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

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Library Circulation Desk information

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How much do library circulation desk jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,193 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Entrance/Exit Control Attendant

University of Chicago Library

Chicago, IL • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department

Library C & A - Access Serv - Entry Control


About the Department

As a center of intense intellectual inquiry, the University of Chicago Library aspires to be the most dynamic research and learning environment in the world, supporting the University's commitment to research and teaching and to using its intellectual resources to help solve the world's problems. Even as we continue to focus on building and preserving our renowned collections, the Library is assuming new roles that are vital to research, innovation, and learning at the University. In the process, we are leveraging the deep expertise of Library staff, developing services that support new avenues of research, and expanding access to and preservation of scholarly resources in ways that advance the goals of the University community and the needs of the next generation of scholars.


Job Information

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Head of Regenstein Circulation and Building Resources, the Regenstein Library Entrance Desk Attendant performs clerical duties and is responsible for welcoming patrons and visitors, assisting with access, answering inquiries, directing to other library departments or staff as necessary, explaining Library policy to patrons, and building and data security. The Entrance Desk Attendant must be able to handle high and low levels of activity while providing exceptional customer service to all Library patrons and visitors.

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 6:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Responsibilities:

  • Welcomes and assists patrons and visitors to the Library through the consistent and equitable application of Library policies to ensure excellent customer service to all; provides information about Library and campus resources and services to patrons seeking assistance, including connecting patrons with other library staff as needed.

  • Monitors entry systems to ensure valid access for UChicago ID holders and oversees the visitor registration system to facilitate entry for non-affiliated guests. Verifies government-issued photo identification as required by access policies and to issue visitor library credentials. Directs individuals to the ID & Privileges Office as necessary. Denies access to prohibited individuals or as access policies require, alerting and referring to a supervisor as directed.

  • Coordinates with library staff for scheduled visitors, monitors visitor calendar, remains knowledgeable and informed about Library events, and communicates information between shifts to colleagues and supervisors.

  • Protects and stewards private user data. Uses discretion and sound judgement when sharing private data with first responders and other authorized personnel.

  • Reports emergency situations to UCPD and supervisors; in the absence of other staff acts as primary contact with UCPD and fire department. Promptly reports building issues to Library and University Facilities Services.

  • Acts as the sole library representative in the building during Extended Study periods. Enforces policies for maintaining a scholarly environment, deescalates situations using empathy, acts as a resource for Allied Universal staff.

  • Monitors security cameras. Ensures building security, providing after-hours access to eligible users. Works with Allied security staff and UCPD to secure the building at closing. Ensures building is unlocked promptly at opening.

  • Troubleshoots systems and reports issues with electronic doors, databases, entry gates, or visitor pass system to ID & Privileges office, Circulation supervisors, or the Department of Safety & Security as appropriate.

Competencies:

  • Display emotional intelligence.

  • Excellent attention to detail.

  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a diverse team, multitask, and work with frequent interruptions.

  • Identify priorities and resolve or refer problems.

  • Communicate clearly and effectively while displaying courtesy, empathy, and diplomacy.

  • Ability to identify, respond to, and refer problems while exercising discretion and sound judgment.

  • Ability to serve patrons and articulate library policies with clarity, consistency, patience, and empathy.

Additional Responsibilities

Education, Experience, or Certifications:

Education:

  • High school diploma from an accredited institution or a GED certificate required.

Experience:

  • Previous customer service experience required.

  • One year of general office or clerical experience preferred.

  • Previous experience in a college or university preferred.

Technical Knowledge or Skills:

  • Knowledge and experience using Microsoft Office.

  • Ability to navigate web-based systems.

  • Ability to learn a range of position-related software applications.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to bend, crouch, or stoop.

  • Ability to hear, including making fine discriminations in sound.

  • Ability to see, including color, depth perception, or clarity.

  • Ability to sit and use a computer for 4 hours or more.

  • Ability to make repetitive wrist, hand, or finger movements.

  • Ability to work independently during early morning or late night hours in a large academic library when other staff are not present.

  • Ability to work late evening and weekend hours.

  • The hours for this position are:

Pay Range:

  • $17.26 - $17.79

Required Documents:

  • Resume

  • Professional References (3)


The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.
When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.


Benefit Eligibility

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.


Pay Rate Type

Hourly


Pay Range

$17.26 - $17.79

The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.


Scheduled Weekly Hours

40


Union

024- Local 743, I.B.T. Clerical


Job is Exempt

No


Drug Test Required

No


Health Screen Required

No


Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No


Posting Date

2026-08-14


Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at:http://securityreport.uchicago.edu.Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

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