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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$6

$14

$23

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Iowa is $14.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.30 and $16.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Library Circulation Assistant vs Library Clerk?

AspectLibrary Circulation AssistantLibrary Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer library experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; minimal certification needed
Work EnvironmentPublic library, school library, or academic library settingPublic or academic library, often in customer service roles
Job ResponsibilitiesChecking out/in materials, managing holds, assisting patrons with library systemsChecking out materials, managing returns, assisting with basic library tasks
Common UsageOften used interchangeably in job postings and industrySimilar roles, sometimes used in different regions or institutions

Both roles involve assisting with library operations and customer service, with slight variations in responsibilities and terminology. The Library Circulation Assistant typically has a broader scope in managing circulation systems, while the Library Clerk may focus more on basic check-out and returns. Both positions require similar credentials and work environments, making them closely related in the library industry.

What is a library circulation assistant?

Library Circulation Assistants are staff members who manage the daily operations at a library's circulation desk. Their responsibilities typically include checking books and other materials in and out, assisting patrons with library accounts, shelving items, and answering basic questions about library services. They also help maintain the organization of library collections and may handle overdue notices or fines. Circulation assistants play a key role in ensuring that the library runs smoothly and that patrons have a positive experience.

What are some common challenges faced by library circulation assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Library Circulation Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as assisting patrons at the front desk, managing check-ins and check-outs, and resolving overdue or lost material issues. One common challenge is handling high-volume periods when many patrons require assistance simultaneously. Effective time management, clear communication, and familiarity with library software can help manage these busy times. Additionally, maintaining a calm and patient demeanor ensures positive interactions with patrons, even during peak hours.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library circulation assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Circulation 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 often required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities help you interact effectively with patrons and staff. These skills ensure efficient library operations, positive patron experiences, and accurate record-keeping.

What does a library circulation assistant do?

A library circulation assistant provides basic support to the circulation clerk, other library staff, and patrons. Your daily responsibilities involve maintaining circulation and the circulation desk, returning books and reference materials to the shelves, shelf maintenance as necessary, and clerical functions like data entry. Additional duties include checking books, magazines, and other library materials in and out, inputting data, and assisting patrons in person and over the phone. You are responsible for referring in-depth research requests to librarians.

What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,177 per year, or $15 per hour.

$15/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Library Associate
Department: Library
Reports To: Library Services Manager
Job Classification: Non-exempt
Location: Marshalltown Community College, Marshalltown, IA
Rate of Pay: $15.00 per hour
Schedule: Less than 29 hours per week
Summary: The purpose of this position is to assist library patrons with resources, materials, research requests and computer questions. This includes providing support to library staff and patrons, representing the college in a positive manner with prospective, current, and former students, employees, and the community. This position may open/close the library depending on shift assignment.
Job Duties:
  • Provides support for students using library resources and contributes to the upkeep and development of study spaces and programming that promote student success.
  • Supports students using computer workstations, monitors activity in the computer area, and reports technical issues to the Helpdesk.
  • Supports daily Tiger Shop operations, including POS use, inventory tracking, vendor coordination, merchandising tasks, and basic assistance with promotional marketing.
  • Supports daily ACCESS Textbooks operations, including receiving and returning materials, tracking inventory, distributing textbooks to students, and providing basic assistance with course-material access.
  • Catalogs and processes new library materials, including creating labels and preparing items for circulation.
  • Acts as Test Proctor as needed.

Education and Experience: High school or high school equivalency diploma required, Associate's degree preferred. One year related experience required, three years of experience in an office environment preferred. Experience can be substituted for education. Education can be substituted for experience.
Abilities:
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and provide exceptional customer service to students, employees, and the public.
  • Knowledge of library operations, procedures, technologies, and software applications, including Microsoft Office products and other systems used to support student learning and district operations.
  • Strong organizational, critical thinking, and decision-making skills, with the ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to frequent interruptions in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work collaboratively as a member of a team while exercising sound judgment and maintaining professionalism in all interactions.
  • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion, comply with FERPA regulations, operate standard office equipment, and work a flexible schedule as needed.

Note: Must be legally eligible to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.
Iowa Valley Community College District does not discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, religion, actual or potential family, parental or marital status, or other protected classes. If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact the District Equity Coordinator, 3702 S. Center Street, Marshalltown, IA 50158, 641-844-5523, Equity@iavalley.edu.
Pay Range: $15 per hour