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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA

Graduate Assistant

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$17/hr

Position Purpose Graduate Assistants (GAs) are integral in building community at SIA-NY in that ... Staff the Library circulation desk and use the library management system to issue, return and renew ...

Oversee library resources for students, staff, and parents * Catalog the collections * Assist in ... circulation desk, including check-outs, renewals and maintenance of patron records * Plan and ...

Private School Librarian

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Oversee library resources for students, staff, and parents * Catalog the collections * Assist in ... circulation desk, including check-outs, renewals and maintenance of patron records * Plan and ...

Reference Librarian

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$62K - $64K/yr

Professional library experience, internship experience, or library assistant experience providing reference, circulation, or customer service support. * Experience in a medical, health sciences ...

New

Showing results 21-38

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$7

$16

$25

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Reston, VA is $16.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $18.51 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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Reston, VA? For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Reston, VA 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 $34,532 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Reference Librarian

Library Systems & Services LLC

Germantown, MD โ€ข On-site

$29 - $35/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description

LAC Federal is seeking a Reference Librarian to provide high-quality reference, research assistance, and instructional support to students, faculty, staff, and community patrons through online platforms and at the library service desk. In this role, the Reference Librarian will guide users in effectively navigating library resources, including the online catalog, electronic databases, and print and non-print collections.


Additionally, the Reference Librarian may be responsible for other assigned duties such as gathering and analyzing usage statistics, delivering library instruction sessions, conducting student research consultations, and performing occasional circulation desk functions. Schedule flexibility is required, as the candidate must be available for hours of operation during the fall semester, including the library's evening hours. On rare occasions, if the building needs to close but services are still needed, the employee is expected to work remotely.


Employment Type: Temporary - Part Time/20 hours per week.ย 

Dates of Employment: ย August 31, 2026 - October 2, 2026


Schedule: Schedule may adjust depending on semester schedule:

Monday - Thursday, 3:00pm-8:00pm


NOTE: Monday, September 7 - MC Library will be closed.


Responsibilities

  • Deliver reference and research services to library users both in-person and virtually.
  • Assist patrons in the effective use of library technologies, databases, and research tools.
  • Provide individualized research support to students through consultations.
  • Conduct instructional sessions for classes, faculty, and other library users to promote information literacy and enhance research skills.
  • Maintain knowledge of library collections, both print and digital, to support user needs.
  • Capture and report library usage statistics as directed.
  • Collaborate with library staff to enhance services and contribute to special projects as assigned, such as creating and/or updating library guides and instructional resources.
  • Support circulation functions as needed.
  • Stay current with trends and emerging technologies related to academic library reference services.
  • Participate in professional development activities to maintain and improve knowledge and skills relevant to the role.

Requirements

  • Minimum of one (1) year of recent experience providing reference services in a public, research, or academic library setting.
  • Proficiency with electronic information systems, research databases, and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Familiarity with technologies used in academic libraries for reference and instructional purposes.
  • Strong knowledge of library practices and procedures, including reference and instructional services.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities in a dynamic service environment.
  • Strong commitment to customer service and student success.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Academic library experience.
  • Experience with Primo Discovery Service by Ex Libris strongly preferred.
  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while providing reference, research, and circulation services at a public service desk and conducting virtual or in-person consultations.ย 
  • Ability to use a computer and other office technology for prolonged periods, including frequent keyboarding, viewing computer screens, utilizing library databases, preparing instructional materials, and participating in virtual meetings or remote work as required.ย 
  • Ability to move throughout the library to assist patrons, retrieve and shelve library materials, transport items weighing up to 20 pounds, and perform occasional bending, reaching, and lifting associated with library operations.

Part-Time:ย 

  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Federal Holidays)

EEO Statement

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.ย 

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.ย 

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.ย 

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.