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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Library Program Specialist PT

Library, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS * Assist patrons with all facets of circulation services and effectively communicate library policies and procedures. * Assist with material collection activities. * On a ...

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$6

$14

$23

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Pittsburgh, PA is $14.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.25 and $16.63 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 are the most commonly searched types of Library Circulation jobs in Pittsburgh, PA? The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Pittsburgh, PA? For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,016 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

$12/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Library Assistant

POSITION SUMMARY 

Pittsburgh Theological Seminary seeks a part-time Library Assistant to support daily operations of the Barbour Library during the 2026–2027 academic year (Aug. 31, 2026- May 28, 2027). This customer-focused role provides front-line service to students, faculty, staff, and visitors by assisting with circulation, patron services, library resources, and general library operations. The Library Assistant also helps maintain an organized, welcoming, and efficient library environment through shelving, inventory support, and other operational duties. This position offers an excellent opportunity for desk-friendly study. 

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to the User Services Librarian the Library Assistant will: 

  • Welcome and assist library patrons 
  • Check materials in and out of the library 
  • Register new borrowers and maintain patron records 
  • Process fines and fees 
  • Provide basic information about library collections, resources, and services 
  • Oversee/troubleshoot photocopiers and printers 
  • Answer and route telephone calls 
  • Shelve materials, perform shelf-reading, and scan items for inventory 
  • Perform other library duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATION/REQUIREMENTS 

  • Availability for evening and weekend shifts; adherence to weekly assigned hours 
  • Able to provide friendly, professional customer service to library patrons 
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills in English 
  • Basic computer proficiency 
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established procedures 
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment 
  • Ability to comply with Seminary policies, including the employee dress code 
  • Ability to lift and carry books, push and pull loaded book trucks, and perform the physical requirements of the position, including bending, stooping, reaching, sitting, standing, and lifting up to 25 pounds 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

This position is part-time and is anticipated to work between 10-15 hours per week during the 2026/2027 academic year with a possibility of an extension beyond this timeframe. Note that this position will staff one evening shift (5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. weekdays) or a Saturday shift (10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.). 

SALARY 

$12.00 per hour. No benefits are associated with this position. 

TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and the names and e-mail addresses for three references to ------------ with the subject line Library Assistant. We will review applications as they are received; and applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. Pittsburgh Theological Seminary will conduct a background check on all final candidates. 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 

The Seminary affirms the commitment of the Presbyterian Church (USA) to a diverse workplace and equal opportunity. It also conforms to all applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to equal employment. No person shall be discriminated against in hiring, discharge, promotion or benefits because of race, color, sex, cultural background, national origin, religion, veteran’s status, non-job-related disability, or any other classification protected under applicable law.

INSTITUTIONAL SUMMARY 

Founded in 1794, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary is a graduate theological school of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Rooted in the Reformed tradition, PTS prepares women and men for ministries in established and emerging Christian communities around the world. With a centuries-old history of mission and scholarship in service of the church, the Seminary is committed to relationships of mutual learning and serving with Christ-followers from other traditions and theological viewpoints. Our faculty and educational resources cultivate theologically reflective and contextually engaged Christian leaders. Our programs nurture vocational formation for bearing witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our student body is comprised of Presbyterians, Baptists, Methodists, Episcopalians, Orthodox, and more than 20 other traditions from more than 30 U.S. states and countries around the world.