Library Circulation Assistant, Part-Time

Town of Needham; Needham (MA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 29,000; Part time

Job summary

The Town of Needham is seeking a part-time Library Circulation Assistant for the Needham Free Public Library. You will support patron services, assist with checkout processes, registrations, renewals, holds, and policy explanations, while maintaining circulation records and aiding in displays and collections.

Prior library exposure and strong communication are valued. Applicants should be able to stand for long periods, lift up to 45 lbs., and work a schedule including Thursdays 5:30–9:00 pm and

Qualifications

• Completion of four years of high school or equivalent.
• One year of general experience, preferably in a library setting.
• Excellent customer service skills and capacity to interact effectively with the public.
• Skill in technology, including office software and web applications in support of operations.
• Clear verbal and written communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Capability of standing for long periods and lifting up to 45 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Performs circulation desk procedures and direct patron services (checkouts, renewals, returns, holds, card registration).
• Maintains records utilizing the library system and may assist with opening/closing Circulation operations.
• Assists in collection maintenance including deaccessioning, displays, and moving materials.
• Maintains orderliness of materials and supports library initiatives across departments.
• Creates a welcoming environment by enforcing library policies.

Skills

Excellent customer service

Verbal and written communication

Technology skills

Lifting 45 lbs

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Office software

Web applications

Job description

The Town of Needham is seeking passionate individuals to fill the part-time position of Library Circulation Assistant at the Needham Free Public Library. Reporting to the Library Circulation Supervisor, the Library Circulation Assistant will support in a patron-facing capacity, assisting in providing information and processing library checkouts and other services. The ideal candidate will have a strong administrative or support background, excellent communication skills, and a passion for serving the Needham community.

It is an exciting time to join the Needham Free Public Library team! Our new Strategic Plan and Annual Action Plans position the library to continue to meet the community’s needs for years to come. In addition, our recent Library Space Utilization Study reimagines the library’s interior space in four phases to enhance the work we do for our patrons and the community with our newly opened 4,000-square-foot Teen Room being the first phase. Along with diverse collections, plentiful programming, and great services, the Needham Free Public Library is on track to be the go-to place for new and current library workers.

Schedule

Weekly: Thursdays 5:30 - 9:00 pm, Fridays 1:00 - 5:30 pm

In addition:

Week 1: Saturday 9:00am - 5:00 pm

Week 2: Saturday 1:00 - 5:00 pm

Week 4: Sunday 1:00 - 6:00 pm (1:00 - 5:00 pm during the summer)

CON #27015

• Performs circulation desk procedures and direct patron services, such as checking in and borrowing of materials, processing library card registration and checkouts, renewals, returns, and holds, assisting with general questions, and explaining and enforcing library policies.
• Maintains records utilizing integrated library network system; may assist with operational tasks for opening/closing Circulation Department.
• Assists in collection maintenance including deaccessioning activities, orderliness, moving materials, and helping with displays.
• Maintains orderliness of materials collection; supports Library initiatives and provides assistance to other Library departments as needed.
• Creates a welcoming environment for all patrons by ensuring library policies and procedures are followed.

The following requirements may be substituted by any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job:

• Completion of four (4) years of high school or equivalent.
• One year of general experience, preferably in a library setting.
• Excellent customer service skills and capacity to interact effectively and tactfully with the general public.
• Skill in technology, including the application of office software and web applications in support of Departmental operations.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication with internal and external stakeholders including patrons of all ages, Library staff, and other Town employees.
• Capability of standing for long stretches as well as bending, lifting up to 45 lbs., and pushing book carts loaded with books.

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 AM on Friday, October 9, 2026.

The Town of Needham is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and encouraging workplace. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, age, gender, national origin, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, veteran status, or any other protected class. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.

For general employment inquiries, please contact us at [e-mail].

The Town of Needham will endeavor to provide reasonable accommodation to a qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you believe you require such assistance to complete this form or to participate in an interview, please contact us at [e-mail].