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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Pelham, AL

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See Pelham, AL salary details

$6

$14

$22

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Pelham, AL is $14.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.06 and $16.35 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 are Library Circulation Assistants?

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.

More about Library Circulation Assistant jobs
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Pelham, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Pelham, AL are:
What cities near Pelham, AL are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Pelham, AL with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Pelham, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,489 per year, or $14.7 per hour.
Student Library Assistant

Student Library Assistant

Highlands College

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Summary of Responsibilities:
The Student Library Assistant will support the daily operations of the Highlands College Library by performing a variety of technical, organizational, and public service tasks. Duties will include helping patrons access print and electronic resources, checking books in and out, and shelving materials according to the Library of Congress classification system. The primary goals for the Student Library Assistant are to work with the Faculty and Librarian to support the curriculum and enhance the educational experience for all students attending Highlands College.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Staff the circulation desk and provide library services in the following areas: maintenance and use of the College's integrated library system (WMS); access and maintenance of physical collections and course reserves; access, organization and maintenance of the library space, equipment and furnishings.
  • Assist patrons with access to physical collections and online resources.
  • Check books and materials in and out.
  • Inspect returned books for damage.
  • Sort books, publications, and other items according to the Library of Congress classification system and return them to shelves, files, or other designated storage areas.
  • Locate books and publications for patrons.
  • Explain library policy to patrons.
  • Retrieve information from online and print resources to help patrons find information.
  • Train patrons in the use of electronic resources.
  • Assist patrons using the copier, printer, and scanner.
  • Answer routine reference questions from patrons.
  • Refer complex reference questions to the Librarian.
  • Assist with collecting and reporting circulation and reference statistics.
  • Promote the use of library materials using various tools/techniques.
  • Assist with the evaluation and processing of donated resources.
  • Perform other duties as directed.
  • Available to work a flexible schedule, including evening and/or weekend hours.

Other Duties
  • Foster a culture of academic excellence
  • Affirm and uphold the Statement of Faith and the Core Values and DNA of the College, exemplifying all by word and lifestyle.
  • Support the educational purposes and objectives of the College
  • Observe and enforce the rules and regulations of the College
  • Participate in the social, cultural, and spiritual life of the College community
  • Support the College prayerfully on a regular basis
  • Promote the mission, values, and vision of Church of the Highlands

Qualifications
Personal Characteristics:
  • Good communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to perform tasks with accuracy, orderliness, and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work with limited supervision.
  • Ability to use and maintain the online catalog.
  • Demonstrates the following attributes:
  • Love God
  • Love People
  • Purse Excellence
  • Choose joy

Abilities & Skills:
  • Must exemplify a high level of customer service.

Education
Current Highlands College student in good standing Overall GPA of 3.25 preferred.
Extent of Public Contact:
  • High.

Physical Demands:
  • Moderate exposure to physical risk.
  • Good physical condition is required.
  • Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.

Direct Reports:
  • This position is not a team lead for any Highlands College teammates.

Apply