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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Oswego, IL

Circulation Assistant

Batavia, IL · On-site

$17.02 - $23.02/hr

Circulation Assistant Department: Circulation Services Direct Supervisor: Circulation Services ... Check library materials in & out. • Interact with patrons concerning materials circulation and ...

New

Circulation Assistant

Batavia, IL · On-site

$17.02 - $23.02/hr

Circulation Assistant Department: Circulation Services Direct Supervisor: Circulation Services ... Check library materials in & out. • Interact with patrons concerning materials circulation and ...

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See Oswego, IL salary details

$7

$15

$23

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Oswego, IL is $15.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.44 and $16.92 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 cities near Oswego, IL are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Oswego, IL with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Oswego, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,571 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

$17.02 - $23.02/hr

Full-time, Part-time

PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description

Job Title:  Circulation Assistant

Department:  Circulation Services

Direct Supervisor: Circulation Services Manager

FLSA Status:  Non-exempt

Schedule:   Part - Time - 18 hours per week

______________________________________________________________________________

Job Summary

A Circulation Assistant will perform various circulation functions in a friendly and professional manner to a diverse patron base.

Primary Responsibilities

Deliver consistent, friendly, and professional customer service.

Check library materials in & out.

Interact with patrons concerning materials circulation and library cards, as well as answering patron's questions.

Open or close the department during an assigned shift.

Use various technologies such as cash registers, computers, and printers.

Answer incoming telephone calls, provide routine information, transfer calls, and take messages.

Sort returned books in alphabetical and numerical order on carts.

Help maintain the physical collection with shelving and shelf-reading.

Assigned Specialist duties during "off desk" hours.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

REQUIRED: Attention to detail is necessary. Position requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to the completion of a high school education. Computer experience is necessary. Ability to stand, bend, reach, squat, and move heavy carts loaded with books.

PREFERRED: Experience with SirsiDynix Workflows is a plus. One year of general work experience including contact with the public, preferably in a public library setting. College degree or some college coursework. 

Physical Requirements

The employee must frequently sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach with hands and arms, kneel, or get down on the floor, and climb stools. 

You must be able to move library equipment or materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a typical library environment. 

Salary

Range: $17.02 - $23.02

Benefits

The benefits of this position at the Batavia Public Library include:

Continuing Education Opportunities

Paid Time Off: Vacation, Sick, & PTO

Schedule

This position is 18 hours per week with the following schedule:

Part - time position that requires regular evening and/or weekend hours.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted from qualified applicants until the position is filled and should include a cover letter, current resume, and a list of three references with current contact information.Â