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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Works under the administrative direction of the Library - Assistant Director - Branch Services; and ... on circulation and service statistics for various reports and for community profile updates ...

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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 Jul 17, 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 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 are Library Circulation Assistants?

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,931 per year, or $13.9 per hour.
Library Associate Senior, Public Services

Library Associate Senior, Public Services

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$33K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

253rd of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Library Associate Senior, Public Services
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Library Associate Senior, Public Services at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Position Purpose:
Perform procedural library work involving moderately complex clerical support for a public or technical service unit in the University Library System. Work activities necessitate proficiency in library methods and procedures and the ability to utilize on-line computer systems and standard office equipment.
Essential Functions:
Perform moderately complex clerical support for circulation, reference and media desk services. Process requests for book charges, discharges and renewals; library card registration. Create and process records and holds via the computerized library system. Collect fines and fees; deposit and record on-line status. Ensure proper and accurate shelving of materials. Assist library patrons with routine bibliographic searches (e.g. locate monographs, serials, periodicals, audio-visual tapes, microfiche and film); provide general instruction in the operation of on-line computer system, e.g. Imagine, Horizon, microfiche/film readers and copiers.
Assist with bibliographic cataloging and acquisitions following established procedures. Operate computer terminal to access, enter and retrieve information involving multiple display formats and the coding and interpretation of data. Input, verify, interpret and edit on-line electronic records of journal subscriptions, bindery shipments, subject headings, authority records and other data pertaining to acquisitions, cataloging, bindery and circulation via OCLC system and bibliographic database.
Perform bindery and preservation functions for the library. Update and maintain on-line data pertaining to materials in the bindery process. Prepare and ship materials to bindery.
Review and verify computer generated reports to identify and correct routine errors of on-line data. Compile statistical data and prepare monthly and special reports regarding departmental operations. Maintain and update daily activity logs and work order requests. Process invoices to initiate vendor payment; deposit fines/fees into appropriate accounts; maintain billing status via computerized record.
Provide functional supervision to a large number (7-10) of student assistants and full and parttime support personnel. Assign and monitor work activities. Train in appropriate methods and procedures. Answer and resolve routine inquiries; refer complex problems to appropriate personnel.
Participate in general office functions as needed. Prepare and process appropriate University forms, paperwork and general correspondence. Operate standard and non-standard office equipment and machines, e.g. typewriter, photocopier, computer terminal, microfilm/fiche readers. Receive and answer telephone calls, take messages and direct inquiries and problems to appropriate personnel. Maintain department files; prepare materials for mail (i.e. interlibrary loan and DALNET information).
Open and close building facility and maintain secure area. May be required to work evening and weekend shifts. Monitor supply and equipment inventory; order materials and contact vendor representatives as necessary.
Perform related work as assigned.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
This senior classification level is designed to provide moderately complex clerical support for either a public or technical service unit in the Library System. Work activities necessitate require proficiency in various library procedures, e.g. circulation, loan, reference, media, cataloging, acquisitions, bindery, preservation and receiving services. The incumbent is expected to operate a computer terminal to access, retrieve and enter information via OCLC, Horizon and Imagine systems. The incumbent is expected to have the ability to communicate effectively when assisting patrons with library procedures, methods and operations. Functional supervision is exercised over a large number (7-10) of student and part-time temporary support personnel. The incumbent may be expected to work an evening or weekend shift. Work activities include thinking within somewhat diversified procedures. This classification is generally located in a public or technical service unit in the University Library System. This classification reports to and receives work direction from a professional/administrative, academic staff or management level position.
Minimum Qualifications:
High school graduate or equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Some supervisory experience preferred.
Ability to operate computer terminal, standard and non-standard office equipment, e.g. photocopier, typewriter, microfiche/microfilm reader, accurate typing and data entry skills.
Strong organizational skills; keen attention to detail.
Strong concentration; ability to process large amounts of data and meet deadlines.
Ability to communicate effectively with others.
Some computer skills and the ability to read and interpret on-line records.
Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and evening hours.
Ability to work a regular schedule including weekends and evenings.
Some knowledge of OCLC, Horizon and Imagine systems preferred.
Typically, incumbents have held positions as Library Clerk, Office Clerk or student employee in a library facility.
The Schedule and location for this position:
Purdy Kresge Library
During the Spring/Summer
Sunday thru Thursday
2:30pm - 11:00pm
Purdy Kresge Library
During Fall/Winter
Sunday thru Thursday
5:30pm - 2:00am
School/College/Division:
H01 - University Libraries
Primary Department:
H0106 - Public Services
Employment Type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Staff/Administrative
Funding/Salary Information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Salary minimum: $33,127
  • Salary hire maximum: $39,748
Working Conditions:
Normal office environment.
This position must be filled pursuant to the provisions ofa collective bargaining agreement, and as such may be filled by a qualifiedbargaining unit member, should one apply.
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 1
  • Reposted position: No
Background Check Requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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