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Library Circulation Desk Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operate the library circulation desk, including opening and closing procedures * Check in and check out books, periodicals, and other library materials * Shelve materials and maintain accurate ...

Performs a variety of clerical tasks in assisting library patrons and maintaining library materials ... Standing is frequent when at the circulation desk. Gripping is involved when writing with pen or ...

$19.75 - $20.75/hr

Staff the circulation desk and utilize the library circulation software to check materials in and out to students. Send out overdue notices to students monthly. Contact students when holds are ...

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Library Circulation Desk information

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$7

$15

$24

How much do library circulation desk jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation desk in the United States is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $17.79 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 are library circulation desk jobs?

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.

Can you get a job at a library with no experience?

Library circulation desk positions often do not require prior experience, as training is typically provided on the job. Employers look for good communication skills, reliability, and a willingness to learn, making it possible for entry-level candidates to qualify. Some libraries may prefer or require a high school diploma or equivalent, but many roles are accessible to those without previous work experience.
More about Library Circulation Desk jobs
What cities are hiring for Library Circulation Desk jobs? Cities with the most Library Circulation Desk job openings:
What states have the most Library Circulation Desk jobs? States with the most job openings for Library Circulation Desk jobs include:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Desk job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,193 per year, or $16 per hour.
Circulation Desk Operations Specialist, University Library

Circulation Desk Operations Specialist, University Library

California State University

San Marcos, CA • On-site

$3K - $5K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


California State University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

214th of 534 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Circulation Desk Operations Specialist, University Library
Job no: 557418
Work type: Staff
Location: San Marcos
Categories: Unit 9 - CSUEU - Technical Support Services, Probationary, Full Time, Library, On-site (work in-person at business location)
Job Overview
Under general supervision of the Associate Dean, and the lead direction of the Head of User Services, the User Services Analyst, and the Service Point Operations Lead, the Circulation Desk Operations Specialist independently provides quality customer service to library users at the Circulation Desk; oversees evening and weekend desk operations; supports late night study operations; processes hold requests; and leads the work of student assistants working at the Circulation Desk.
Position Summary
Circulation Desk Operations Specialist (Library Services Specialist II)
This is a full-time, non-exempt position, which will lead toward permanent status following the successful completion of a probationary period.
For a complete list of responsibilities and required qualifications, please review the position description linked at the top of the page.
Pay, Benefits, and Work Schedule
Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $3,981 per month (Step 1) - $4,573 per month (Step 8)
CSU Classification Salary Range: $3,981 - $5,800 per month
Salary is commensurate with the background and experience of the individual selected.
This position is eligible for a broad range of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurances, retirement (CalPERS), tuition waiver, vacation and sick leave. In addition, 15 paid holidays are offered each year; 14 scheduled on specific days and a Personal Holiday that may be taken any time during the year.
A comprehensive benefits summary for this position is available online by visiting our Benefits Portal. The CSU Total Compensation Calculator demonstrates the significance of the benefits package.
This position is required to work in person on campus.
California State University San Marcos
A mid-size university located in San Diego's vibrant North County, we are dedicated to service, innovation, leadership and student success. We have an attentive faculty and state-of-the-art facilities which offer our students hundreds of opportunities to learn, lead, play and serve.
California State University San Marcos is a new kind of university, pushing the boundaries of innovation to prepare tomorrow's leaders, build stronger communities and solve pressing issues.
Cutting-edge research meets hands-on application at our campus and in the real world.
Application Process
This position is open until filled. For assurance of full consideration, please submit application, cover letter and resume by 11:59pm on May 12, 2026.
There are supplemental questions required to apply to this position.
Applicants who require an accommodation during the application or testing process due to a disability recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)/CA Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) should notify the Office of Human Resources at (760) 750-4418 or e-mail: hr@csusm.edu.
Supplemental Information
Following a conditional offer of employment, satisfactory completion of a background check (including criminal records check) is required prior to beginning employment. Any offer of employment rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current CSU employee who was conditionally offered the position.
California State University San Marcos is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to age, physical or mental disability, gender or sex, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion or religious creed, sexual orientation, and veteran or military status.
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act or Clery Act Notification can be found at https://www.csusm.edu/clery/annualreports.html.
Pursuant to the CSU Out-of-State Employment Policy, as of January 1, 2022, the California State University is prohibited from hiring employees to perform CSU-related work outside the state of California.
Applicants will be required to disclose whether they have received a final administrative decision or final judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last 7 years only after a determination is made that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position, and before an offer of employment is extended. Applicants who reach the final stages of the application process must also sign a release form that authorizes the release of information by the applicant's current and/or former employers to the CSU concerning any substantiated allegations of misconduct.
California State University San Marcos is not a sponsoring agent for staff or management positions (i.e. H1-B visas).
Advertised: Apr 29 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:
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About California State University

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California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US