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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC

The Assistant Library Director will have direct oversight of the Circulation team and ensure that exceptional customer service is provided to all patrons. The Assistant Library Director will present ...

Youth Services Librarian

VA · On-site

$65K - $119K/yr

Plan, implement, and assist with library programming, including story times, programs, tours, and ... Regularly work at the integrated service desk and provide patrons with circulation, reader ...

Showing results 21-37

Library Circulation Assistant information

See Washington, DC salary details

$8

$18

$28

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Washington, DC is $18.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $20.14 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Library Circulation jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Washington, DC?

For Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Washington, DC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,569 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Library - Assistant Director

Manassas Park, VA • On-site

$62K - $70K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Assistant Library Director

This position reports to, and works closely with, the Library Director in overseeing the operations of the library. This is an ideal position and opportunity for someone with previous success in a supervisory position or an experienced librarian in the public library space. The Assistant Library Director will have direct oversight of the Circulation team and ensure that exceptional customer service is provided to all patrons. The Assistant Library Director will present the library to the community in a meaningful and enriching manner that will enhance the patron experience and increase visits and usage.

An individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily.

  • Manages both the Technical Services team and Circulations Services team to include hiring, training, scheduling, assigning tasks, motivating, evaluating, and development
  • Help manage library Collection
  • Supervises and provides leadership for day-to-day operations of the library
  • Develops, plans, promotes, and participates in programs and events
  • Gathers and maintains information/data to support periodic and special reports documenting activities for area of responsibility
  • Writes and implements program grants
  • Provides effective communication on procedures and processes to staff and public
  • Assists with the implementation of the human resources policies, procedures, and processes
  • Responds to and resolve patron issues, including account questions and policy enforcement
  • Maintains an attractive, organized, and well-used library, including creating displays, shelving order, providing thoughtful programs and events, and feedback to the Director on the needs of the community
  • As needed, work customer service points.
  • Know, understand, and administer the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement, and Freedom to View Statement, recognizing that freedom of access is a fundamental tenet of a public library; in addition to these freedoms, support client discretion of materials available at your local library(ies)
  • Follow all legal and policy requirements related to patron privacy and custodianship of patron records
  • Provides backup to the Library Director as needed
  • Performs other duties as assigned

An individual should possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed and meet the amount of education, training and/or work experience required.

  • ALA-accredited Master of Library Science or Master of Library and Information Science degree required
  • One to three years of public library experience preferred
  • Management/supervisory experience required
  • Experience tracking usage statistics, data collection and excel reports
  • Ability to build strong staff teams and develop staff
  • Excellent organizational, written and oral communication skills
  • Superior customer service skills
  • Accommodate a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends
  • Excellent technical skills, including a familiarity with Windows, Microsoft Suite, and knowledge of various technologies

Ability to sit for long periods of time and to maintain focus on projects such as computer screens or detailed paperwork.

Occasionally lifting of items weighing up to twenty-five (25) pounds such as files, books, and other materials.

Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)

Tuition Assistance

Retirement Plan (401k)

Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

Short Term & Long-Term Disability

Training & Development

Wellness Resources

Salary Range: $62,000 - $70,000

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.