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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Springfield, MA

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$7

$15

$24

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Springfield, MA is $15.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.97 and $17.74 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.

What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Springfield, MA? For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Springfield, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Springfield, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,077 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Library & Academic Resource Specialist (Digital Learning & AI Literacy) (Part-Time)

Library & Academic Resource Specialist (Digital Learning & AI Literacy) (Part-Time)

Bay Path University

Longmeadow, MA โ€ข On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Part-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY: The Library & Academic Resource Specialist (Digital Learning & AI Literacy) provides reference and information literacy instruction services to students, faculty, and staff of the University and plays a central role in advancing undergraduate and graduate student success through instruction, outreach, and academic support focused on digital literacy and technology use, including navigating the effective and ethical use of digital and AI tools in research and academic work.
HOURS: Sunday 11:30AM-8:00PM, Monday-Thursday 5:00PM- 8:00PM
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Provide traditional and electronic reference desk service, including the use of print and electronic resources, to students, faculty, and staff of the University.
  • Design digital literacy and library instruction classes or courses for students, faculty, and staff.
  • Conduct in-person and virtual class visits, workshops, and instructional sessions focused on research skills, information literacy, digital literacy, academic integrity, and responsible use of AI and emerging technologies.
  • Collaborate with faculty to carry out and assess the University's information literacy program and integrate library resources and services with instruction.
  • Design and prepare documentation to assist library users in identifying,
    locating, evaluating, and using all types and formats of information resources.
  • Develop instructional materials, such as web-based bibliographic guides, pathfinders, and tutorials.
  • Participate in projects designed to increase campus-wide awareness and use of library resources and services.
  • Plan and implement Sunday programming designed to increase student engagement with library services.
  • Serve as a campus resource on emerging artificial intelligence tools for research and academic libraries by developing programming, consultations, and guidance for students and faculty.
  • Collaborate with faculty, instructional designers, and campus AI leaders to align library guidance on emerging artificial intelligence tools with institutional initiatives, academic integrity standards, and evolving teaching practices.
  • Maintain currency in reference and instruction by reading professional literature, participating in professional organizations, and attending meetings relevant to academic librarianship.
  • Assist in routine library duties, including circulation and collection maintenance.
  • Attend trainings as required.
  • Attend and participate in required meetings.
  • Conduct special research projects as needed.
  • Complete any other assignments as directed by the University.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • MLS from an ALA-accredited program preferred. Bachelor's Degree required.
  • Demonstrated experience providing reference, instruction, and/or learning assistance in higher education and/or an academic library is preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to support students with digital tools, research processes, electronic information services, and emerging technologies, including AI-assisted learning.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects and assignments with high quality and minimal errors.
  • Demonstrated service-oriented attitude.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all members of the University community, including students, faculty, staff, and administrators.
  • Ability to adhere to University policies and procedures.
  • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and within FERPA and HIPAA guidelines.
  • All new employees must complete the FERPA, Anti-Harassment, and any other required online trainings within 15 days of employment.
  • General knowledge of the University's mission, purpose, and goals and the role this position plays in achieving those goals.