ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Salem, VA (NOW HIRING)

All JobsLibrary Circulation JobsLibrary Circulation Assistant JobsLibrary Circulation Assistant Jobs in Salem, VA

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Salem, VA salary details

$7

$15

$23

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Salem, VA is $15.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.63 and $17.21 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 are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Salem, VA?

For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Salem, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Salem, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Salem, VA are:

What cities near Salem, VA are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs?

Cities near Salem, VA with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:

Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Salem, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,142 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Library Assistant II - Stewartsville

Bedford County, Virginia

Bedford, VA • On-site

$14.61/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description
Part-Time Library Assistant II - Stewartsville Library
The Bedford Public Library System is seeking a friendly, public service-oriented individual to work in the Stewartsville Library. Ability to work with groups of children and teens is required as well as planning and presenting a weekly story time for ages 0-3. Additional programming for various age groups may be assigned. Other duties include a full range of circulation desk procedures, shelving materials, assisting patrons with materials selection, responding to library policy questions, troubleshooting technology, and other duties as assigned. Past library experience is preferred.
The successful candidate will be comfortable with technology in general, able to learn new software, able to use Microsoft Office applications and basic office machines. The candidate should also be familiar with various digital devices and library-related apps, including but not limited to e-readers, iPads, and laptops. The candidate should be able to spend five or more hours daily at a computer screen; stooping, bending, lifting, and reaching, and be able to lift 25-pound bags/boxes of books and materials. Ability to follow written and oral instructions with limited supervision is also required.
Part-time, 13 hours per week including Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and alternating Saturday mornings. Library Assistant II is in pay grade 2 and requires an associate's degree or higher and starts at $14.61/hr. Additional benefits include the opportunity to participate in the Commonwealth of VA 457 deferred compensation plan
Position open until filled. EOE. The BPLS maintains a safe, drug-free workplace for its employees. A criminal background check, and previous employer references are required as conditions of pre-employment.
Disclaimer:
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. This is not an employment contract and does not alter any employee at-will status.
Bedford County, VA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Bedford County is a certified Virginia Values Veterans (V3) employer. We are committed to implementing nationally recognized best practices in recruiting, hiring, and retaining highly skilled and dependable Veterans. The V3 Program is an official Commonwealth of Virginia Program, authorized under the Code of Virginia (§ 2.2-2001.2).

Apply