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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in DeForest, WI

Library Circulation Assistant information

See DeForest, WI salary details

$7

$16

$24

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in DeForest, WI is $16.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.12 and $17.88 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 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.

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in DeForest, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in DeForest, WI are:
What cities near DeForest, WI are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near DeForest, WI with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in DeForest, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,407 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Library Circulation Supervisor

City of Monona

Madison, WI

$63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description and Terms of Employment Under general supervision of the Library Director, the Circulation Supervisor manages the circulation department and serves patrons directly. The essential duties listed below are representative of those carried out by the circulation supervisor. Other tasks may be assigned if they are of a similar nature.

All library employees must be willing and able to work a flexible schedule including nights and weekends. The library's mission statement is "The Monona Public Library enriches lives by building community connections, fostering imagination, and opening up a world of ideas." We welcome all who will help us achieve this for anyone who interacts with the library. Duties and Responsibilities The following essential duties are representative of those carried out by the circulation supervisor

Other tasks may be assigned if they are of a similar nature. Supervises on a daily basis a staff of 12-15 part-time employees, ensuring a rewarding job experience and that staff work efficiently and to the best of their abilities. Participates in employee hiring, annual reviews, and, in consultation with the library director, resolve disciplinary issues that may arise.

Prepares weekly staff work schedule, schedules vacations, deals with unforeseen absences, and related scheduling issues. Delegates circulation responsibilities to staff members as appropriate. Participates in staff coaching and development, providing advice to staff and assisting in problem solving; ensures staff have opportunity to take advantage of continuing education opportunities.

Manages the circulation department, supervising transactions involving 250,000+ items and more than 120,000 patrons annually. Develops procedures for the orderly operation of the department; manages the workflow of the department for maximum efficiency and customer service. Manages the flow of material out of the building and back to the shelf; assures proper transfer of hold items, identification of damaged material, and other issues related to process and quality control.

Coordinates delinquent account procedures. Coordinates running and handling of issues from item and account management reports provided by South Central Library System (SCLS). Responsible for maintaining a high degree of customer satisfaction from the checkout desk.

Identifies aspects of good customer service; communicates best practices; monitors staff actions. Resolves elevated customer concerns regarding overdue or lost materials, fines, claims returned, circulation policies and related issues. Miscellaneous Staffs the service desk as required.

Prepares administrative reports as requested, including contributions to the monthly board report. Maintains a high level of professional development by participating in continuing education activities. Qualifications 3-5 years of library experience on library desk and circulation Supervisory and managerial experience desirable Knowledge and Abilities Ability to perform effectively as a team leader, coordinating the activities of several staff members.

Working knowledge of an integrated library system (ILS), preferably in a public library setting Ability to work independently and solve work-related problems. Ability to train new staff and assist existing staff in adapting to new procedures or learning to use new equipment and technology. Ability to explain and promote library services and to work with diverse individuals and community groups.

Ability to work cooperatively as part of a management team and to work closely with other departments of the library. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with both the public and fellow staff. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and establish positive, mutually supportive working relationships with other staff.

Knowledge of new concepts and technological advances and ability to relate them to public services. Ability to act as person-in-charge. Ability to use good judgment in evaluating situations and making decisions.

Minimum Physical Abilities: Ability to frequently move among shelves and to place books on shelves; shelves range from a few inches off the floor to up to 90 inches tall Ability to retrieve books from bins, sort them, and place them on shelves Ability to accurately exchange information with library patrons and staff in person and via telephone Far vision at 20 feet or further, and near vision at 20 inches or less Ability to move a cart of materials on wheels weighing 60 - 80 pounds Ability to operate a computer