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Library Circulation Manager Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

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Library Circulation Manager information

See Madison, WI salary details

$28.7K

$73.6K

$125K

How much do library circulation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for library circulation manager in Madison, WI is $73,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $86,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a circulation manager?

A circulation manager oversees the borrowing and returning of library materials, manages the circulation desk, and ensures accurate record-keeping of items checked out. They often use library management software and coordinate with staff to provide efficient service to patrons.

What is the difference between Library Circulation Manager vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary Circulation ManagerLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles prefer associate's or bachelor's degreeHigh school diploma; some roles may require certification or associate's degree
Work EnvironmentPublic and academic libraries, managing circulation desks and staffLibraries, assisting with cataloging, shelving, and patron support
Primary ResponsibilitiesOverseeing circulation operations, managing staff, handling overdue itemsSupporting cataloging, shelving, and patron assistance

The Library Circulation Manager typically has more supervisory duties and oversees circulation services, while the Library Technician focuses on technical and support tasks. Both roles are essential in library operations and often work closely together to serve patrons effectively.

Who are the highest paid librarians?

The highest paid librarians are typically those in senior leadership roles such as library directors or chief librarians, especially in large academic or research institutions. Salaries can also be higher for librarians with specialized skills, advanced degrees, or certifications, and those working in regions with higher living costs or in private sector libraries.

What is the highest paying library job?

The highest paying library job is typically a Library Director or Chief Librarian, with salaries often exceeding $80,000 to $150,000 annually depending on the size and location of the institution. These roles require advanced degrees, leadership skills, and extensive experience in library management and administration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Circulation Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Circulation Manager, you need strong organizational skills, knowledge of library science principles, and experience in library circulation operations, often supported by a bachelor's degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), cataloging software, and circulation management tools is typically required. Exceptional customer service, leadership, and communication skills help manage staff, resolve patron issues, and foster a welcoming environment. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient circulation processes, maintaining accurate records, and delivering excellent patron experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by Library Circulation Managers, and how can they be addressed?

Library Circulation Managers often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of material checkouts and returns, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring excellent customer service during busy periods. Balancing staffing schedules and handling patron concerns or conflicts can also be demanding. These challenges can be addressed by implementing efficient workflow systems, providing regular staff training, and leveraging library management software to streamline processes. Open communication with the team and fostering a collaborative environment can also help create smooth operations and a positive experience for library users.

What does a library circulation manager do?

A library circulation manager oversees the borrowing and returning of library materials, manages the circulation desk, and ensures accurate record-keeping of items checked out. They also supervise staff, handle patron inquiries, and maintain the library's catalog system, often using integrated library systems (ILS).
What are popular job titles related to Library Circulation Manager jobs in Madison, WI? For Library Circulation Manager jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Manager jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Manager jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Library Circulation Manager jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Library Circulation Manager job openings:
Library Circulation Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Manager job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,592 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Library Circulation Supervisor

City of Monona

Madison, WI

$63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description and Terms of Employment Under general supervision of the Library Director, the Circulation Supervisor manages the circulation department and serves patrons directly. The essential duties listed below are representative of those carried out by the circulation supervisor. Other tasks may be assigned if they are of a similar nature.

All library employees must be willing and able to work a flexible schedule including nights and weekends. The library's mission statement is "The Monona Public Library enriches lives by building community connections, fostering imagination, and opening up a world of ideas." We welcome all who will help us achieve this for anyone who interacts with the library. Duties and Responsibilities The following essential duties are representative of those carried out by the circulation supervisor

Other tasks may be assigned if they are of a similar nature. Supervises on a daily basis a staff of 12-15 part-time employees, ensuring a rewarding job experience and that staff work efficiently and to the best of their abilities. Participates in employee hiring, annual reviews, and, in consultation with the library director, resolve disciplinary issues that may arise.

Prepares weekly staff work schedule, schedules vacations, deals with unforeseen absences, and related scheduling issues. Delegates circulation responsibilities to staff members as appropriate. Participates in staff coaching and development, providing advice to staff and assisting in problem solving; ensures staff have opportunity to take advantage of continuing education opportunities.

Manages the circulation department, supervising transactions involving 250,000+ items and more than 120,000 patrons annually. Develops procedures for the orderly operation of the department; manages the workflow of the department for maximum efficiency and customer service. Manages the flow of material out of the building and back to the shelf; assures proper transfer of hold items, identification of damaged material, and other issues related to process and quality control.

Coordinates delinquent account procedures. Coordinates running and handling of issues from item and account management reports provided by South Central Library System (SCLS). Responsible for maintaining a high degree of customer satisfaction from the checkout desk.

Identifies aspects of good customer service; communicates best practices; monitors staff actions. Resolves elevated customer concerns regarding overdue or lost materials, fines, claims returned, circulation policies and related issues. Miscellaneous Staffs the service desk as required.

Prepares administrative reports as requested, including contributions to the monthly board report. Maintains a high level of professional development by participating in continuing education activities. Qualifications 3-5 years of library experience on library desk and circulation Supervisory and managerial experience desirable Knowledge and Abilities Ability to perform effectively as a team leader, coordinating the activities of several staff members.

Working knowledge of an integrated library system (ILS), preferably in a public library setting Ability to work independently and solve work-related problems. Ability to train new staff and assist existing staff in adapting to new procedures or learning to use new equipment and technology. Ability to explain and promote library services and to work with diverse individuals and community groups.

Ability to work cooperatively as part of a management team and to work closely with other departments of the library. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with both the public and fellow staff. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and establish positive, mutually supportive working relationships with other staff.

Knowledge of new concepts and technological advances and ability to relate them to public services. Ability to act as person-in-charge. Ability to use good judgment in evaluating situations and making decisions.

Minimum Physical Abilities: Ability to frequently move among shelves and to place books on shelves; shelves range from a few inches off the floor to up to 90 inches tall Ability to retrieve books from bins, sort them, and place them on shelves Ability to accurately exchange information with library patrons and staff in person and via telephone Far vision at 20 feet or further, and near vision at 20 inches or less Ability to move a cart of materials on wheels weighing 60 - 80 pounds Ability to operate a computer

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