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Library Circulation Desk Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Wheaton College

AY Ast-Circulation

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$15/hr

Role responsibilities include providing excellent customer service at the Circulation Desk and maintaining the library's physical collections and spaces. This position pays $15/hour. Duties and ...

Joliet Public Library

Circulation Clerk

Joliet, IL

Perform circulation desk duties including checking materials in and out. * Register library patrons, provide library cards, and maintain the online patron database. * Enforce the library's policies ...

Northwestern University

Library Assistant 2

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.42 - $23.40/hr

... circulation desk equipment. Full schedule details below. General * Participates in other library support services involving collection processing, library records, and new initiatives, as needed.

Batavia Public Library

Circulation Assistant

Batavia, IL · On-site

$17.02 - $23.02/hr

... Check library materials in & out. • Interact with patrons concerning materials circulation and ... desk" hours. • Other duties as assigned. Qualifications • REQUIRED: Attention to detail is ...

Northbrook Public Library

Circulation Clerk

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$17.72 - $19.68/hr

... desk, assisting patrons with various inquiries, and performing essential circulation functions. This position requires a strong commitment to upholding our library's Service Standards and values of ...

Northbrook Public Library

Circulation Clerk

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$17.72 - $19.68/hr

... desk, assisting patrons with various inquiries, and performing essential circulation functions. This position requires a strong commitment to upholding our library's Service Standards and values of ...

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All JobsLibrary Circulation Desk JobsLibrary Circulation Desk Jobs in Chicago, IL

Library Circulation Desk information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$7

$16

$25

How much do library circulation desk jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation desk in Chicago, IL is $16.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Is it hard to get hired at the library?

Getting hired as a library circulation desk clerk typically involves applying through the library's employment process, which may include an interview and background check. Candidates often need good customer service skills, basic computer knowledge, and sometimes prior experience or a high school diploma. Competition varies depending on the location and the number of available positions.

What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Desk jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Library Circulation Desk jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Desk jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Desk jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Library Circulation Desk jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Desk job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,193 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Library Circulation Assistant

Prairie State College

Chicago Heights, IL • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Posting Number
H0503P
Classification
Part-Time
Position Number
Position Title
Library Circulation Assistant
Status of Position
Part-Time
FLSA
Non Exempt
Position Summary
Circulates library materials and provides general library services to library users.
Reporting Relationship
Direct reporting relationship to the Director of Library Services.
Essential Responsibilities
  1. Circulates materials and equipment from the library.
  2. Retrieves materials from behind the library circulation desk (magazines, A/V materials, reserves) for library users.
  3. Creates and edits PSC patron records in the automated circulation system.
  4. Assists students with using the online catalog and locating materials within the library.
  5. Collects monies from library users including, but not limited to, service fees, overdue fines and replacement costs for library materials.
  6. Assists with the operation of the public copy machines and ensures the copy machines and library printers are operational.
  7. Shelves materials, reads assigned shelves daily and completes shelf reading forms.
  8. Maintains library organization and cleanliness; gathers materials for counting in house use.
  9. Schedules and provides access to student study rooms.
  10. Tracks daily patron count throughout the day.
  11. Enforces library policies and procedures; contacts security to assist with maintaining an academic atmosphere as necessary.
  12. Assists in the computer lab with basic tech questions (e.g. printing, e-mail, WebAdvisor, D2L).
  13. Performs other duties and special projects as assigned consistent with the role of this position.

Other Duties and Responsibilities
Minimum Qualifications
  1. High School Diploma and 2 years customer service work experience.
  2. Ability to use the automated circulation system, online catalog and other computer based applications.
  3. Demonstrated oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  1. Associate's Degree.
  2. Work experience in a school or community college setting.
  3. Work experience in an academic or public library.
  4. Experience with the Microsoft Office Suite of computer programs.

Anticipated Work Hours and Days
Salary
$15/hr.
Benefits
N/A
Posting Date
08/05/2026
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
All applications must be submitted electronically.

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