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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 Sep 8, 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, and 46% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,193 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Part-Time Librarian

Chicago, IL

City Colleges of Chicago
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about City Colleges of Chicagoexternal

$23.37/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

City Colleges Of Chicago rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

LIBRARIAN - PART-TIME 
HARRY S TRUMAN COLLEGE

The Library of Harry S Truman College, one of the City Colleges of Chicago, seeks an innovative, collaborative, customer service-oriented, technologically astute part-time librarian to provide professional services to students, faculty, and staff. This position is responsible for delivering a full range of services, including reference assistance, library and information literacy instruction, and collection development.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Staffs the reference desk, and assists all library users in identifying and locating electronic and print materials, and solving research problems.
  • Provides information literacy instruction to students, faculty and staff in formats suitable to class, group, operational, or individual needs.
  • Must have familiarity with Internet sources and the ability to search online databases.
  • Collaborates with staff and faculty in order to select new resources for the library collection, working within the approved collection development guidelines.
  • Supports the acquisition, cataloging, and circulation of library materials.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Master's degree in Library Science is required.
  • Must be self-directed, innovative and able to assess current operations in an effort to develop practical action programs to improve the functioning of the department.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills required with the ability to effectively interact with personnel at all levels (both inside and outside of the organization).
  • Must be able to work well within a culturally diverse environment with the ability to handle all situations with tact and diplomacy.
  • Must be flexible, innovative and possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.


Starting Salary: $23.37/hr. The rate paid is in accordance with City Colleges approved salary scale.
Benefits information is found at https://www.ccc.edu/departments/Benefits/

WORK SCHEDULE:

May require a mix of evening and daytime shifts. Schedule is determined every semester.
 


City Colleges is an affirmative action equal opportunity employer.
Thank you for your interest in employment with CCC.

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