Description
Provide front-line customer service and circulation support in a library, using integrated library systems and standard office procedures. Duties include checking materials in and out, issuing library cards, managing holds and returns, collecting fines and fees, and maintaining accurate patron and item records. Assist patrons in person, by phone, and online; operate circulation and office equipment; and help keep collections and service areas organized.
- • Collect and reconcile fines and fees; process cash and card transactions.
- • Assist patrons in person, by phone, and online; explain policies and resolve account issues.
- • Answer and route calls; take messages and respond to basic inquiries.
- • Maintain and file circulation records, patron registrations, and transaction logs.
- • Prepare and send overdue notices, bills, and hold pickup notifications.
- • Operate the integrated library system, self-check kiosks, barcode scanners, and printers.
- • Enter and verify patron and item data; run and proofread circulation reports.
- • Update patron accounts; manage item statuses, holds queues, and mailing lists.
- • Open and route deliveries; process book drop and courier items; prepare outgoing shipments.
- • Review patron and item records to answer questions and resolve discrepancies.
- • Route messages and materials between service points and departments.
- • Track inventory and supplies for the circulation desk; request replenishment.
- • Schedule meeting rooms or equipment checkouts; update desk calendars.
- • Process new and returned materials, renewals, holds, and transit slips.
- • Provide direction to pages, volunteers, or student workers during circulation tasks.
- • Prepare and proofread patron correspondence, signage, and simple reports.
- • Sort, shelve, and shift materials; organize holds shelves and displays.
- • Train new staff or volunteers on circulation procedures and ILS functions.
- • Assist with program setup and meeting room preparation; record attendance as needed.
- • Troubleshoot issues with public printers, self-check machines, scanners, and basic ILS functions; escalate when necessary.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
