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

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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 6, 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,193 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Customer Services Assistant- Nichols Library

Naperville Public Library

Naperville, IL • On-site

$18.65/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description


POSITION SUMMARY

The Customer Services Assistant assists customers at the public desk in all areas of Library services, providing consistent, accurate, and timely handling of Library materials for circulation. Provides quality customer service and collaborates with staff to resolve circulation related issues. Contributes to the general order and care of facilities and Library materials.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Upholds the highest standards of customer service with polite, helpful, and efficient interactions with vendors, customers, and staff.
  • Performs customer service activities for thelibrary,includingissuance oflibrary cards,processesand routesmaterials,collectsfees,processesLibrary's&LINKinexpiredHolds,andshelf reads.
  • Responds to customer requests promptly and courteouslyreferring difficult or unusual requests to the appropriate Librarystaffwithdiscretion.
  • Assistscustomerswith use ofLibrary equipment, print resources, technology,and online resources.
  • Troubleshoots basic problems with self-check machines, phones, and otherdepartmental equipment.
  • Ensures the quality of the collection material by reviewing materials, processing lostmaterialand routing damaged items to theappropriate department.
  • Facilitates communication concerning building issues with the FacilitiesDepartment and Library management.
  • Answers and responds tophoneinquiriesand/orroutescallstoappropriate department.
  • Processesand completescurbside service.
  • Processes Inter-Library Loan(ILL)items and communicates with ILL customers.
  • Inspects and recordssafetyof credit card machines, according to PCI guidelines.
  • Handlesand recordslost and found materials according to guidelines.
  • Makes announcements over the public address system as needed.
  • Acceptsand reviewsused material donations, accordingto guidelines.Maintains Used Book Sale section.
  • Collaborates on programs/projects withother staff,occasionally at other locations.
  • Assistswithpaging list fulfillment, including pulling, processing,and shelvingHolds.
  • Monitors andmaintainsorder in the public areas to ensure a welcoming environment forcustomers.
  • Assistsand completesdepartmentalstatistics and reports.
  • Attends andassistswithOutreach Library events.
  • May periodically serve as PersonInCharge (PIC), providing support for employees, customers, and facility issues.
  • Attends professional development opportunities.


KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

  • Demonstrate strong written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills working effectively with diverse cultures, interpersonal styles, abilities, and backgrounds.
  • Demonstrates exceptional customer service, providing qualityassistanceto vendors,customersand staff.
  • Keeps current in relevant technology, uses computer software programs such as Microsoft Office andOutlookand common office equipment to complete tasks/assignments.
  • Usesproblem solving skills to assist in determining priorities and finding timely solutions to departmental or system-wide issues.
  • Uses computer software and common office equipment to complete tasks, keeps current with relevant technology.
  • Service oriented, provides quality customerassistance;establishesand maintains effective relationships with customers and staff.
  • Maintains confidentiality,professionalism,anddiscretionin situations.
  • Possesses strong technical skills. Familiar with a range of hardware and software technologies.
  • Strong organizational and time management abilities. Complete assignments and projectsin a timely manner.
  • Demonstratesappropriatemoneymanagementresponsibilities.
  • Responsive to change anddemonstratesadaptability.
  • Takesresponsibility for consistent completion and follow-up on all tasks.
  • Maintains a positive approachwhiletaskingin adverse situations.
  • Demonstrates a broader understanding of the job and looks for ways to improve Library services and support coworkers.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS

  • Highschooldiploma or equivalent.
  • Minimumtwoyearsof customer serviceexperience.
  • Bilingualproficiencya plus.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Communicate with staff and customers in person, via emailand over the phone.
  • May require either being in a stationary position or moving about for prolonged periods.
  • Moves equipment or library materials weighing up to 35 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 development opportunities


WORK SCHEDULE


Monday 1 - 5 p.m.


Tuesday 1 - 5 p.m.


Wednesday 5 - 9 p.m.


Thursday OFF


Friday 1 - 5 p.m.


1 Sat/mo. 1 - 5 p.m.

1 weekend/mo.

1 Friday 5 - 9 p.m.

1 Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

&

1 Sunday 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)

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