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Library Circulation Supervisor Jobs in Springfield, MA

Works under the general direction of the Library Director. Supervision Exercised: Supervises circulation staff; assists in evaluating staff and interviewing prospective applicants of the circulation ...

Library Circulation Supervisor information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$29.4K

$66.6K

$124.9K

How much do library circulation supervisor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for library circulation supervisor in Springfield, MA is $66,573.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,300.00 and $70,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Library Circulation Supervisor, and how can they be effectively managed?

Library Circulation Supervisors often encounter challenges such as handling high-traffic periods, managing overdue materials, and ensuring smooth coordination among staff. Effective management involves implementing clear policies, providing ongoing staff training, and using library management systems to track circulation activities efficiently. Strong communication skills and adaptability are key to addressing patron concerns and resolving workflow bottlenecks, contributing to a positive library experience for both staff and visitors.

What does a Library Circulation Supervisor do?

A Library Circulation Supervisor oversees the daily operations of the circulation desk in a library. Their responsibilities include managing circulation staff, assisting patrons with borrowing and returning materials, resolving account issues, and ensuring that library policies are followed. They may also handle overdue items, fines, and coordinate with other library departments to maintain an organized and welcoming environment. The supervisor plays a key role in providing excellent customer service and supporting the library’s mission.

What is the difference between Library Circulation Supervisor vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary Circulation SupervisorLibrary Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles prefer library science courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentPublic or academic library, supervising circulation staffAssist with daily library operations, customer service
Job ResponsibilitiesOversee checkouts, returns, manage overdue items, supervise staffCheck out materials, assist patrons, shelve books

The Library Circulation Supervisor typically has more responsibilities, including supervising staff and managing circulation processes, while the Library Assistant focuses on assisting patrons and handling daily tasks. Both roles require customer service skills, but the supervisor position involves leadership and oversight duties.

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

To thrive as a Library Circulation Supervisor, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience with library operations, typically supported by an associate's or bachelor's degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS) like Sierra or Koha, as well as knowledge of cataloging and circulation software, is commonly required. Excellent customer service, leadership abilities, and effective communication help you manage staff and address patron needs efficiently. These skills are crucial for maintaining smooth library operations, ensuring accurate resource management, and fostering a positive environment for both staff and patrons.
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Supervisor jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Supervisor jobs in Springfield, MA are:
Head of Circulation and Technology

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Town of Vernon

Department: Library

Wage/Hours:  $28.45 - $32.98 40 hours/week (commensurate with experience)

General Statement of Duties:  A technical position responsible for overseeing all circulation activity, including scheduling and assigning job duties to other library staff in the areas of circulation; oversees maintenance of library computers and training of staff on new technology.  Assist library patrons in the use of library services, facilities, and equipment. 

Supervision Received: Works under the general direction of the Library Director.

Supervision Exercised: Supervises circulation staff; assists in evaluating staff and interviewing prospective applicants of the circulation department. 

Essential Job Functions:

Circulation/Public Services Duties:

- Plans, coordinates and supervises the activities of the circulation services; supervises and trains department personnel, in accordance with the library's policies and procedures.

- Establishes priorities, processes, procedures and workflow within department, makes suggestions for upgrades or changes.

- Provides direct service to patrons in person, via phone, email, social media.

-Participates in collection development and maintenance and collection of fines and fees collected on materials.

- Ensures overdue and reserve notices are prepared as needed, and patrons are contacted by phone or email.

- Plans and coordinates the implementation of displays, exhibits, etc. 

- Assists in short-term and long-range planning of library services. 

- Maintains circulation and patron statistics and prepares regular statistical reports.

- Oversees interlibrary loan and delivery to homebound patrons. 

Technology Duties

- Maintain and update library computers, software, fax machine, scanner and printers, and other items as needed.

 - Identify and correct printing, faxing, and computer problems. 

- Suggest improvements/enhancements to library's computer and electronic device. 

- Interface with Town IT Department as required to perform the above. 

- Train staff on software and hardware changes.

 - Provides technology assistance to patrons and delivers technology related programs. 

Other Job Function Duties: 

May work on special projects and/or perform other duties as required.

Regular and Punctual attendance necessary. Must be able to work evenings and weekends.

May be called in to work at, or assist with, the Town's Emergency Operation Center. 

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of the job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk, hear and perform repetitive tasks with hands, wrists and arms.  Employee will need to push and pull loaded book trucks weighing up to 200 pounds; bend down to floor and reach up to seven feet to retrieve and shelve books, often with the aid of a foot stool; lift and carry books weighing 20-30 pounds; get down on hands and knees to troubleshoot equipment and retrieve materials. Hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:  The work characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Must be able to concentrate on fine detail with constant interruption, attend to tasks for 45-60 minutes at a time, remember multiple assignments given over long periods of time and understand the theories behind several related concepts. 

May be exposed to dust, fluctuations of inside temperature & electro-magnetic radiation as a computer screen.  The noise level in the work environment is generally quiet, but periods of noise can occur. 

Minimum Qualifications: Ability to work effectively, independently, and cooperatively with colleagues, patrons, and the community at large. Broad knowledge of current public library principles, practices, and procedures. Strong knowledge of library organization, and circulation procedures Excellent customer service skills with the ability to provide service in a friendly, patient, courteous, and professional manner. Strong oral and written communication skills. Critical thinking skills with the ability to draw conclusions or approaches to problems to implement solutions; ability to supervise, train and evaluate staff; ability to delegate; ability to foster relationships and deal effectively with employees and the general public.  Ability to understand, interpret, and implement library policies, procedures and rules.  Ability to assess technology needs and assist the Director to roll-out of new technology. Ability to prepare and maintain accurate statistical reports in a clear and concise format.  Must be computer proficient with the ability to learn software programs specific to the job.  Self-motivated, creative, and flexible. Excellent professional judgement, courtesy, tact and flexibility. Exercises initiative, and independent judgment. Ability to work evenings and weekends.  A police background check will be required. 

Experience and Training: Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with at least (3) years' experience in library circulation and customer service OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Education and/or experience must demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed. Some supervisory experience required.