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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Nottingham, MD

Experience using online library catalogs (OPACs) and library databases to search for materials, assist patrons with research, and manage circulation-related tasks. * Strong customer service and ...

Experience using online library catalogs (OPACs) and library databases to search for materials, assist patrons with research, and manage circulation-related tasks. * Strong customer service and ...

Experience using online library catalogs (OPACs) and library databases to search for materials, assist patrons with research, and manage circulation-related tasks. * Strong customer service and ...

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Nottingham, MD salary details

$7

$15

$24

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Nottingham, MD is $15.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.97 and $17.69 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.

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Nottingham, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Nottingham, MD are:
What cities near Nottingham, MD are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Nottingham, MD with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Nottingham, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,036 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Circulation Manager

Harford County Public Library

Jarrettsville, MD โ€ข On-site

$50K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Position:

Circulation Manager

Grade:

80

Department:

Circulation

FLSA:

Exempt

CBIZ Code:

145

Scheduled Hours:

37.5

Status:

Full-Time

Pay Type:

Salary

Revised:

06/26, 07/23,12/19, 3/19, 06/08

Public Service:

Yes

Essential Personnel:

No

Location:

Jarrettsville

The Harford County Public Library offers a competitive compensation and benefits package. Starting wage, depending on candidate qualifications, is between $50,375.00 and $61,715.00.This position is eligible for the following benefits: deferred compensation 457(b) retirement plan, pension plan, medical, dental and vision plans, employee assistance program, voluntary benefits, paid time off and more.

Position Summary:

The Circulation Manager provides management and oversight of library employees who come into direct contact with the public, ensuring high quality customer service at every opportunity. Responsible for the general operation of the Circulation department of the Level I designated branch, including supervising, scheduling, evaluating, and training circulation staff to ensure exceptional customer experience. Meets minimum public service hours as defined by Library Administration.

Essential Duties:

  1. Ensures the efficient and effective operation of the circulation department.

  2. Opens and closes the branch, as assigned.

  3. Prepares the money reports.

  4. Prepares pull-list materials and sends them to appropriate location.

  5. Performs circulation tasks as needed to include material check-in and out, repairing damaged items, registering customers for library cards, and returning books to the proper shelf location.

  6. Resolves internal and external customer complaints.

  7. Negotiates fines and fees in accordance with established policies.

  8. Books meeting rooms.

  9. Troubleshoots branch machinery and computers, as necessary.

  10. Prepares schedules to ensure proper staffing levels are maintained.

  11. Overseas and manages the branch office supplies.

  12. Monitors departmental budget.

Supervision Functions:

1. Serves as hiring manager and supervises assigned staff, as well as assigned volunteers.

2. Oversees the training of staff and volunteers, as assigned.

3. Administers the Performance Recognition System (PRS), the library's performance evaluation system, in accordance with published guidelines.

4. Approves annual leave and checks and tabulates timesheets for assigned staff.

5. Prepares monthly reports, meeting agendas, and monthly schedules.

6. Interprets and implements system-wide policies and procedures.

7. Schedules and facilitates department/team meetings.

8. Ensures staff receive and understand system and department communications via written or electronic format.

Standard Functions

  1. Serves on committees and participates in workshops, seminars, and training as requested.

  2. Represents Library at various outreach activities, as needed.

  3. Notifies Supervisor with suggested ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of personnel and procedures and system-wide goals and objectives.

  4. Learns new skills and technologies to retain proficiency in areas of expertise.

  5. Is dependable and punctual.

  6. Maintains a positive, friendly, and cooperative attitude and provides consistent customer service.

  7. Upholds all library policies and procedures as defined in Harford County Public Library's Policies and Procedures Manual.

  8. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

  1. Associate degree required including three (3) or more years of job-related experience and two (2) years of supervisory experience.

  2. Bachelor's degree preferred including two (2) or more years of job-related experience and one (1) year of supervisory experience.

  3. Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable criminal background report.

  4. Ability to work day, evening, and weekends hours.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  1. Knowledge of Circulation and/or Circulation Assistant practices and principles.

  2. Knowledge of customer service practices and principles.

  3. Experience resolving customer issues with an assertive, empathetic, and calm demeanor.

  4. Ability to operate relevant computer systems, including hardware and software and office machines.

  5. Ability to learn to maintain and organize library materials.

  6. Ability to train staff, volunteers, and other people as assigned.

  7. Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records.

  8. Ability to be adaptable, flexible, and patient with customers and staff.

  9. Previous cash handling experience.

  10. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.

  11. Basic math and language skills.

Reporting Relationship:

This position reports to the Branch Manager. Directly supervises circulation staff. May supervise volunteers.

Work Environment:

  1. Work requires occasional physical effort in handling light materials, up to 30 pounds, in non-strenuous work environment. For example, set up and take down tables, chairs or other equipment for meetings or events, pushing/pulling of library carts.

  2. Environment includes moderate noises (i.e., an office with conversations, photocopiers, and/or computer printers).

  3. Work also involves standing or walking up to 60% of the time.

  4. Requires sitting and using a computer and keyboard for extended periods of time.

  5. Observes safe workplace practices with uncluttered workspace, including office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls, proper lifting techniques, and following fire regulations.

  6. Ability to travel to branch/outside locations required.

Work Week:

Work schedule includes day, evening, and weekend hours.

In addition to the specific duties and responsibilities of this job, it is the responsibility of every employee to comply with the Harford County Public Library's Values statement, customer service guidelines, and all other policies detailed in the Policies and Procedures Manual.

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job. The library administration reserves the right to change, modify, delete, and supplement job duties based on the organization's needs.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

This and all library positions are eligible for system-wide transfer.

HarfordCountyPublic Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer.