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Library Circulation Clerk Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Clerk I - Circulation

Elkhart, IN ยท On-site

$14.84 - $18.57/hr

SUMMARY The Circulation Clerk serves patrons by issuing library cards and maintaining registrations; handling all transactions related to the circulation of library materials, assisting in collection ...

Circulation Clerk

Joliet, IL ยท On-site

$17/hr

Register library patrons, provide library cards, and maintain the online patron database. * Enforce the library's policies concerning the circulation of library materials. * Perform reserve book ...

SUMMARY The Circulation Clerk serves patrons by issuing library cards and maintaining registrations; handling all transactions related to the circulation of library materials, assisting in collection ...

Description Responsible for performing paraprofessional responsibilities in the Circulation section of the Library. Performs a variety of clerical tasks in assisting library patrons and maintaining ...

Library Clerk (Circulation)

Yorktown, VA ยท On-site

$40K - $47K/yr

LIBRARY TABB Opening Date: 05/15/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Description Responsible for performing paraprofessional responsibilities in the Circulation section of the Library. Performs a variety ...

Library Clerk (Circulation)

Yorktown, VA ยท On-site

$40K - $47K/yr

LIBRARY TABB Opening Date: 05/15/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Description Responsible for performing paraprofessional responsibilities in the Circulation section of the Library. Performs a variety ...

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Library Circulation Clerk information

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How much do library circulation clerk jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation clerk in the United States is $17.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library circulation clerk?

Library Circulation Clerks are staff members responsible for managing the lending and return of library materials, such as books, DVDs, and magazines. They assist patrons with checking items in and out, handle overdue fines, issue library cards, and answer basic questions about library policies. Circulation Clerks also help reshelve returned items and maintain accurate records of borrowed materials. Their role is essential in ensuring that the library operates smoothly and serves the needs of the community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library circulation clerk, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Circulation Clerk, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), barcoding technology, and basic office software is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills help you interact effectively with patrons and colleagues. These competencies ensure efficient library operations and a positive experience for all library users.

What are some common challenges faced by library circulation clerks, and how can they be managed effectively?

Library Circulation Clerks often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of patron requests during peak hours, handling overdue or lost materials, and adapting to new library technologies. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and familiarity with library management systems can help manage these situations smoothly. Building rapport with patrons and collaborating closely with librarians and fellow clerks also ensures that daily operations run efficiently and that any issues are resolved promptly.

What is the difference between Library Circulation Clerk vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary Circulation ClerkLibrary Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training on library systemsHigh school diploma; may require additional certifications or training
Work EnvironmentPublic library circulation desk, handling checkouts and returnsVarious areas of the library, assisting with shelving, customer service, and programs
Job DutiesChecking materials in/out, managing overdue items, collecting finesSupporting library operations, shelving, assisting patrons, and clerical tasks

The main difference is that Library Circulation Clerks primarily handle checkouts, returns, and fines at the circulation desk, while Library Assistants have broader responsibilities including shelving and patron assistance. Both roles require similar credentials and work in the same environment, but their specific duties differ.

Can you be a library circulation clerk without a degree?

Yes, many library circulation clerk positions do not require a college degree, focusing instead on customer service skills, familiarity with library systems, and attention to detail. Employers often seek high school diploma or equivalent, along with the ability to operate library software and handle daily tasks efficiently.

How much does a library circulation clerk make?

The average salary for a library circulation clerk is around $25,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and the size of the library. Many clerks work part-time or on a flexible schedule, and some positions may require basic customer service skills and familiarity with library management systems.
More about Library Circulation Clerk jobs

What states have the most Library Circulation Clerk jobs?

States with the most job openings for Library Circulation Clerk jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Clerk jobs?

For Library Circulation Clerk jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Library Circulation Clerk job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,783 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Library Technician - Circulation Clerk

Muscatine, IA โ€ข On-site

City of Muscatine
Public Administrationย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

$19.77/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

The Musser Public Library is hiring a Library Technician - Circulation Clerk. The Circulation Clerk performs general and specific library circulation functions, provides direct service to patrons, and handles clerical tasks. Patron service is paramount and situational awareness is the key to continued success in this position. As a Library employee this individual is an ambassador of the City of Muscatine and needs to exemplify superior patron service in an often fast-paced, highly variable environment. This position's schedule is 20 hours per week, which includes some evenings and weekend shifts. It reports to the Circulation Supervisor. This is an excellent part-time (20 hours per week) starting at $19.77/hour with some benefits including IPERS, vacation and sick leave, and holiday pay.
Responsibilities:

  • Provide exceptional service to patrons and assist them in the use of library facilities and equipment
  • Check out books and other library materials to patrons
  • Receive returned books and other library materials from patrons and ensure timely handling of materials so they are available for public access
  • Shelve and organize library materials onto proper carts
  • Issue and renew library cards
  • Process holds, including delivery, picklist, and holds shelf returns
  • Accept fees for lost and damaged materials
  • Inspect returned materials for damage and submit to technical services for repair as needed
  • Assist in resolving patron disputes in the absence of a supervisor
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
  • High school graduate or equivalent and one year of experience in customer service, or any equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Knowledge of current library practices
  • Knowledge of personal computers and related hardware, email, the Internet, office software, document imaging, etc., and other standard office equipment
  • Skill in checking information for accuracy and completeness and correcting errors
  • Skill in organizing and prioritizing multiple responsibilities within an assigned framework
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, patrons, and the public
  • Ability to learn computer programs or software and use them effectively to perform duties
  • Ability to handle high volumes of work
  • Ability to work with patrons in a friendly and tactful manner
  • Ability to excel as a productive and positive team member
  • Ability to communicate orally and effectively with patrons and other library staff in English, in person or on the phone
  • Sufficient physical ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods; to reach with arms and hands; to occasionally climb or balance; and to occasionally stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • Sufficient physical ability to engage in extended periods of repetitive use of hands and fingers
  • Sufficient physical ability to push or pull a full book cart and lift up to 25 pounds

Hiring Process
For civil service positions, applications are screened for minimum qualifications. Applicants meeting the criteria will be invited to participate in the civil service testing process.
For non-civil service positions, the hiring process is established in a manner appropriate for the position. It is the City's goal to successfully match the right candidates for the right positions.
It is the policy of the City of Muscatine not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, creed, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, religion, or disability. The City is an EQUAL. OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER, and recognizes the requirements of THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. The City of Muscatine has also made a strong commitment to employees and the public to provide a safe and drug-free work environment through the implementation of a DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING PROGRAM.
The CITY OF MUSCATINE has, and will continue to make, a reasonable commitment toward achieving the spirit and intent of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibit discrimination against the handicapped/disabled.