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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs in Watertown, MA

Oversee circulation of all library materials and equipment using the automated system * Create or ... Maintain a neat and organized library environment * Assist technology department with equipment ...

This position is responsible for Circulation services offered during the hours of 8pm to 12am ... Charge out other library resources, including laptops and group study rooms, etc. to authorized ...

This role is responsible for coordinating reference and readers advisory assistance and collaborates with the Circulation Supervisor in planning the work of library assistants within the department.

Adult Services Librarian

Marblehead, MA · On-site

$1.2K - $1.4K/wk

This role is responsible for coordinating reference and readers advisory assistance and collaborates with the Circulation Supervisor in planning the work of library assistants within the department.

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Library Circulation Assistant information

See Watertown, MA salary details

$8

$17

$26

How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in Watertown, MA is $17.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $19.33 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 job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Watertown, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs in Watertown, MA are:
What cities near Watertown, MA are hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? Cities near Watertown, MA with the most Library Circulation Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in Watertown, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,100 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Albert Alphin Library Student Assistant

Berklee

Boston, MA • On-site

$16.97/hr

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

In order to participate in Berklee Student Employment, a student must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Current student at Berklee College of Music or Boston Conservatory at Berklee.

  • Enrolled at least half-time in a degree, diploma, or certificate-seeking undergraduate or graduate program. Summer is the only semester in which a student can maintain employment without being enrolled. In this case, the student must be pre-registered for the upcoming fall semester. This exception does not apply to fall or spring semesters.

  • Have a valid United States Social Security Number (SSN).

  • Remain in "valid" Visa status as applicable.

  • A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA. Students in their first semester can work, even though they do not have an official GPA until the completion of their first semester.

  • Federal Work Study student may apply.

  • In good disciplinary standing.

  • Must be located in the U.S.

For complete program details, please go to our website:www.berklee.edu/se.The primary duties of an Albert Alphin Library Student Assistant involve providing key assistance to library users at the circulation desk, located on the second floor of 8 Fenway.
Student workers play an essential part in keeping the Albert Alphin Library open during the semester and during breaks.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Performs circulation duties, including but not limited to:

    • Checking in and checking out library materials

    • Providing assistance to patrons with searching the catalog and retrieving course reserves

    • Shelving library materials

    • Stacks maintenance projects such as shelf reading

  • Answers simple in-person and telephone reference questions

  • Reinforces the spine, pages, and labels of new books for library circulation

  • Prepares outgoing interlibrary loan materials for shipping and picks up incoming mail

  • Other duties as assigned

Required Skills and Knowledge:
  • Responsible-minded and initiative-driven individuals who can adhere to a work schedule on a timely basis.

  • Strong interpersonal skills

  • Previous work experience in libraries or customer service are considered a plus

  • Basic knowledge of call numbers and library shelving locations

  • Basic computer skills, including knowledge of both the Google Suite and Microsoft Office Suiteapplications. Knowledge of music-specific applications, such as Musescore, Finale, and Sibelius, considereda plus

  • Able to complete all physical requirements of the job, including sitting, standing, and lifting boxes up to 25 lbs, with or without assistance

  • Must be able to work well with others and independently

Expected Hours Per Week: Hours range from 8-20 hours per week.

Expected dates and times of shifts: Staffing all library operating hours.

Hourly Rate: $16.97

Hiring Manager: Monica Ruiz