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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Library Clerk

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

They assist with computer/equipment circulation, stay current with the latest information technology in order to facilitate student and teacher access to resources and library program, and oversee ...

LIBRARY TECHNICIAN

Baldwin, MI · On-site

$19.03/hr

Prepares, maintains and reports appropriate records pertaining to circulation, inventory, newspapers and magazines. * The Library Technician may assist in conducting library orientation for classes ...

Prepares, maintains and reports appropriate records pertaining to circulation, inventory, newspapers and magazines. * The Library Technician may assist in conducting library orientation for classes ...

LIBRARY TECHNICIAN

Baldwin, MI · On-site

$19.03/hr

Prepares, maintains and reports appropriate records pertaining to circulation, inventory, newspapers and magazines. * The Library Technician may assist in conducting library orientation for classes ...

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$6

$13

$21

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Michigan is $13.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.48 and $15.48 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.

What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Michigan?

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,931 per year, or $13.9 per hour.

Library Circulation Operations Supervisor

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site


City of Grand Rapids
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 851 rated public administrative organizations

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$64K - $82K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Nature of Work This full-time position manages daily operations at the Main Library, working in collaboration with other managers with the overall goal of helping patrons access library resources. This position participates in direct public service and circulation functions. Supervisory functions include hiring, training, evaluating, scheduling, and directing the day-to-day work of a large team of part-time employees, with an emphasis of supervising the Library Assistant IIs in the Patron Services Department.

This position will act as Supervisor in Charge, participates in various standing committees, and contributes to the development and execution of goals in support of the GRPL's mission and strategic plan. The schedule for this position is as follows: Monday 12:00 - 9:00 pm Tuesday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Thursday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Alternating Friday/Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Sunday (occasionally required between Labor Day and Memorial Day) 1:00 - 5:00 pm Core Competencies Leadership & Management Hires, trains, evaluates, and schedules Patron Services Department part-time employees. Directs the day-to-day work of Patron Services staff to ensure efficient workflow, consistent customer service, and public access to resources.

Mentors staff and provides ongoing feedback regarding performance and professional development. Communicates service changes to staff; advises and trains staff on new or updated procedures and expectations related to customer service, patron access, and materials handling. Customer Service & Patron Relations Provides and models engaging, consistent customer service.

Assists patrons with access to library resources, including checking materials in and out, answering questions, issuing library cards, and resolving patron problems and complaints. Operational Management Collaborates with other managers to ensure consistent, efficient, and effective public service and materials handling. Provides input and feedback on customer service procedures, circulation procedures, and GRPL policies.

Works with other libraries to resolve issues related to GRPL materials or patrons. Minimum Training and Experience Required: Bachelor's degree 2 years of progressively responsible supervisory experience 2 years of circulation experience in a library Preferred: Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish Possession of a valid driver's license and vehicle insurance Other Necessary Qualifications Ability to: Provide and model engaging and consistent customer service. Communicate effectively and professionally with diverse groups both verbally and in writing.

Select, evaluate, train, mentor, and provide feedback to staff; keep up-to-date on GRPL policies, procedures, and documentation as they relate to circulation functions; communicate and train around these functions and relay accurate information as needed. Follow library policies and procedures as well as state laws governing library services, specifically those laws dealing with the confidentiality of patron records; apply library procedures, principles, and methods, as well as develop an understanding of work flow analysis and systemic improvements. Analyze and identify supervisory opportunities and challenges and implement solutions.

Set priorities and meet deadlines; adaptability and judgment to reprioritize as needed. Perform standardized processes; follow procedures in processing forms and other communication. Understand systems and maintain an organized and effective work process; flexibility to review and improve upon processes as they become dated or new information becomes available.

Prepare clear and concise reports. Establish and maintain positive working relationships with coworkers and the public; work collaboratively. Manage emotions in the workplace and maintain professional composure and judgement.

Work with supervisor and process feedback regarding job performance. Understanding of: General office procedures, processes and equipment; ability to operate a variety of office equipment, including computer workstations, typical electronic devices, and software. Other Information Please note the following: A cover letter is required Please attach a cover letter in pdf format that describes your interest in the position, your interest in working at GRPL, and how these might tie in with personal or professional goals All communication regarding this position will be done via email; it is your responsibility to ensure that your email address is up-to-date on your account profile To be eligible for this position, you must apply through the City of Grand Rapids Job Opportunities page Please visit the library's jobs page for a list of other open positions at Grand Rapids Public Library.

All inquiries related to this posting should be directed to: Grand Rapids Public Library 111 Library St NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-988-5400 | jobs@grpl.org GRPL proudly promotes diversity and inclusion in employment, and strives to maintain a workplace culture where respect and positive recognition of differences are cultivated. Grand Rapids Public Library provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination of any type without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, height, weight, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. GRPL will make reasonable accommodations for employees and job applicants with disabilities

This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruiting, hiring, transfer, training, promotion, discipline, termination, leaves of absence, compensation, and benefits, as well as work-related events and activities.



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