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Library Circulation Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Alabaster

Library Circulation Clerk

Alabaster, AL · On-site

$16.81/hr

The purpose of this position is to assist library patrons, particularly as it relates to checking ... Performs circulation desk procedures such as checking materials in/out of the library using an ...

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How much do library circulation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation assistant in the United States is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $17.79 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.

More about Library Circulation Assistant jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Library Circulation jobs? The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Library Circulation Assistant jobs? The top employers for Library Circulation Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Library Circulation Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Library Circulation Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Assistant jobs are:
Library Circulation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Locum Tenens, 58% As Needed, 19% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,193 per year, or $16 per hour.

Circulation Assistant - 95th Street Library

Naperville Public Library

Naperville, IL • On-site

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary: $15.50/Hr.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Circulation Assistant provides consistent, accurate, and timely handling of Library materials for circulation. Contributes to the general order and care of facilities and Library materials.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Performs all circulation and shelving activities for the library, including check-in and review of materials, files and maintains the Hold shelves, clears lobby and drive-thru return bins, processes and sorts new materials, prepares materials for transit, unloads and shelves book carts, updates item record status, records statistics, completes reports, assists with shifting projects and shelf reads.
  • Performs workroom opening and closing tasks following departmental procedures.
  • Prepares book drops for daily, weekend and extended closures.
  • Performs paging list fulfillment, generates Hold lists, pulls and files materials, maintains the Holds area, reviews and processes Holds, and reconciles problem items.
  • Reviews and processes LINKin and Inter Library Loan items.
  • Reviews materials, routes damaged and mislabeled items to appropriate departments, ensuring the quality of the collection; addresses non-Library returned items.
  • Supports curbside service and used materials/donations.
  • Assists with lost and found materials following guidelines.
  • Monitors, collects and returns materials to appropriate public areas ensuring an orderly environment.
  • Keeps up to date with departmental and Library communications.
  • Responds on occasion to customer requests, referring to appropriate Library staff; assists with monitoring conduct within the library, alerts PIC (Person-in-Charge) if necessary.
  • Troubleshoots and completes appropriate paperwork for workroom and material issues.
  • Collaborates on programs/projects with staff, occasionally at other locations.
  • Completes Library training and attends professional development opportunities.
  • Performs other related duties and special projects as assigned.


KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

  • Ability to use basic relevant computer programs such as Microsoft Office and Outlook.
  • Uses computer software and common office equipment to complete tasks; keeps current in relevant technology.
  • Interacts with customers and staff courteously, skillfully and with accuracy.
  • Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication in responding to customers and staff.
  • Uses problem solving skills in determining priorities, finds timely solutions to departmental or system wide issues.
  • Service oriented with the ability to establish, support, and maintain effective relationships with staff/customers.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills; completes assignments and projects in a timely manner.
  • Takes responsibility for consistent completion and follow-up on all tasks/assignments.
  • Maintains confidentiality and professionalism in situations.
  • Responsive to change and demonstrates adaptability.
  • Maintains a positive approach in tasking and in adverse situations.
  • Demonstrates a broader understanding of the job and suggests improvement in Library services and workflow.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum two years of customer service experience.
  • Bilingual proficiency a plus.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Communicate with staff and customers in person, via email and over the phone.
  • May require either being in a stationary position or moving about for prolonged periods.
  • Repetitive tasking, standing, bending for extended periods of time may be possible.
  • Moves equipment or library materials weighing up to 50 lbs.
  • Must have reliable means of transportation to attend meetings, conferences, and perform work in other locations.



BENEFITS

The benefits for this position include:

  • Annual Vacation Accrual: 2 weeks per year
  • Holidays: 7 days per year
  • Annual Sick Accrual: 12 days per year
  • Up to 5 Personal Days per calendar year prorated based on the hire date.
  • Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (Pension Plan)
  • 12 weeks paid parental leave
  • Training and developmental opportunities

WORK SCHEDULE:

Monday 5 - 9 p.m.

Tuesday 1 - 5 p.m.

Wednesday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Thursday 12:30 - 4:30 p.m.


Friday OFF

2 Sat/mo. 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

2 Sun/mo. 1 - 5 p.m.


To learn more about us, go tohttps://www.naperville-lib.org/jobsandDiversity, Equity & Inclusion | Naperville Public Library, IL (naperville-lib.org)