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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Buffalo, NY

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Buffalo, NY salary details

$7

$15

$23

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Buffalo, NY is $15.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.63 and $17.21 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 the most commonly searched types of Library Circulation jobs in Buffalo, NY?

The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs in Buffalo, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Buffalo, NY?

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

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Buffalo, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Buffalo, NY are:

What cities near Buffalo, NY are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Buffalo, NY with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Buffalo, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,153 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

List Center Library Student Assistant - FWS

Newschool

Depew, NY

$17 - $18/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Located in the heart of New York City, The New School has been a pioneering force in education, creativity, and innovation since its founding in 1919. With a progressive, globally recognized interdisciplinary model, the university is home to a diverse community of thousands of students from more than 100 countries. We offer over 135 degree and diploma programs across our esteemed colleges, including Parsons School of Design, The New School for Social Research, Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, Parsons Paris, and the College of Performing Arts.


POSITION/ROLE OVERVIEW

The New School Libraries are seeking 6+ Student Worker Library Assistants who will support the university's mission of preparing students to understand, contribute to, and succeed in a rapidly changing society, thereby making the world a better and more just place. Our work contributes to this mission by offering consistent and reliable service to all students, faculty, and staff of The New School.

CORE CAPABILITIES, PRIMARY DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Report for shift on time and review priority tasks with supervisor

  • Monitor patrons entering and exiting the library and be ready to assist them at the circulation desk

  • Check in and check out library materials to patrons at the desk using library software

  • Stacks maintenance including shelving, in-housing books, shelf reading, etc.

  • Answer the telephone

  • Help patrons find items in the stacks and in the library catalog

  • Assist patrons with library printing

  • Other library-related tasks such as scanning books, paging books, preparing reserve books, and other duties assigned by staff

  • Assist with the opening or closing procedures in the library depending on shift time

  • Federal Word Study Award Letter

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Excellent customer service skills

  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions and communicate clearly with library users

  • Adaptable and consistent when notifying the supervisor of schedule changes

  • Attention to detail

  • Ability to interact with students, faculty, and staff of diverse backgrounds

  • Ability to work without close supervision or alone

  • Familiarity with Google Suite (Calendar, Gmail, Docs, Sheets, etc.)

  • Physical ability to lift items and push loaded book carts. Accommodations can be made if needed.

WORK MODE: This position is in-person and is based on campus to support effective in-person collaboration and engagement. #LI-DNI

Hourly Rate: $17.00-$18.00 per hour

WHY JOIN US?

The New School Library plays a central role in supporting the university's mission of preparing students to understand, contribute to, and succeed in a rapidly changing society, thus making the world a better and more just place. Our work contributes to this mission by offering consistent and reliable service to all students, faculty, and staff of The New School.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment based on race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The New School recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce

Responsibilities:

Students provide excellent customer service by assisting patrons with circulation services, locating library resources, and answering general inquiries. Support daily library operations through collection maintenance, opening and closing procedures, and other assigned tasks to ensure a safe, organized, and welcoming environment.

We look forward to receiving your application!