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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Cleveland, TN

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See Cleveland, TN salary details

$6

$13

$20

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Cleveland, TN is $13.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.05 and $14.90 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.
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What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Cleveland, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Cleveland, TN are:

What cities near Cleveland, TN are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Cleveland, TN with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Cleveland, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,772 per year, or $13.4 per hour.

Library - Associate III - Youth Services

Library Systems & Services LLC

Ooltewah, TN • On-site

$16.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 hours ago

Job description

Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Library Associate 3 role is the senior role in the Library Associate job family and may supervise Junior Library Associates. The primary responsibility is programming and at the circulation desk, providing excellent customer service. A portion of the Library Associate 3 job may also be to plan and facilitate library programs and/or volunteer coordination. For this position we are seeking an individual with genuine enthusiasm for children, and a warm/approachable personality.

Hours worked per week:  40 

Note:  This is a set schedule that will require working weekends and evenings.


PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITES

An individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily.  


Plans and implements programming for youth of all ages:

  • Develops plans and activities for programming to encourage the use of the library for all ages, including early literacy programs
  • Designs and facilitates youth craft projects for programs and events
  • Conducts and participates in school and community outreach and special events
  • Collaborates with Friends of the Library, the city of Collegedale, and local businesses on events
  • Creates printed and digital content for youth programs in Canva for marketing and posting on the website and social media sites
  • Records event attendance for monthly program statistics

Plans and implements Summer Reading Program: 

  • Develops plans and activities for ages 0-12
  • Assist with donor outreach, fundraising campaigns, and grant development.
  • Selecting and Ordering books and prizes


  • Assists with Collection tasks such as annual inventory, weeding and interlibrary loan
  • Maintains Youth area in the library with regards to posters, book displays, and passive programming
  • Assists with large-scale youth events including, but not limited to, End of Summer Reading Party, Annual Escape Room, and Christmas in Collegedale.
    Serves as staff supervisor on their scheduled weekends and evenings.
  • Knows and understands the American Library Association's Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement and Freedom to View Statement, recognizing that freedom of access is a fundamental tennet of a public library. In addition to these freedoms, support client discretion of materials available at your local library.
  • Serves at the circulation desk checking items out, creating library card accounts, and answering questions as assigned
  • Other duties as assigned

Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS

An individual should possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed and meet the amount of education, training and/or work experience required.

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
  • Experience in teaching or programming with children 
  • Computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office 
  • Provides excellent customer service 
  • Good communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule that may include a combination of days, evenings and weekends


Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to frequently move from place to place within the location; file and retrieve books and other items on high shelves. 
  • Lift/push up to 25 pounds and occasionally up to 35 pounds. of heavy boxes, books, and equipment; work in confined spaces; walk; bend; stoop; reach; and climb.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental, and Vision)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness Resources

EEO STATEMENT

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. 

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. 

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.

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