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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Minneapolis, MN

Supervisor, Library

Blaine, MN ยท On-site

$64K - $90K/yr

This role plays a key part in fostering a welcoming environment, coordinating circulation and ... Empower and connect patrons to appropriate resources. Assist groups and individuals in locating ...

This role plays a key part in fostering a welcoming environment, coordinating circulation and ... Empower and connect patrons to appropriate resources. Assist groups and individuals in locating ...

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Minneapolis, MN salary details

$7

$16

$25

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Minneapolis, MN is $16.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.45 and $18.41 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 Minneapolis, MN?

The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs in Minneapolis, MN are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Minneapolis, MN?

For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Minneapolis, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Minneapolis, MN look for?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Minneapolis, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,647 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Student Library Assistant (Circulation) /Student-Only Position

Luther Seminary

Saint Paul, MN โ€ข On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Luther Seminary
Luther Seminary educates leaders for Christian communities called and sent by the Holy Spirit to witness to salvation through Jesus Christ and to serve in God's world. Our values are Gospel-centered, Student-focused, Innovative, Academically Rigorous, Inclusive, and Community Oriented.
Luther is the largest seminary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. We also educate students of 41 other denominations and traditions. Luther is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Association of Theological Schools.
Position Title:
Student Library Assistant (Circulation) /Student-Only Position
Team:
Library
Date:
8/26/2026
Position Status:
Exempt-
Non-Exempt-X
Reports To:
Circulation/Collections Coordinator
  1. PURPOSE

The purpose of this position is to assist library staff in serving our various constituencies and in maintaining the organization of our book stacks.
  1. KEY RESULT AREAS
  1. Circulation Desk Duties:

-check books in and out to a diverse community of library users
-interpret and apply library policies appropriately
-answer patron questions in person and by phone
-help library patrons find materials
-refer complex questions to appropriate staff member.
  1. Book stacks duties:

-re-shelve books
-shelf reading
-other tasks, such as shifting or assisting with book withdrawal, as assigned.
  1. Opening and closing duties for evenings, weekends, and other times as needed.

-Retrieve items from book drop
-Unlock library doors at opening
-Put away stray books and periodicals at closing.
-With security personnel, make sure all patrons are out of the library at closing.
-Lock doors, shut down computers, and turn off lights.
  1. Helping to maintain a safe and hospitable environment

-Assist patrons with wheelchair access via the elevator.
-With library staff, provide direction in weather emergencies.
  1. RELATIONSHIPS
  1. Reports to: Librarian
  2. Internal relationships with: all other library staff
  3. External relationships with: Office of Technology, Security, Maintenance.

IV. JOB SPECIFICATION
  1. Commitment to Luther Seminary's Mission and Vision.

The position requires a commitment to assisting students and other patrons as they use the library and its materials, as a basis for the fulfillment of Luther Seminary's mission to educate leaders for Christian communities.
  1. Desired education and experience:
  1. College degree
  2. At least one year of customer service-type experience.
  3. Library work experience preferred but not required.
  1. Desired knowledge, skills, and abilities:
  1. Ability to communicate clearly and tactfully, in person, by phone or by email, with fellow staff and library patrons.
  2. Strong attention to detail.
  3. Basic skills and comfort level with computers, printers, and copiers.
  4. Must have a friendly, helpful attitude.
  5. Knowledge of ELCA helpful.
  6. Familiarity with other mainline Christian organizations also helpful.
  7. Must be able to push a full book cart and stand for prolonged periods of time.

  1. DISCLAIMER

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the primary job responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodation. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being assigned to this job. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of individuals in the job. This job description is not an employment agreement and/or an expressed or implied employment contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this description at any time without notice.
The pay range for this role is:
16.37 - 16.37 USD per hour (Luther Seminary )