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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Massachusetts

Town Of Sharon

Substitute Library Assistant

Sharon, MA · On-site

$24.80/hr

The Substitute Library Assistant supports circulation services, including: * Checking items in and out for patrons * Processing delivery boxes * Using the library's catalog and circulation software ...

Town of Sharon

Substitute Library Assistant

Sharon, MA · On-site

$24.80/hr

The Substitute Library Assistant supports circulation services, including: * Checking items in and out for patrons * Processing delivery boxes * Using the library's catalog and circulation software ...

Town of Sharon

Substitute Library Assistant

Sharon, MA

$24.80/hr

The Substitute Library Assistant supports circulation services, including: * Checking items in and out for patrons * Processing delivery boxes * Using the library's catalog and circulation software ...

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All JobsLibrary Circulation JobsLibrary Circulation Assistant JobsLibrary Circulation Assistant Jobs in Massachusetts

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Massachusetts salary details

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$17

$27

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Massachusetts is $17.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 qualifications are needed to be a library circulation assistant?

Library circulation assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong customer service skills, basic computer proficiency, and attention to detail are important; some positions may require familiarity with library management systems. Additional certifications are generally not required but can be beneficial.
More about Library Circulation Assistant jobs

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The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs in Massachusetts are:

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For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Massachusetts are:

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Cities in Massachusetts with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,251 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Library Circulation Assistant

Trustees of Deerfield Academy

Deerfield, MA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Reporting to the Library Director and collaborating with the full Library Staff, the Library Circulation Assistant serves as a main point of contact for Library users; provides circulation services; troubleshoots minor technology issues; supports cataloging and processing activities; and provides responsive, user-centered service that supports the academic success of faculty and students.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Serve as a welcoming and professional main point of contact for Library users; with an emphasis on promoting student-centered services;
  • Assists with collection development and maintenance, materials processing, shelving, and special projects.
  • Provides circulation services and troubleshoots minor technology issues over the phone, through email and other technology-based systems, and in person;
  • Monitors usage of the building, making occasional rounds, and serve as a visible presence in the physical spaces;
  • Contributes to a continuous process of assessment to ensure the Library’s success in advancing Deerfield Academy’s evolving goals in light of pedagogical, information, technology, and user preference changes.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Job Specifications

  • High school diploma required. Associate’s degree preferred
  • 1 – 3 years’ library or equivalent experience required.
  • Strong customer service orientation with the ability to foster a welcoming, responsive, and inclusive environment for all library users.
  • Proven collaboration, communication, people skills and proficiency in working with a diverse and wide range of individuals, including adolescents.
  • General knowledge of library principles and policies, including research and information literacy.
  • Proficiency with multiple computer systems, software, and technology appropriate to libraries.
  • Willingness to innovate and adopt new practices and procedures.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills with an ability to provide reference instruction and technology support to students and faculty.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to balance multiple priorities and projects while working at a very high rate of accuracy
  • Ability and willingness to perform regular evening and or/weekend work, as Library needs require. In some circumstances, be prepared to assist during adverse weather and emergency situations to ensure essential services and service points as covered.
  • Ability to work independently with initiative, as well as be a part of a team
  • Ability to manage, and sensitivity to, highly confidential information
  • Energy, enthusiasm, initiative, friendliness.
  • Commitment to excellence.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion and to serving the needs of a diverse community.

Physical Demands

  • Close visual acuity to analyze data and figures and to view a computer terminal
  • Ability to occasionally ascend and descend stairs
  • Ability to frequently sustain substantial movements of the wrist, hands and/or fingers
  • Ability to occasionally lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects up to 25 lbs.
  • Ability to occasionally stoop, kneel or reach

Working Conditions

The work takes place in an office environment, and the worker is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.

Special Instructions for Applicants

Application materials must include:

  • A cover letter summarizing interests and qualifications
  • A complete resume or curriculum vitae

Disclaimer

The above job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. This job description is not intended to be construed as a comprehensive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. It is expected that job duties and responsibilities will develop over time commensurate with performance.

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