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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Northwestern University

Library Assistant 2

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.42 - $23.40/hr

Law Library Salary/Grade: NEX/10 Target hiring range for this position will be between $18.42- $23 ... Circulation and Access * Performs full range of circulation functions including charging and ...

Joliet Public Library

Circulation Clerk

Joliet, IL · On-site

Basic Circulation Functions * Execute opening and closing procedures successfully. * Perform ... Patron Assistance * Assist library users in locating and placing holds on local and system ...

Harper College

Library Assistant - Technical

Palatine, IL · On-site

$22.10 - $24.85/hr

... library statistics, curates data, and compiles reports to support student and library user needs ... Assists the Circulation Supervisor with the refreshing and upgrading of Technology Loan Program ...

Harper College

Library Assistant - Technical

Palatine, IL · On-site

$22.10 - $24.85/hr

Library service experience and evidence of organizational and multi-tasking skills preferred ... Assists the Circulation Supervisor with the refreshing and upgrading of Technology Loan Program ...

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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 Aug 10, 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 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 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 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 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, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,220 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Part-time Circulation Associate

Cook Memorial Public Library District

Libertyville, IL • On-site

$16/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an upbeat, amiable individual with great customer service skills and a flexible schedule to join the Circulation Department. This permanent, year-round position has shifts at both Aspen Drive and Cook Park Libraries. Multilingual ability welcome.
HOURS
Averages 17 hours per week and includes a variety of part-time day, evening, and weekend hours.

  • Wednesdays: 5pm - 9pm
  • Thursdays: 9am - 1pm
  • Three Fridays on a four-week rotation
  • Two Saturdays and two Sundays on a four-week rotation
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Check materials in and out to library patrons
  • Take payment for purchases and lost/damaged materials
  • Register library cards
  • Process reserved materials
  • Greet patrons and answer their questions
REQUIREMENTS
  • High school diploma
  • Strong people skills
  • Proficient with computers
  • Detail-oriented with good organizational skills
  • Stength to move library materials, bend, and stand for extended periods
  • Flexibility in filling additional shifts
  • Able to work at both Cook Park and Aspen Drive Libraries

SALARY & BENEFITS
$16.00per hour, 457 savings plan, paid time off and scheduled holidays, premium pay on Sundays. Cost of living and merit increases.
An Equal Opportunity Employer

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