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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in La Crosse, WI

Library Circulation Assistant information

See La Crosse, WI salary details

$7

$15

$24

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in La Crosse, WI is $15.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.78 and $17.45 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 La Crosse, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in La Crosse, WI are:

What cities near La Crosse, WI are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near La Crosse, WI with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in La Crosse, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,586 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Access Services and Technology Supervisor

La Crosse, WI โ€ข On-site

$56K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Position Title:Access Services and Technology SupervisorJob Category:Academic StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Lib II-Rsrc Mgmt & Data SvcsJob Duties:

This position functions as the principal manager of the library's Access Services unit and technology operations, which includes circulation, reserves, stack maintenance, student employee hiring, resource sharing, and interlibrary loan. It offers a great deal of day-to-day variety and is under the general supervision of the Director of Murphy Library. This position oversees opening and closing procedures and enforces university and library policies and expectations as they relate to employees and patrons. An ideal candidate for this position will be comfortable deescalating tense situations and resolving interpersonal conflicts.

  • Be active and involved on campus, UW System-wide, and in the community
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  • Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds
  • The ability to sit or bend down for extended periods of time
  • Significant amount of time operating a computer
  • Normal working hours Monday-Friday between 7am and 4:30pm
  • Evening and weekend hours as required

The review of applications starts onJuly 31, 2026.Applications received on or beforeJuly 31stareprioritizedand review will continue until the position(s) is/are filled. Initial interviews will be conducted virtually, with shortlisted candidates invited to campus.

UW-La Crosse does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term. If you have questions regarding this, please contact Human Resources at 608-785-8013.

Key Job Responsibilities:

Access Services

  • Supervise Access Services staff, unit operations, relevant policies, and procedures
  • Oversee building opening/closing, staff coverage and scheduling, and security, advising the library director as appropriate
  • Develop and maintain knowledge of trends and best practices related to access services and public-facing technology
  • Serve as a campus resource for copyright and fair use guidance, advising the university community as needed
  • Analyzes and reports on usage and unit statistics
  • Coordinate resource-sharing delivery functions with external partners (such as Winding Rivers, SCLS Delivery, etc)
  • Manage Access Services function related to Alma and other necessary integrated library software
  • All position responsibilities must also be maintained during evenings and weekends as required by operational hours and business needs, including staff coverage

Technology (in coordination with ITS)

  • Complete installs of new computers for public and staff areas. This includes all forms of hardware including CPUs, monitors, printers, CD-ROMs, and barcode readers
  • Troubleshoot the Library's desktop and laptop computers and printers in public and staff areas as needed
  • Oversee that all public area computers and printers are operational and ready for patron usage on a daily basis
  • Plan, execute, and maintain a cable management program throughout the library for staff and public areas
  • Report problematic ITS-managed public computers to ITS
  • Install, test, inventory, and troubleshoot Library-related software and licenses
  • Maintain an inventory listing of all Library computing equipment
  • Perform routine maintenance on scanners and other equipment
Department: Murphy LibraryCompensation:

$56,000-$58,000 / year to commensurate with experience.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution
  • 2+ years of relevant library experience
  • Knowledge of a variety of library technology and software applications (such as Alma, ILLiad, etc)
  • Team-oriented with record of success in supervising permanent, temporary, and part-time employees
  • Administrative and office skills
  • Strong computer skills to include knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite or comparable software.
  • Excellent communication skills (oral and written) and commitment to the provision of a high level of customer service, including the use of diplomacy and conflict resolution skills
  • Ability to interpret employment policies and procedures
  • Ability to set priorities and meet deadlines
  • Self-motivated with ability to exercise independent judgment
  • Skill in handling multiple projects simultaneously
  • Organizational and creative problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work effectively in an environment which embraces diversity
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree in associated field
  • Professional experience in an academic library
  • Knowledge of UW systems and procedures
  • Alma Administrator Certification
  • Knowledge of copyright and fair use principles
How to Apply:

Required application documents

Cover letter (that addresses the required and preferred qualifications)

CV/ Resume

Contact Information:

John Jax jjax@uwlax.edu

Special Notes:

Application deadlines
TO ENSURE CONSIDERATION: Priority consideration is given to those candidates who apply by the listed 'First Review Date'. Applications received after that date may be considered at the discretion of the search committee. Application materials will be evaluated, and the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process. Incomplete and/or late application materials may not receive consideration. If you have questions regarding this recruitment, or if you are not able to complete the application online due to a disability or system problem, please contact the Office of Human Resources.
Confidentiality of Applicant Materials
UWL is a state agency and subject to Wisconsin's Open Records Law. UWL will not, however, reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing except as may be required by Wisconsin's Open Records law. In certain circumstances, the identities of "final candidates" and/or the identity of the appointed applicant must be revealed upon request.
CBC & Reference Check Policy
All candidates for employment are subject to a pre-employment screening which includes a criminal background check, work authorization, and verification of education. It will also require you and your references to answer questions regarding sexual violence and sexual harassment.

Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (Clery Act)
For the UWL Annual Security and Fire Safety Reports (i.e., Clery Report), which includes statistics about reported crimes and information about campus security policies, see http://www.uwlax.edu/student-life/student-resources/annual-security-report/ or contact the University Police Department at 608.785.9000.

INFORMATIONABOUTYOURBENEFITS
Your benefits add an additional 40%+ to the overall financial package from the university.
Highlights include:

  • Paid vacation for 12-month positions.

  • Excellent flexible health insurance with low co-pays and good coverage.

  • Paid holidays and paid sick days.

  • After 5 years of employment, you become vested in our retirement system which ensures income post-career.

  • Benefits atUWLare highly competitive with local industry and some of the strongest in state and nation.


Benefit eligibility is determined at the point of hire. This information is provided for illustrative purposes only. Benefits are also pro-rated based on the appointment percentage.

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.