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Library Circulation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description Responsible for performing paraprofessional responsibilities in the Circulation section of the Library. Performs a variety of clerical tasks in assisting library patrons and maintaining ...

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Library Circulation information

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$7

$15

$24

How much do library circulation jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation 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 Clerk, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Circulation Clerk, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with library operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with integrated library systems (ILS) such as Sierra or Koha, as well as proficiency in cataloging and using office software, is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities help you interact effectively with patrons and handle inquiries. These skills are essential for ensuring efficient library operations, accurate materials management, and positive user experiences.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Library Circulation staff member?

Library Circulation staff are responsible for checking materials in and out, managing patron accounts, shelving returned items, and assisting visitors with basic inquiries. They often handle holds and interlibrary loans, process overdue fines, and troubleshoot issues with library cards or technology at the circulation desk. Collaborating closely with other library departments, circulation staff play a key role in maintaining an organized collection and ensuring a positive experience for library users.

What are library circulation staff responsible for?

Library circulation staff are responsible for managing the borrowing and returning of library materials, such as books, DVDs, and other resources. They assist patrons with checking out items, renewing loans, and handling overdue materials. Additionally, they may answer basic questions, issue library cards, and maintain accurate records of borrowed items. Circulation staff play a key role in ensuring that library operations run smoothly and that patrons have access to the resources they need.

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

Library circulation jobs often do not require prior experience, as they typically involve tasks like checking out books, assisting patrons, and maintaining the collection. Employers may prefer good customer service skills and a willingness to learn, and some positions offer on-the-job training. Having a high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient for entry-level roles.

What is the difference between Library Circulation vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary CirculationLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentAssociate degree in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic and academic libraries, handling checkouts and returnsLibraries, assisting with cataloging, processing materials, and technical tasks
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries of all types, often entry-levelLibraries, often with more technical responsibilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Library Circulation staff primarily handle checkouts, returns, and managing library materials, often requiring only a high school diploma. Library Technicians perform more technical tasks like cataloging and processing materials, usually needing an associate degree. While both roles work in libraries and support library operations, Library Technicians typically have more specialized skills and responsibilities.

More about Library Circulation jobs
What cities are hiring for Library Circulation jobs? Cities with the most Library Circulation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Library Circulation jobs? The most popular types of Library Circulation jobs are:
What states have the most Library Circulation jobs? States with the most job openings for Library Circulation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Library Circulation job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 75% Physical, 17% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,193 per year, or $16 per hour.
Student Employee- Newton Gresham Library- Circulation Department

Student Employee- Newton Gresham Library- Circulation Department

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, TX • On-site

$8/hr

Part-time

Posted 22 days ago


Sam Houston State University rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

365th of 529 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Information
Requisition
202600162ST
Title
Student Employee- Newton Gresham Library- Circulation Department
Employee Class
Student Employee
College Work Study Position
No
Department
Newton Gresham Library
Division
Division of Academic Affairs
Hours per week
Part Time 20 - 25 hours
Hiring Rate
$8.00 per hour
Preferred Student Classification
No preference
Nature & Purpose of Position
Newton Gresham Library faculty and staff envision a library that supports and enhances the development of critically thinking, educated, and informed lifelong learners. The Library is critical to the University's learning and research mission and endeavors to create physical and virtual environments that promote discovery of new knowledge and the transfer of existing knowledge. The Library fulfills this mission by providing organized access to a diverse array of quality print, electronic, and other resources and by continuously improving the effectiveness of its instructional and research services.
Nature & Purpose of Position:
The Circulation department supports the library's mission by ensuring various collections within the building remain easily accessible, tidy, and in call number order. Student assistants will be taught to shelve and locate materials using the Dewey Decimal, Library of Congress, and SuDoc Systems; a familiarity with these systems is not required, as library staff will teach you all the required skills. Circulation student assistants also provide exemplary service to patrons by helping to locate library materials, providing instruction on the use of the online catalog, checking in and out materials, helping patrons become familiar with the library, and directing patrons to a variety of library resources. Other duties include basic administrative functions of an office such as filing, sorting, answering phones, and running errands, helping to staff library events, and assisting patrons with locating campus resources. Circulation student assistants create their own schedules within a few parameters: shifts must be between 2-8 hours in length; shifts must include two 7:30am openings, two closings, or one 7:30 am and one closing; and a max of 5 student assistants may sign up for a single timeslot.
Other Requirements for the Position
Must be able to work Summer 2026 and continue their employment into the Fall semester. Student workers do not need to be enrolled for Summer 2026 but will need to be enrolled for Fall 2026; incoming freshman are welcome to apply! Circulation student assistants cannot hold another on campus job. Must be able to carry/lift heavy boxes of books and furniture (50 lbs.), bend low, push loaded carts, and use step stools to shelve library materials.
Open Date
05/08/2026
Position Number
9N9950-00
Contact Information
Contact Name & Title
Crystal Dancer
Contact Phone
(936) 294-3893
Contact Email
crd005@shsu.edu
Contact Building & Room #
Contact Fax
Contact Instructions Summary
EEO Statement
EEO Statement
Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or protected veteran status. The University takes seriously the initiative to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce and to comply with Title VII as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Sam Houston State University is an "at will" employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security-sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code §51.215.
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