This is a highly public service-oriented position in which Circulation assistants are expected to ... Abide by Library and University policies * Assist patrons in using the online catalogue, locating ...
This is a highly public service-oriented position in which Circulation assistants are expected to ... Abide by Library and University policies * Assist patrons in using the online catalogue, locating ...
Library Circulation Assistant information
See Athol, MA salary details
$7.83 - $9.48
4% of jobs
$9.48 - $11.14
7% of jobs
$11.14 - $12.79
13% of jobs
$13 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.79 - $14.44
8% of jobs
$14.44 - $16.10
5% of jobs
The median wage is $17.04 / hr.
$16.10 - $17.75
22% of jobs
$18.88 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.75 - $19.40
23% of jobs
$19.40 - $21.06
8% of jobs
$21.06 - $22.71
1% of jobs
$22.71 - $24.36
3% of jobs
$24.36 - $26.02
5% of jobs
$7
$16
$26
How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Athol, MA is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Library Circulation Assistant vs Library Clerk?
| Aspect | Library Circulation Assistant | Library Clerk |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer library experience | High school diploma or equivalent; minimal certification needed |
| Work Environment | Public library, school library, or academic library setting | Public or academic library, often in customer service roles |
| Job Responsibilities | Checking out/in materials, managing holds, assisting patrons with library systems | Checking out materials, managing returns, assisting with basic library tasks |
| Common Usage | Often used interchangeably in job postings and industry | Similar 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.
More about Library Circulation Assistant jobs
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Athol, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Athol, MA are:
What cities near Athol, MA are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Athol, MA with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Students at FPU Only - Circulation Assistant Fall 26 & Spring 27
Rindge, NH • On-site
Part-time
Re-posted 4 days ago
Job description
This is a highly public service-oriented position in which Circulation assistants are expected to:
Experience with customer service, retail, or office work may be applicable to this position. Because this is a highly public service-oriented position student assistants are expected to be courteous and attentive to patrons. Student assistants should be able to follow library procedures and policies, be attentive to detailed work, be punctual and dependable, demonstrate initiative and motivation, and display a pleasant and cooperative work attitude. Students hired will be in and remain in good academic standing and will abide by the student code of conduct.
Special Notes: Sunday 11:45 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.; 4 p.. - 6 p.m.
Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.
Monday 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.; 10 - 11 a.m.; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Tuesday 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Wednesday 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Thursday 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Friday 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.; 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Specific days and shifts worked will be determined by the needs of the Circulation Dept. and the hired student's availability.
Available shifts:
Students generally work 6-8 hours, but it may be more. Capped at 19 hours per week.
Student assistants will develop knowledge of basic library procedures which will allow them to enforce library policies and perform their work thoroughly and accurately with minimal supervision. Additionally, if the student is motivated and takes initiative then they may acquire knowledge that will make their personal library research more productive. Hopefully, the student assistant will develop basic workplace skills and ethos that can be applicable to other work environments.
- Abide by Library and University policies
- Assist patrons in using the online catalogue, locating library items, or directing patrons to the appropriate library staff member
- Check items in and out; renew items; place items on hold.
- Properly shelve library item
- Assist in the preparation of items for class reserve
- Assist patrons with printer, scanner and photocopier as needed.
- Assist in other tasks as directed
Experience with customer service, retail, or office work may be applicable to this position. Because this is a highly public service-oriented position student assistants are expected to be courteous and attentive to patrons. Student assistants should be able to follow library procedures and policies, be attentive to detailed work, be punctual and dependable, demonstrate initiative and motivation, and display a pleasant and cooperative work attitude. Students hired will be in and remain in good academic standing and will abide by the student code of conduct.
Special Notes: Sunday 11:45 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.; 4 p.. - 6 p.m.
Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.
Monday 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.; 10 - 11 a.m.; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Tuesday 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Wednesday 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Thursday 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Friday 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.; 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Specific days and shifts worked will be determined by the needs of the Circulation Dept. and the hired student's availability.
Available shifts:
Students generally work 6-8 hours, but it may be more. Capped at 19 hours per week.
Student assistants will develop knowledge of basic library procedures which will allow them to enforce library policies and perform their work thoroughly and accurately with minimal supervision. Additionally, if the student is motivated and takes initiative then they may acquire knowledge that will make their personal library research more productive. Hopefully, the student assistant will develop basic workplace skills and ethos that can be applicable to other work environments.
About Franklin Pierce University
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Colleges, universities, and professional schools
Company size
201 - 500 Employees
Headquarters location
Rindge, NH, US
Year founded
1962