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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$7

$15

$24

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Des Moines, IA is $15.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.73 and $17.36 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 Des Moines, IA?

The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Des Moines, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,394 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Library Assistant I - Part-Time

City of Clive (IA)

Clive, IA • On-site

$18.95 - $25.49/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist patrons with checking materials in and out, renewing materials, and using library resources.

  • Provide information assistance, technology support, and reader's advisory services to library patrons.

  • Prepare displays, promote library services, and assist with re-shelving and weeding of library materials.


Job description

JOB SUMMARY What We Are Looking for in Your Availability This position is expected to work approximately 8-15 hours per week. Available hours are (one weekend shift required): Monday: 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m

Wednesday: 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. & 12:30 to 5:00 p.m

Every fourth weekend: Saturday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. & Sunday, 1:00 - 5:00 p.m

Recruitment Timeline: Interviews: Week of September 7 City Council Approval: Thursday, September 24 Target Start Date: Monday, September 28 Under the direct supervision of the Library Manager, performs major and varied tasks in providing library service to patrons. Responsibilities include work primarily in the reference, circulation, and technical services areas and may include work in other library areas as needed. This position requires a high level of skill in customer service, daily work with the public, and the ability to do detailed work such as record-keeping and research.

JOB FUNCTIONS Examples of Essential Job Functions Provides information assistance, assistance with technology questions, program registration, and reader's advisory services. Assists with check-in and check-out of study rooms for patrons. Prepare displays and exhibits.

Actively promote library services and written and verbal programs to individuals and groups of all ages. Maintain confidentiality in all patron and staff interactions. Work at the circulation desk assisting patrons in checking materials in and out and renewing materials.

Work at the reference desk assisting patrons with their information needs by telephone, fax, or e-mail. Assist with weeding and withdrawal of library materials Recommend materials for selection. Provide reader's advisory service.

Instruct patrons in the use of the library catalog and other library resources. Assist with re-shelving of materials. Use computers, telephones, and other equipment to provide customer service.

Perform other duties as apparent or assigned. Regular attendance is essential for this position. EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS AND QUALIFICATIONS Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to use logic and science to solve problems with several abstract and concrete variables.

Ability to listen and provide requested information in person and on the telephone. General knowledge of customer service. General knowledge of library operations, collection organization, equipment, and staffing needs.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, co-workers, and the public; tactfully handle various social situations; good oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of relevant local, state, and federal regulations regarding library services and issues. Knowledge of safety precautions associated with public library services.

Thorough understanding of and ability to apply computing applications. General knowledge of public library organization and classification principles. Ability to perform all job duties safely and follow applicable rules, guidelines, policies, and training.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE Education Required B.A. or B.S. Degree of any kind, education/library science preferred Preferred Experience One or more years working in a public library Experience Required One year experience in customer service Required Qualifications Shall possess or be able to obtain a valid State of Iowa driver's license and have a good driving record for the past three years

PHYSICAL AND ENVIROMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS Required Physical Activities Reaching, Pushing, Pulling, Lifting, Fingering, Talking, Hearing, Seeing, Sitting, Walking, Stooping, Kneeling, Speaking, Climbing, Crouching, Standing, Grasping, Repetitive Motion. Physical Characteristics of the Job Medium work requires occasional exertion of up to fifty (50) pounds of force and up to twenty-five (25) pounds of force. Environmental Conditions The work is performed primarily inside an office and public service environment.

The job requires sitting and standing for extended periods of time, and the work may expose the employee to unpleasant social situations, significant work pace pressure, and, at times, irregular work hours. May frequently perform outside activities such as off-site programs, errands, etc. EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS USED Computer hardware and software, general office equipment, print and electronic reference materials, telephone, fax machine, postal equipment, copier, and auxiliary computer hardware.

The City of Clive retains the authority to change the job duties included in this job description at any time. The list of duties is not exhaustive, and various requirements are subject to possible modification as a reasonable accommodation for a qualified individual.