ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Northbrook, 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 ...

Northwestern University

Library Assistant 2

Evanston, IL · On-site

$10/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 ...

New

Northwestern University

Library Assistant 2

Evanston, 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 ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

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

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Northbrook, IL salary details

$7

$16

$25

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Northbrook, IL is $16.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.21 and $18.08 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 are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Northbrook, IL?

For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Northbrook, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Northbrook, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,690 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Circulation Assistant

Dominican University

River Forest, IL • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Position: Circulation Assistant
DEPARTMENT: Library
REPORTS TO: Circulation Coordinator
MAXIMUM HOURS PER WEEK: 15
OPEN TO: Dominican University Undergraduate Students
DATES OF AVAILABLITY: Fall 2026 - Spring 2027
Hourly Rate: $15.00
ITEMS TO INCLUDE IN APPLICATION: Resume, Cover Letter, and Class Schedule
EXPECTATIONS FOR ALL DOMINICAN EMPLOYEES:
To support the University's mission of preparing students to pursue truth, to give compassionate service, and to participate in the creation of a more just and humane world.
JOB COMPONENTS//PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Staff the circulation desk, check library materials in and out, and shelve the collection
2. Assist patrons with reserve items
3. Facilitate study room reservations
4. Answer directional questions
5. Direct all inquiries to proper library personnel
5. Perform other duties as requested, delegated, or assigned
BASIC COMPETENCIES: (Required knowledge, skills, abilities)
1. Knowledge of or ability to learn the Library of Congress and Dewey Classification systems
2. Basic computer skills
3. Good communication skills
4. Dependable
5. Must be enrolled as at least a part-time, degree-seeking student in a Dominican University Undergraduate Program
6. Must be eligible for US employment

Apply