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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Robins, IA

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See Robins, IA salary details

$6

$14

$22

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Robins, IA is $14.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.91 and $16.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 qualifications are needed to be a library circulation assistant?

Library circulation assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong customer service skills, basic computer proficiency, and attention to detail are important; some positions may require familiarity with library management systems. Additional certifications are generally not required but can be beneficial.
More about Library Circulation Assistant jobs

What cities near Robins, IA are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Robins, IA with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Robins, IA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% As Needed, 13% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 49% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,098 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

Patron Services Support Staff - Fulltime

City of Marion, Iowa

Marion, IA • On-site

$19.46/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Deadline for applications is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026.


JOB INFORMATION

Job Title: Patron Services Support Staff

Department: Library

Bargaining Unit: Non-Bargaining

Reports to Position: Patron Services Manager

Pay Grade:Grade 2

Location: Marion Public Library

Overtime Status: Hourly - Paid Overtime

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt


JOB SUMMARY

This is a full-time, paraprofessional public customer service specialist position that requires knowledge of professional practice and independent judgement in its application, as well as the application of prescribed procedures and methods. The Patron Services Support Staff member assists the library's diverse patron population at the full range of public service desks throughout the library and on the Bookmobile, and undertakes additional projects related to library services as required. Scheduled hours may vary weekly, including evening and weekend shifts. The Patron Services Support Staff member reports to the Patron Services Manager and works under the supervision of the Patron Services Leads.


ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED

The primary responsibility of this position is to serve patrons at the Information (Circulation) desk and other public desks, including the Reference desk, Technology desk, Children's desk, Teen desk, and at the Drive-Up window, as well as periodic work on the library's Bookmobile. Desk duties include but are not limited to:

  • Identifying and retrieving collection and account information needed by patrons.
  • Assisting patrons with access to the library's physical and digital collections.
  • Conducting patron record queries, placing holds, facilitating materials transfer between library networks, and assisting patrons with placing ILL requests.
  • Creating new patron accounts.
  • Mediating and resolving patron disputes, complaints, and inquiries related to library policies and procedures.
  • Facilitating patron access to library technologies and online services, including troubleshooting printers, copiers, computers and online resources.
  • Providing Readers' Advisory.
  • Processing, sorting and routing library materials.
  • Handling cash register transactions and resolving patron charges.
  • Upholding library policies in all areas of the library and on the Bookmobile.

Other responsibilities and tasks will include:

  • Responsibility for working with Youth Services staff to support teen patrons, and shifts managing and/or working in the Teen Room and Area, including at peak times.
  • Supporting the Patron Services Manager and Leads in training, mentoring, and coaching part-time Patron Services staff.
  • Internal and external continuing professional development activities.
  • Participating in library staff meetings and training sessions.
  • Providing occasional support for MarkerSpace-related activities and programs.
  • Providing minor maintenance and cleaning duties as required.
  • Off-desk activities as required, including assigned projects to support library services and enhance the patron experience.

The Patron Services Support Staff member will be expected to undergo Bookmobile driving training and may be rostered to drive the Bookmobile on a contingency basis as well as register as a Notary Public and carry out notarial duties.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

  • Strong customer services skills.
  • Ability to respond to a diverse range of patron needs.
  • Act with integrity, professionalism and respect.
  • Display empathy, patience, flexibility and curiosity.
  • Communicate clearly and appropriately with patrons and peers.
  • Possess knowledge of professionally curated print and online resources and information retrieval.
  • Able to conduct reference interviews to determine patrons' information and/or other needs.
  • Familiar with fiction and non-fiction books, media and resources and popular culture references.
  • Able to use and explain standard office software, web browsers and apps.
  • Familiar with computers, printers, copiers, and personal mobile devices (e.g. e-readers, tablets, smart phones).
  • Able to work under minimum supervision, including reflecting upon own performance and being self-motivated to improve.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & PHYSICAL ABILITIES

    • Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time.
    • Ability to bend, stoop, reach, stand, push, pull as required.
    • Physical agility, strength and dexterity necessary for handling library materials, including but not limited to retrieving, shelving, lifting, and moving library materials.
    • Ability to utilize a keyboard, mouse, and touchpad.
    • Ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
    • Interpersonal skills and cognitive flexibility to interface with a variety of internal and external customers in diverse, sometimes high-stress, situations.
    • Executive functioning skills appropriate for a busy, fast-paced environment.

    Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

    QUALIFICATIONS

    • Basic computer skills and familiarity with internet information retrieval are required.
    • Graduation from an accredited two-year or four-year college or university is preferred. High School Diploma or equivalent required.
    • Public library experience is preferred.
    • Iowa Driving License, or able to obtain within 30 days of hire.
    • Eligible for appointment as a Notary Public in the State of Iowa.
    • Obtain Iowa State Library accreditation within 1 year of hire.


    WORKING CONDITIONS

    • Works in an office environment.
    • Overtime may be required of the position depending on demand of workload.
    • The Marion Public Library is a busy, customer-focused library with a high amount of use by patrons of all ages. Patrons have high expectations regarding the quality and efficiency of library service.
    • Evening and weekend work is required.
    • Regularly works with and has access to patron records that are confidential according to the Code of Iowa.


    REQUIRED BACKGROUND CHECKS

    • Sex Offender Registry
    • Criminal Background Checks
    • Driving Records Check
    • Drug Screening

    Apply