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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$7

$16

$25

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Portland, OR is $16.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.16 and $18.03 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 are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Portland, OR? For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,655 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Student Library Assistant 1

Student Library Assistant 1

University of Western States

Portland, OR • On-site

$16.30/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Description:
University of Western States
Job Description
Position: Library Student Worker I
Department: Library
Classification: Student - U.S. Federal Work Study
Estimated hours: 1-10 hours a week (depending on scheduling)
Compensation: $16.30 per hour
Number of positions available: multiple
Reports to: Access Services Coordinator
Summary Description:
The Library Student Worker will be responsible for circulation duties and other tasks as assigned in support of the UWS Library.
Specific Duties:
Provide staffing at the library circulation desk, perform check-in and checkout of all library materials, assist library users with directional and ready-reference questions, and help maintain library space.
Primary Duties:
  • Perform check-in and checkout of all library materials including:

  • Main collection, models, and study aides

  • Reserve materials

  • Items held for library patrons obtained from other libraries

  • Computers, iPads, and other electronics

  • Open/close library as necessary. May provide primary staffing for short periods in case of library staff outages.

  • Assist library users with directional and ready-reference questions such as:

  • Library policies

  • Library hours

  • Locating journals and books

  • Minor computer, printer/copier, and equipment maintenance.

  • Stacks maintenance (re-shelving, shelf reading, dusting materials)

  • Light cleaning (e.g. cleaning plastic models, wiping down computer screens)

  • Maintains order in Library and is alert to safety issues

  • Assist with special projects such as inventory

Qualifications:
  • Be enrolled in the UWS DC or NMD program

  • Be qualified for federal work-study program

  • Be able to work independently

  • Be reliable

  • Be an effective communicator orally and in writing

University of Western States offers a generous compensation and benefits package, as well as the opportunity to work for a leader in the field of education. To learn more about our competitive benefits and additional rewards, including generous paid time-off, medical and dental insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, retirement plan with employer contribution, multiple flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, click the link below.
https://www.uws.edu/about/employment/
University of Western States is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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