1

Library Assistant Circulation Desk Jobs in Michigan

Bloomfield Township Public Library is seeking a professional and resourceful Library Page to ... Adult and Teen Services, Circulation, or Youth Services, reporting to Assistant Department Head ...

General office work Readers' advisory service Use of audio-visual materials General reference desk duties. Assist patrons in the use of the library. Assist patrons using electronic library services ...

Substitute Librarian

Livonia, MI · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

General reference desk duties. * Assist patrons in the use of the library. * Assist patrons using electronic library services, such as CD-ROM, library catalog, or Internet searches. MINIMUM ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Library Assistant Circulation Desk information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Assistant Circulation Desk, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Assistant Circulation Desk, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), cataloging software, and basic office equipment is typically required. Exceptional customer service, communication abilities, and problem-solving skills help you interact effectively with patrons and colleagues. These skills ensure efficient circulation processes, a positive library experience for users, and smooth daily operations.

What is the difference between Library Assistant Circulation Desk vs Library Assistant Shelving?

AspectLibrary Assistant Circulation DeskLibrary Assistant Shelving
Primary ResponsibilitiesChecking out/in materials, managing overdue items, assisting patrons at the circulation deskOrganizing, shelving, and maintaining library materials on shelves
Work EnvironmentFront desk area, customer service settingLibrary stacks, storage areas
Required SkillsCustomer service, basic computer skills, familiarity with circulation systemsAttention to detail, organization, knowledge of library classification systems

Both roles support library operations but focus on different tasks. The Library Assistant Circulation Desk primarily handles patron interactions and circulation processes, while the Library Assistant Shelving concentrates on organizing and maintaining the library's collection. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right role for your skills and career goals.

What are some common challenges Library Assistants face at the circulation desk, and how can they effectively manage them?

Library Assistants at the circulation desk often juggle multiple tasks, such as checking materials in and out, answering patron questions, and handling overdue fines. A common challenge is managing high volumes of patrons during peak hours while maintaining accuracy and providing excellent customer service. Effective time management, clear communication, and familiarity with library software are key to handling these situations smoothly. Additionally, developing patience and problem-solving skills helps address unique patron needs and resolve issues efficiently.

What are Library Assistant Circulation Desk jobs?

Library Assistant Circulation Desk jobs involve supporting the daily operations of a library’s circulation desk. This typically includes checking books and materials in and out, issuing library cards, answering basic patron questions, shelving items, and managing overdue notices or fines. Library assistants also help maintain an organized and welcoming environment, and may assist with other administrative tasks as needed. Good communication and organizational skills are important for this role.
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Library Assistant Circulation Desk jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Library Assistant Circulation Desk job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Assistant Circulation Desk job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

BTPL- Circulation Assistant Department Head

Bloomfield Township

Bloomfield Township, MI

$32.31 - $45.23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Bloomfield Township Public Library is looking for an enthusiastic, attentive Assistant Department Head in Circulation committed to providing high-quality public library service. Bloomfield Township Public Library is a class V library with a service population of 44,000+ people and an $11 million annual operating budget. There is strong community support for the Library, its collections, services, and the programs offered. The Library promotes inclusivity in the diverse collections and programs available to all ages and abilities. Technology is integrated into library services. The successful candidate will have a strong commitment to providing quality public service and the desire to work in a collaborative team environment.

POSITION TITLE: Assistant Department Head, Circulation


DEPARTMENT: Circulation, reporting to the Circulation Department Head

HOURS:

Full-time, 37.5 hours weekly. Includes evenings and weekends on a flexible basis. Paid time and a half on Sundays.

WAGE & BENEFITS:

$32.31-$45.23 per hour, with an increase upon successfully completing a 90-day orientation period. Paid time-off benefits include vacation, sick, personal business, holiday, emergency time, and paid parental leave. Health Insurance, Dental and Optical Insurance, Term Life and Disability Income Insurance provided. Defined contribution retirement plan and retiree health savings plan offered. Employee assistance program (EAP). Eligible for deferred compensation and other voluntary benefits. Professional membership and opportunities to participate in professional development are also available.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

PUBLIC SERVICE:

  • Provides positive, pleasant professional service to the public.
  • Assists Department Head in supervision of all aspects of the Circulation Department, including scheduling and supervises department in the absence of the Department Head.
  • Assists in the development and implementation of library policies and procedures.
  • Processes money transactions, reconciles reports, and performs related circulation tasks.
  • Assists patrons with understanding their library card accounts.
  • Uses current technologies for communication.
  • Performs opening and closing procedures for the Circulation desk.


PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT:

  • Maintains knowledge of state-of-the art technologies and best practices for circulation in a public library.
  • Participates in professional organizations; seeks opportunities for professional growth and development.

DUTIES MAY INCLUDE:

  • Checks out and in materials from the Library collection and MeL.
  • Counts opening cash tills and balance closing cash tills.
  • Processes patron registration information and verifies accuracy of patron database.
  • Discusses notes on patron records with patrons, explaining and resolving any issues.
  • Explains residency requirements to obtain library cards.
  • Troubleshoots the automated material handling machine.
  • Works with the Department Head and staff to coordinate projects.
  • Hires and supervises Library Assistant I's and Pages, including training, scheduling, performance evaluation, and workflow.
  • Attends Management Advisory Committee meeting in absence of Department Head.
  • Serves as person-in-charge to respond to emergencies and resolve patron issues.
  • Contributes statistical reports related to department operations.
  • Other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

MINIMUM:

  • Minimum of three years' public library experience.
  • High school diploma.
  • Strong customer service skills.
  • Strong skills in using Windows-based computers, Microsoft 365, database searching, downloadable resources, and the internet, as well as cash registers.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and writing skills.
  • Proven interpersonal skills to work effectively with staff in a team environment.
  • Ability to interpret and analyze qualitative and quantitative data.
  • Able to lift, push, and/or pull at least 20 pounds; ability to visually review materials and discern vocal and audible tones with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Dependable and flexible work habits.
  • Strong desire to serve the Library in a positive manner.

DESIRED:

  • Considerable knowledge and experience in Circulation.
  • Supervisory experience.
  • Some coursework in Library Technical Services and Circulation.

APPLICATION: Due Monday, June 15. Start date: late July.

MUST INCLUDE:

  • Resume
  • Cover letter
  • Completed library online application form. To apply, click on the "apply for this job" button on the top right.


Careers

Bloomfield Township Public Library

1099 Lone Pine Road

Bloomfield Township, MI 48302

248-642-5800

Fax: 248-642-4175

Email: careers@btpl.org

We spark curiosity and imagination by connecting the community

to resources, technology, and support. For more information about the Library, visit our website at www.btpl.org

Bloomfield Township Public Library provides equal employment opportunities to qualified persons without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, political views, age, disability, marital status, height, weight, or any other prohibited basis.