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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Memphis, TN

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See Memphis, TN salary details

$6

$14

$22

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Memphis, TN is $14.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.72 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

More about Library Circulation Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Memphis, TN? For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Memphis, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Memphis, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Memphis, TN are:
What cities near Memphis, TN are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Memphis, TN with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Memphis, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $29,626 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

College Work Study Program (Library Clerk)

The Tennessee Board of Regents

Memphis, TN • On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Southwest Tennessee Community College is a comprehensive, multicultural, public, open-access college. Southwest has four campuses/centers from which it offers over 100 programs and over 20 technical certificate programs.
We foster student success, transform lives, and increase the educational level of a growing community in Shelby County. Southwest is a Tennessee Board of Regents institution, accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
We invite you to become a part of the Southwest Team!
Title: College Work Study Program (Library Clerk)
Employee Classification: Other
Institution: Southwest Tennessee Community College
Department: Library
Campus Location: STCC - Multiple Campus Locations
Job Summary
The Southwest Tennessee Community College Library team is looking for a dependable person to assist staff and students with clerical support in the library.
Job Duties
  • Cover scheduled hours at the circulation desk
  • Check in/out and renew library materials
  • Register new patrons in the Sierra system
  • Retrieve reserve materials
  • Answer and route phone calls
  • Monitor and maintain lab and study rooms
  • Assist patrons with copiers, fax and My Print station
  • Maintain paper supply for printers
  • Assist patrons with basic computer functions
  • Conduct monthly laptop/iPad login and report any problems
  • Read library shelves
  • Assist with annual inventory
  • Straighten/clean/dust tables, chairs, shelves, and materials
  • Work on special projects as needed

Minimum Qualifications
  • Must be a registered student of Southwest Tennessee Community College.
  • Only students who are approved for Federal Work Study are qualified for this position.
  • If you have any questions regarding this requirement, please reach out to the Financial Aid Office.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent customer-service skills
  • Basic computer skills
  • Familiarity with copiers, printers, and other office equipment
  • Good communication skills
  • Reliability and accuracy are the most important requirements for this position.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representation of the types of duties and responsibilities that will be required of positions given this title and shall not be construed as a declaration of the total specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.
Candidates who are called for an interview must notify Human Resources in writing at least five (5) days in advance of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.
First consideration will be given to current Southwest Tennessee Community College employees who meet the minimum qualifications for the position.
In order to be considered for the position, the following items must be uploaded:
  • Resume
  • Cover letter
  • Unofficial Transcripts

A summary of our benefits can be found below:
https://www.southwest.tn.edu/hr/benefits-overview.php
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
The TBR does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, or national origin, sex, disability, age, status as a protected veteran or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulations and by Tennessee Board of Regents policies with respect to employment, programs, and activities.
The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies: LeVetta Hudson, Vice President of People & Culture, myhr@southwest.tn.edu, 737 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, 901-333-5000. See the full non-discrimination policy .

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