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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in O Fallon, IL

LIBRARY AID

Scott Air Force Base, IL ยท On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Library Assistant Shelves books, magazines, and other library materials ensuring all materials are ... Assists with circulation duties, customer accounts and service to include receiving requests and ...

Library Circulation Assistant information

See O Fallon, IL salary details

$6

$14

$23

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in O'Fallon, IL is $14.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.20 and $16.59 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 job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in O'Fallon, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in O'Fallon, IL are:

What cities near O'Fallon, IL are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near O'Fallon, IL with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in O'Fallon, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Summer. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,962 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

CIRCULATION ASSISTANT - RPT

St Louis Public Library

Saint Louis, MO โ€ข On-site

$15.82/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Circulation Assistant

St. Louis Public Library's Julia Davis Branch has an exciting opening for a Circulation Assistant at the Julia Davis Branch. This location offers recording studios, a digital maker's space, and job skills training to this busy urban service community. Our ideal candidates are comfortable working with the public and are enthusiastic, patient, and committed to providing excellent customer service. The Circulation Assistant will often be the first point of contact for visitors at the Library!

In this role, you will:

  • Assist customers with library cards and the check-out and return of materials.
  • Assist in preparation, delivery, and receipt of Library materials; receive payment from customers.
  • Provide reference assistance for customers via face-to-face and telephone interactions, including locating items in the catalog or on the shelf, as well as looking up information.
  • Provide assistance to customers with Library equipment.
  • Restock and shelve materials, including shelf-reading, as necessary.
  • Greet customers upon entering the Library facility.
  • Assist in developing and removing displays.
  • Assist in opening and closing the location.

You will need to be:

  • Friendly, patient, and able to multitask while assisting customers.
  • Organized, detail-oriented, and able to work with competing tasks and priorities.
  • Capable of effectively providing information and responding to questions from customers and staff.
  • Flexible, positive, and willing to work with staff and colleagues to successfully overcome challenges.

You will need to have:

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) with previous customer service experience.
  • Strong communication and organization skills.
  • Google Workspace (Google Docs, Sheets, Gmail)

Benefits Include:

  • Competitive salary range $15.82/hourly
  • Medical, dental, and life insurance
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and sick days
  • 401(a) Plan
  • 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Partial tuition reimbursement for approved courses
  • Professional development

Hours for this position are:

20 hours per week; combination of evening and weekend shifts, hours subject to change.

About SLPL:

St. Louis Public Library (SLPL) has served as a cornerstone of the St. Louis community since the mid-1800s. As a leader in urban innovation, SLPL blends its historic roots and extensive special collections with a deep commitment to modern technology. Operating 15 diverse locations, from the landmark Central Library to vital neighborhood branches, we prioritize accessible resources, dedicated outreach, and essential services for children. We strive to enrich the lives of all St. Louisans through strategic partnerships and a forward-thinking mission of lifelong learning.

About Julia Davis Library:

  • The branch was relocated to a brand-new facility at its present location in September 1991.
  • The Library broke with tradition by dedicating the branch in 1991 in honor of a living person, local educator and activist Dr. Julia Davis.
  • 15,000-square-foot facility with 2 meeting spaces (one auditorium & one computer lab)
  • A popular browsing collection of books, movies, games, and more!
  • The Julia Davis Tool Library, which allows customers to borrow home repair and maintenance tools for free with their library card!

About the neighborhood:

Located on Natural Bridge Avenue in the Penrose neighborhood, the Julia Davis Branch maintains a deep community connection rooted in the 1961 establishment of the Julia Davis African American Collection. Recently upgraded for 2026, the 15,000-square-foot facility now features the Creative Experience, a specialized makerspace and workforce development center, alongside a new Tool Library to support DIY projects and essential property maintenance.

To apply:

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply online and submit both your cover letter and your resume. Thank you!