1

Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Duluth, MN

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Duluth, MN salary details

$7

$15

$24

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Duluth, MN is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.92 and $17.64 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 job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Duluth, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Duluth, MN are:

What cities near Duluth, MN are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Duluth, MN with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Library Assistant- Public Services

Universities of Wisconsin

Superior, WI • On-site

$12/hr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago


University Of Wisconsin System rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

262nd of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Current Students: If you are currently employed or enrolled as a student at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process. Workday Internal Jobs Site for Students
Position Title:
Library Assistant- Public Services
Job Category:
Student Hourly
Job Profile:
Student Help
Job Summary:
Library Assistant- Public Services
$12.00 per hour
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Charge and discharge library materials
• Answer the Public Services desk phone, take accurate messages, and forward calls to appropriate areas
• Operate, provide basic instruction, and simple maintenance to copier and scanner equipment
• Assist patrons in basic access to the library catalog, databases, borrowing requests, and interlibrary loan
• Shelve and file library materials (in various forms) using Library of Congress call number order
• Retrieve materials from our collection for patrons, shipping, or projects
• Create posters for different library areas
• Assist in creating monthly physical displays within the library
• Maintain the circulation collections by shelf reading and straightening on a weekly basis
• Keep patron heat map statistics
• Search for materials reported as not on shelf
• Assist in mailing materials to distance education students
• Locate and prepare materials for borrowing requests
• Dust and clean the circulation area to maintain an organized work environment
• Be responsible for the public services area during evenings and weekends
• Additional library duties as assigned
Qualifications:
• Ability to communicate well with the public
• Commitment to patron service
• Operate basic technologies
• Filing ability
• Ability to follow precise directions
• Attention to detail
• Library experience not necessary
Notice to New Employees: Employment will require a criminal background check. A pending criminal charge or conviction will not necessarily disqualify an applicant. In compliance with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act, the University does not discriminate on the basis of arrest or conviction record.
Key Job Responsibilities:
Department:
Compensation:
Required Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Education:
How to Apply:
Contact Information:
UW-Superior, A Superior Place:
The University will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identities of 'final candidates' must be revealed upon request. According to the Attorney General, 'final candidates' under Wisconsin law means the five candidates who are considered most qualified for the position. See Wis. Stat. Sec. 19.36(7)(a).
Employment will require a criminal background check, and if you have prior work history within the last seven years with Universities of Wisconsin or State of Wisconsin agencies, a personnel file review check for employee misconduct. It will also require your references to answer questions regarding employee misconduct, sexual violence and sexual harassment. The University reserves the right to check references with notice given to the candidates at the appropriate time in the process.
Employment is subject to federal laws that require verification of identity and legal right to work in the United States as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act.
For UW-Superior campus safety information and crime statistics, review the Annual Security Report or contact the University Police Department Safety at 715-394-8114 for a printed copy.
UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

What University Of Wisconsin System employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom