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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Marion, NC

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Marion, NC salary details

$6

$14

$22

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Marion, NC is $14.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.15 and $16.49 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 Marion, NC?

The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs in Marion, NC are:

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Marion, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Marion, NC are:

What cities near Marion, NC are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Marion, NC with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Marion, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,794 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Library Assistant - Circulation Services Part Time

Caldwell County, NC

Morganton, NC

Part-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Part-Time Library Assistant - Circulation Services - Lenoir Library
Hours: Variable - No more than 19 hours per week, evening and Saturday availability required

Overview
An employee in this class performs specialized paraprofessional work requiring the application of current library techniques and appropriate technology. The library will train on library policies and software. However, basic computer knowledge is required. He/she demonstrates an enthusiastic, self-reliant and selfstarting approach to job responsibilities. Maintains accountability and a high level of courtesy, discretion, and tact when dealing with the public and other staff. Direct oversight will come from the circulation supervisor. The employee will primarily be responsible for sorting and shelving materials in order as well as providing customer assistance in person and via phone, checking library materials in and out, answering questions about library accounts, and directing customer questions to the appropriate departments.
A successful candidate for this position is strongly customer service-oriented with demonstrated experience in delivering service with courtesy, discretion, and tact in a busy and diverse environment. They should have, or be able to quickly gain a basic understanding of library functions, techniques, and technology. The candidate should be energetic, self-motivated, proactive, and team-oriented. They should be highly detail-oriented.
Minimum Education and Training
Applicants for this position must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma. Some college-level coursework in an applicable field with some experience in library work is preferred. Additional favorable experience includes:
  • Retail/restaurant customer service
  • Spanish language proficiency

Please submit a resume with your application.
Job Description
A part-time library assistant in circulation will primarily be responsible for sorting and shelving materials in order as well as providing customer assistance in person and via phone, checking library materials in and out, answering questions about library accounts, and directing customer questions to the appropriate departments.
An employee in this class performs technical and skilled administrative support work assisting patrons at the library’s main facility or at a branch library. Work includes providing customer service at the circulation desk, locating library materials, checking books or other media in and out, issuing library cards, collecting fines and fees, preparing books for carts, preparing library displays, shelving books and materials in their appropriate locations, maintaining the condition of materials, and processing material on hold for patrons. Work involves significant public contact requiring employees to be tactful and courteous. Work is performed under regular supervision and is evaluated for customer service effectiveness and accuracy of work activities through daily observations, discussions, and review of completed work.
Examples of (but not limited to) Duties Performed
  • Assists patrons in person; answers telephone, routes calls, and takes messages; answers questions; explains library policies to new and current patrons, including interlibrary loan, hours, programs, circulation policies.
  • Checks books, equipment, and library materials in and out.
  • Collects overdue fines for fees for lost or damaged library materials; makes change; maintains and balances cash drawer and credit card machine.
  • Organizes books and materials for return to shelves; examines condition and sets aside ones requiring mending and repair; sorts by number for shelving; shelves books and audio visual materials.
  • Removes items from the book drop.
  • Registers patrons for library cards; issues new and replacement library cards.
  • Notifies patrons of receipt of materials reserved or received through interlibrary loan; retrieves books and materials reserved.
  • Reads shelves for accuracy; straightens books and materials on shelves.
  • Depending on shift assignment, opens or closes the circulation desk.
  • Assists in keeping circulation desk area and other library areas neat and orderly.
  • Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • General knowledge of circulation and cataloging programs of the library’s computer system, and various types of informational materials in the library.
  • Working knowledge of library procedures, methods, materials, and practices.
  • Working knowledge of the library’s filing system and various types of informational materials in the main or branch facilities.
  • Working knowledge of computers, printers, and other equipment, in the library, and ability to use them in the performance of duties.
  • Working knowledge of the circulation and basic library procedures. Working knowledge of the theory and objectives of a public library system.
  • Ability to follow established procedures and to use standard library methods and principles in circulation services.
  • Ability to interact with large numbers of the public, volunteers, and with staff and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with them and with other employees.
  • Ability to perform a variety of tasks with frequent interruptions.
  • Ability to exercise tact and courtesy in frequent contact with library patrons of various ages and the general public.
  • Ability to type and operate a computer with accuracy.

Minimum Qualifications or Standards Required to Perform Essential Job Functions
  • Physical Requirements: Must be physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including computers, typewriters, copiers, printers, calculators, postage machines, etc. Must be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 15 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Light Work usually requires walking or standing to a significant degree. However, if the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work.
  • Data Conception: Requires the ability to compare and/or judge the readily observable, functional, structural or compositional characteristics (whether similar or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people or things. 
  • Interpersonal Communication: Requires the ability of speaking and/or signaling people to convey or exchange information. Includes receiving instructions, assignments, or directions from superiors.
  • Language Ability: Requires the ability to read a variety of reports, correspondence, forms, etc. Requires the ability to prepare correspondence, reports, forms, permits, etc., using prescribed formats and conforming to all rules of punctuation, grammar, diction, and style. Requires the ability to speak to people with poise, voice control, and confidence.
  • Intelligence: Requires the ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Verbal Aptitude: Requires the ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, to follow oral and written instructions. Must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in Standard English.
  • Numerical Aptitude: Requires the ability to utilize mathematical formulas; to add and subtract; multiply and divide; utilize decimals and percentages.
  • Form/Spatial Aptitude: Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width, and shape.
  • Motor Coordination: Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes rapidly and accurately in using office equipment.
  • Manual Dexterity: Requires the ability to handle a variety of items such as office equipment. Must have minimal levels of eye/hand/foot coordination.
  • Color Discrimination: Requires the ability to differentiate between colors and shades of color.
  • Interpersonal Temperament: Requires the ability to deal with people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Must be adaptable to performing under stress and when confronted with persons acting under stress.
  • Physical Communication: Requires the ability to talk and hear: (Talking: expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words. Hearing: perceiving nature of sounds by ear.) Must be able to communicate via a telephone.

Special Requirements:
NC Driver’s License may be required by some positions.