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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in State College, PA

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See State College, PA salary details

$7

$15

$24

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in State College, PA is $15.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.73 and $17.40 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.
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Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,462 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Engineering Library Part Time Libraries Support

University Park, PA • On-site

Penn State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

234th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Penn State Universityexternal

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Penn State Engineering Library located in the ECoRE Building on the University Park Campus is currently looking for staff who are available beginning in the Fall 2026 semester and continuing into Spring 2027 and beyond. Currently, we are looking for applicants who can work on Wednesdays with morning and afternoon availability on other days as well. This is a part-time position that will work on an assigned weekly schedule with the option to take extra shifts. Hours and schedule for each semester will vary.
The ideal candidate is a warm and outgoing team member with a strong work ethic and a firm commitment to providing the best possible user experience. Excellent communication, interpersonal and active listening skills along with the ability to interact comfortably with technology are preferred. Training will be provided for the catalog and operating systems.
Required Materials:
  • A resume and cover letter must be attached to your application to be considered.
  • Your resume should include any past work, community service, and educational experience, especially those relevant to this position.
  • Your cover letter should act as an introduction to you, why you are interested in the position, and what skills and experience you would bring to our team.
  • Please include your availability. This should include days and times you are able to work, taking into consideration commitments that may conflict with your work schedule.

Responsibilities
  • Charge and discharge library materials using the library circulation system
  • Answer directional, informational and basic reference questions
  • Provide basic instruction in patron use of the library catalog and subject databases
  • Assist patrons in locating materials, including e-resources and Course Reserves
  • Refer patrons to subject specialists or full-time staff as needed
  • Enforce the Libraries Code of Conduct and the Lending Code
  • Open/Close the library as needed
  • Collect user statistics (room or patron counts, types of questions asked)
  • Assist with and help plan outreach and engagement events
  • Assist patrons in use of equipment and troubleshoot technology
  • In the absence of full-time staff, resolve problems with patron behavior, physical plant, and security

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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