource acquisition, licensing, authentication, content models, and usage statistics.
  • Knowledge of basic materials processing and cataloging practices.
  • Strong interpersonal, written, verbal, and electronic communication skills.
  • Ability to supervise and lead staff effectively and work cooperatively with patrons, coworkers, vendors, and community members.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment, solve problems, manage multiple priorities, and work independently.
  • Ability to handle difficult situations professionally and respectfully.
  • Ability to adapt to changing technology, procedures, services, and community needs.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and confidential information.
  • Knowledge of social media and digital communication.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The position requires extended periods of sitting or standing, computer use, manual dexterity, and repetitive tasks. Duties may include reaching, bending, lifting materials up to 40 pounds, and pushing or pulling fully loaded book trucks weighing up to 100 pounds.EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Library and Information Science or a related field required.
  • Prior supervisory or management experience required.
  • Prior experience training personnel required.
  • Experience with library technology, electronic resources, collection development, circulation, or public library operations required.
  • Strong knowledge of the local community required.
  • Must obtain and maintain appropriate Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives (KDLA) certification within the required timeframe and complete required continuing education.
WORK SCHEDULE AND STATUS:
This is a full-time position working 37.5 hours per week. The Circulation Manager must be available for a flexible schedule, including daytime, evening, and weekend hours as library operations require.

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