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Library Circulation Desk Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Supports reference and circulation staff by assisting with shifts at the circulation desk. Supports daily operation of the Library, including, handling incoming mail; paging and shelving library ...

Library Media Specialist

New York, NY · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Provide supervision within the library and coverage of library circulation desk as needed * participate in ongoing professional development to remain current on professional literature, best ...

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Library Circulation Desk information

See New York salary details

$8

$17

$27

How much do library circulation desk jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation desk in New York is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Library Circulation Desk Clerk, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and familiarity with library practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Proficiency with integrated library systems (ILS) like SirsiDynix or Koha and basic office software is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication skills, and patience help you assist patrons effectively and manage challenging situations. These skills ensure efficient library operations, positive patron experiences, and the smooth handling of library materials.

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

AspectLibrary Circulation DeskLibrary Assistant
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging checkouts, returns, overdue items, and patron inquiries at the circulation deskSupporting library operations, shelving, assisting patrons, and administrative tasks
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer library certificationsHigh school diploma; relevant experience may be preferred
Work EnvironmentFront desk area within the library, interacting directly with patronsVarious areas including circulation, shelving, and patron assistance

The Library Circulation Desk primarily handles checkouts, returns, and patron inquiries at the front desk, while Library Assistants support broader library functions including shelving and patron support. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in the same environment, but their specific duties differ.

What is a library circulation desk?

Library circulation desk jobs involve assisting patrons with checking out and returning library materials, managing library accounts, answering basic information inquiries, and handling fines or fees. Staff at the circulation desk also help maintain the organization of library resources, issue library cards, and may assist with shelving items. These positions require good customer service skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with library systems. Circulation desk staff are often the first point of contact for library visitors and play a key role in ensuring a positive library experience.

What are the typical challenges faced at the library circulation desk, and how can they be managed effectively?

Working at the library circulation desk often involves handling a high volume of patron interactions, managing book checkouts and returns, and addressing inquiries about library resources. Common challenges include efficiently resolving overdue fines, managing holds or reservations, and assisting patrons with varying levels of familiarity with library technology. Effective communication, patience, and strong organizational skills are essential for balancing multiple tasks and providing excellent customer service. Regular collaboration with librarians and other staff also helps ensure smooth library operations and enhances the overall patron experience.
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Desk jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Desk jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Library Circulation Desk jobs? Cities in New York with the most Library Circulation Desk job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Desk job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,314 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Senior Library Assistant

BANDANA

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$24.83/hr

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Senior Library Assistant

The Museum of Modern Art is currently accepting applications for a Senior Library Assistant for the Archives, Library, and Research Collections Department. Reporting to the Head of Library Services, the Senior Library Assistant concentrates in one or more of the following areas: acquisitions-related: searches, sources, and purchases; searches for duplicate materials; copy-catalogs using OCLC Connection; organizes all incoming material and distributes for processing; searches order suggestions, places online orders for books, records acquisitions information; remains within budget allocation; serials management: checks in serials; claims missing and late issues; prepares materials for commercial binding; maintains, initiates, and cancels subscriptions; acknowledges gifts; cataloging-related: supports cataloging management by performing limited copy cataloging and updating existing records with addition of new materials in OCLC and ILS. Additional responsibilities include: Provides service to Museum staff and Library patrons as needed relating to library circulation, reference, and services provided by the Library. Maintains stack areas, including assisting with space planning, performing shelf-reading, and troubleshooting any issues that arise within the print collection. Supports reference and circulation staff by assisting with shifts at the circulation desk. Supports daily operation of the Library, including, handling incoming mail; paging and shelving library materials; checking-in new acquisitions and checking for duplicates; contributing to the development and maintenance of circulation and reference policies and procedures; processing library materials with labels after cataloging; coordinating circulation activity in ILS and sending reminders to Museum staff; processing Inter-Library Loan requests for internal and external users. Participates in library-related projects as needed. Performs any other duties reasonably related to the functions described above.

Location: MoMA is hiring for a Senior Library Assistant Position in Midtown, New York City. Base pay starts at $24.83/hr. #TransparentPay #TransparentSalaries #NYCJobs #SalaryTransparency