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Library Assistant Circulation Desk Jobs in Toronto, ON

PSI Engineering

Marketing Coordinator

Mississauga, ON · On-site

CA$50K - CA$55K/yr

Organize, maintain, and govern PSI's library of marketing assets--including brochures, datasheets ... are in circulation. * Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external vendors (designers ...

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All JobsLibrary Circulation Desk JobsLibrary Assistant Circulation Desk JobsLibrary Assistant Circulation Desk Jobs in Toronto, ON

Library Assistant Circulation Desk information

What is a library assistant circulation desk?

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 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 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 does a library assistant circulation desk do at a library?

A library assistant at the circulation desk helps patrons check out and return library materials, manages overdue items, and maintains the circulation records using library management software. They also assist visitors with locating materials, answer basic questions, and ensure the smooth operation of daily circulation activities.

What qualifications do you need for a library assistant circulation desk?

A library assistant at the circulation desk typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong customer service skills, basic computer proficiency, and familiarity with library systems or cataloging software are also important qualifications.
Library Assistant Circulation Desk jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant Circulation Desk job openings in Toronto, ON as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

User Services Generalist (Engineering & Computer Science Library)

Toronto, ON

University of Toronto
Education • 10K+ employees
Learn more about University of Torontoexternal

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Date Posted: 09/09/2026
Req ID: 49929
Faculty/Division: Library
Department: Engineering Library
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)

Description:

About Us: 

The University of Toronto Libraries (UTL) system is the largest academic library in Canada and is ranked in the top five among peer institutions in North America. The system comprises 40 libraries located across three university campuses: St.George, Mississauga, and Scarborough. This diverse and extensive network of college libraries, special collections, and specialized information centres plays a pivotal role in supporting the teaching, scholarly, and research needs of nearly 100,000 students enrolled in a wide array of graduate, professional, and undergraduate programs. The library system provides access to millions of resources in various formats, including electronic, print, audio-visual, data and geospatial materials. UTL also boasts impressive holdings of archival material and substantial digital collections, securely preserved in the libraries' data centre. The staff at UTL are integral to the academic and scholarly enterprise, working closely with faculty and students to support their teaching, learning, and research requirements. They are subject matter experts; they are skilled in research data management, collections, statistics, GIS, metadata, digital preservation, scholarly communications, copyright, teaching, knowledge synthesis, open access and much more. Our work is grounded in our commitment to support equity, diversity, and inclusion.
UTL continuously evolves to meet the changing academic priorities and pressures at the University and within the broader landscape of higher education.

Your opportunity: 

The Engineering & Computer Science Library (ECSL) is the second largest science library at UTL. It is the main library at the University of Toronto (U of T) for the computer science and engineering collections and resources, both online and in print. ECSL is deeply embedded into the engineering and computer science communities at U of T and librarians often partner with faculty and staff on teaching, research, and outreach initiatives. ECSL is a busy and popular place for students to meet and work together on their group assignments, making this library an active and vibrant hub of teaching and learning. 

The User Services Generalist is responsible for providing direct service to patrons and performs a range of duties: general reference, loan services and retrieval services (print and digital), providing information and referrals, and stacks and study space management. Service may be provided in person and via telephone or online. Circulation duties will involve opening the library and staffing the library on weekends and/or evenings. The User Services Generalist has responsibility to provide front-facing user services for students and faculty at the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering and the Department of Computer Science and those within the wider University community. The position may also provide workflow leadership; provide mentorship and day-to-day guidance to student library staff, ensuring high-quality service delivery to patrons, both in-person and virtually; support student library staff training and may be responsible for the establishment of schedules for student staff and the preliminary documentation in the payroll process. Provides back-up for other library staff and performs other related duties as required. May be responsible for other duties as outlined in the assigned position profile. 

Qualifications (Minimum) 

Education: 

  • Community College Graduation required (2-year Library Technician program) or equivalent combination of education and experience required. 

Experience: 

  • A minimum of one (1) year of related experience required, experience in an academic, scientific or technical library an asset 

Skills: 

  • Working knowledge of emerging technologies that support efficiency, and effectiveness in an academic library 

  • Working knowledge of ALMA required 

  • Working knowledge of U of T library system and policies an asset 

  • Working knowledge of resource sharing procedures in the central and campus libraries an asset 

  • Working knowledge of bibliographic searching and verification skills required. 

Other: 

  • Ability and willingness to learn and implement new technologies and digital tools when appropriate and required.  

  • Windows and MS365 software applications,web browsers, and knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, digital messaging (Teams) and e-mail software required. 

  • Possesses a growth mindset to embrace learning, adapt to evolving technologies and library practices and supports the community. You are curious, resourceful and open to feedback, with a commitment to continuous professional development. 

  • Demonstrated commitment to the values of inclusivity, diversity, anti-racism, equity and accessibility. 

Notes: 

  • This position is 100% on-site at the Engineering & Computer Science Library and is not eligible for a hybrid work arrangement.

Closing Date: 09/17/2026, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: CUPE 1230
Appointment Type: Budget - Continuing
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone: CUPE 1230 (5U) - Step 1: $70,296 - Step 2: $72,971 - Step 3: $75,781
Job Category: Library Services

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