Library Assistant
Reading, PA · On-site
Albright College's Gingrich Library is looking for a part-time library assistant who is ... Monitors circulation desk * Assists with training and providing day-to-day direction to student ...
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Library Assistant
Reading, PA · On-site
Albright College's Gingrich Library is looking for a part-time library assistant who is ... Monitors circulation desk * Assists with training and providing day-to-day direction to student ...
Library Circulation Assistant information
See Reading, PA salary details
$7.16 - $8.67
4% of jobs
$8.67 - $10.18
7% of jobs
$10.18 - $11.69
13% of jobs
$11.88 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$11.69 - $13.20
8% of jobs
$13.20 - $14.71
5% of jobs
The median wage is $15.58 / hr.
$14.71 - $16.22
22% of jobs
$17.25 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.22 - $17.73
23% of jobs
$17.73 - $19.25
8% of jobs
$19.25 - $20.76
1% of jobs
$20.76 - $22.27
3% of jobs
$22.27 - $23.78
5% of jobs
$7
$15
$23
How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Reading, PA is $15.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Library Circulation Assistant vs Library Clerk?
| Aspect | Library Circulation Assistant | Library Clerk |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer library experience | High school diploma or equivalent; minimal certification needed |
| Work Environment | Public library, school library, or academic library setting | Public or academic library, often in customer service roles |
| Job Responsibilities | Checking out/in materials, managing holds, assisting patrons with library systems | Checking out materials, managing returns, assisting with basic library tasks |
| Common Usage | Often used interchangeably in job postings and industry | Similar 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 Reading, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Reading, PA are:
What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Reading, PA with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Part-time
Posted 17 days ago
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Job description
Description:
Albright College’s Gingrich Library is looking for a part-time library assistant who is enthusiastic, collaborative, and dedicated to supporting student success. Reporting to the Library Director, the library assistant will manage and enhance the library’s core frontline services. Responsibilities include overseeing interlibrary loan operations, supporting library engagement activities, managing the library’s chat-with-a-librarian service, and assisting with the supervision of library student assistants.
Essential Job Functions:
- Participates in the statewide chat-monitoring service
- Prepares incoming and outgoing material for interlibrary loan
- Helps with outreach activities and library programming
- Provides customer service when assisting patrons with questions including but not limited to, circulation policies, patron accounts, course reserves, and technology.
- Assists in building operations, including opening and closing procedures
- Monitors circulation desk
- Assists with training and providing day-to-day direction to student workers
- Helps create and maintain library material displays throughout the library
- Assists in other job-related areas and special projects
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively with strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Effective oral and written communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to provide excellent customer service
- Ability to work effectively in a changing environment
- Demonstrated initiative and collaboration skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Demonstrated experience working in a library setting
- Demonstrated experience with research and instruction services
- Experience with handling social media for an organization
- Experience providing public services to individuals from diverse backgrounds
About Albright College
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Colleges, universities, and professional schools
Company size
201 - 500 Employees
Headquarters location
Reading, PA, US
Year founded
1856