ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Manhattan, IL

Northwestern University

Library Assistant 2

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.42 - $23.40/hr

Law Library Salary/Grade: NEX/10 Target hiring range for this position will be between $18.42- $23 ... Circulation and Access * Performs full range of circulation functions including charging and ...

Joliet Public Library

Circulation Clerk

Joliet, IL

$17/hr

Basic Circulation Functions Starting pay is $17 and it's a 20 hours per week. * Execute opening and ... Patron Assistance * Assist library users in locating and placing holds on local and system ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLibrary Circulation JobsLibrary Circulation Assistant JobsLibrary Circulation Assistant Jobs in Manhattan, IL

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Manhattan, IL salary details

$7

$16

$25

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Manhattan, IL is $16.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $18.56 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.
More about Library Circulation Assistant jobs

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Manhattan, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Manhattan, IL are:

What cities near Manhattan, IL are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Manhattan, IL with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you

Library Circulation Assistant

Prairie State College

Chicago Heights, IL

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Number H0503P Classification Part-Time Position Number Position Title Library Circulation Assistant Status of Position Part-Time FLSA Non Exempt Position Summary
Circulates library materials and provides general library services to library users.
Reporting Relationship
Direct reporting relationship to the Director of Library Services.
Essential Responsibilities
  1. Circulates materials and equipment from the library.
  2. Retrieves materials from behind the library circulation desk (magazines, A/V materials, reserves) for library users.
  3. Creates and edits PSC patron records in the automated circulation system.
  4. Assists students with using the online catalog and locating materials within the library.
  5. Collects monies from library users including, but not limited to, service fees, overdue fines and replacement costs for library materials.
  6. Assists with the operation of the public copy machines and ensures the copy machines and library printers are operational.
  7. Shelves materials, reads assigned shelves daily and completes shelf reading forms.
  8. Maintains library organization and cleanliness; gathers materials for counting in house use.
  9. Schedules and provides access to student study rooms.
  10. Tracks daily patron count throughout the day.
  11. Enforces library policies and procedures; contacts security to assist with maintaining an academic atmosphere as necessary.
  12. Assists in the computer lab with basic tech questions (e.g. printing, e-mail, WebAdvisor, D2L).
  13. Performs other duties and special projects as assigned consistent with the role of this position.

Other Duties and Responsibilities Minimum Qualifications
  1. High School Diploma and 2 years customer service work experience.
  2. Ability to use the automated circulation system, online catalog and other computer based applications.
  3. Demonstrated oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  1. Associate's Degree.
  2. Work experience in a school or community college setting.
  3. Work experience in an academic or public library.
  4. Experience with the Microsoft Office Suite of computer programs.

Anticipated Work Hours and Days Salary $15/hr. Benefits
N/A
Posting Date 08/05/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
All applications must be submitted electronically.

Apply