ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Joliet Public Library

Circulation Clerk

Joliet, IL

$17/hr

Basic Circulation Functions Starting pay is $17 and it's a 20 hours per week. * Execute opening and ... Patron Assistance * Assist library users in locating and placing holds on local and system ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsLibrary Circulation JobsLibrary Circulation Assistant JobsLibrary Circulation Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$7

$16

$25

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Chicago, IL is $16.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $18.32 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Library Circulation jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,220 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Circulation Clerk

Joliet Public Library

Joliet, IL

$17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform circulation desk duties including checking materials in and out, registering patrons, and maintaining the online patron database.

  • Handle financial transactions such as setting up and operating the cash register, processing payments, and reconciling daily receipts.

  • Assist library users with locating materials, using self check-out stations, placing holds, and understanding the online catalog.

Job description

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Basic Circulation Functions

Starting pay is $17 and it's a 20 hours per week.

  • Execute opening and closing procedures successfully.
  • Perform circulation desk duties including checking materials in and out.
  • Register library patrons, provide library cards, and maintain the online patron database.
  • Enforce the library's policies concerning the circulation of library materials.
  • Perform reserve book functions.
  • Answer telephone calls in a courteous and helpful manner, routing calls as needed.
  • Receive donations and distribute as needed.
  • Receive and ship library materials through the courier service and internal delivery channels.
  • Assist library users at the self check out stations.
  • Promote efficient and effective use of the library by assisting patrons in a friendly, courteous, and knowledgeable manner.

Financial Functions

  • Set up and operate the cash register.
  • Handle payment for all fees including lost and damaged items.
  • Process credit/debit transactions.
  • Handle money transactions for the Friends of the Library.
  • Close out the day’s receipts, count the cash, and reconcile the money from the cash register.

Patron Assistance

  • Assist library users in locating and placing holds on local and system materials.
  • Teach library users how to use the online catalog as needed.
  • Assist patrons with self check machines as needed.
  • Search for materials that have the status of claims returned or intransit.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Direct the actions of the circulation pages when a senior circulation staff member is not present.
  • File the music CDs, DVDs, and Playaways behind the desk when returned.
  • Distribute mail and check in courier and library delivery bags/bins of materials.
  • Search for materials that have the status of claims returned or intransit.
  • Empty the outside book drops as needed.
  • Assist meeting room users with bookings, open meeting rooms, and update schedules as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school graduate or equivalent.
  • Ability to use computers and word processing applications.
  • Ability to learn library automated circulation and catalog system.
  • Ability to relate to library patrons of all ages in a positive, patient, and effective manner.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with co-workers.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to communicate effectively.
  • Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position.
  • Ability to work a variety of hours, including evenings and weekends.
  • Ability to operate all equipment necessary to perform job duties.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

  • Accountable for providing accurate and timely information to patrons.
  • Accountable for following library rules and policies.
  • Accountable for courteous, tactful, and positive library service to patrons.
  • Accountable for completing work in a timely manner.
  • Accountable for keeping informed about all departmental matters pertaining to this position.
  • Accountable for enforcement of library policies and procedures.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Work is performed in a public library setting with minimal exposure to health or safety hazards. Substantial time is spent working on a computer. This work typically requires the following physical activities: sitting, walking, bending, stooping, reaching above shoulder height, finger dexterity, repetitive motions, talking, hearing and visual acuity. May have to lift files, supplies, furniture or fixtures on occasion. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.