Library Circulation Assistant, Part-Time

Town of Needham; Needham Heights (MA); On-site; USD 23,000 - 29,000; Part time

Job summary

The Town of Needham's Needham Free Public Library seeks a part-time Library Circulation Assistant to support patron services, checkouts, registrations, and general desk duties under the Circulation Supervisor.

The successful candidate will have strong customer service, good communication, and basic tech skills to operate the library system and assist with routine tasks. This role requires the ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 45 lbs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• At least one year of general experience, preferably in a library.
• Excellent customer service and ability to interact with the public.
• Proficiency with office software and library web applications.
• Strong verbal and written communication with staff and patrons.
• Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 45 lbs, and push book carts.

Responsibilities

• Handle circulation desk duties: checkouts, renewals, holds, registrations, and patron questions.
• Maintain records in the library network system and assist with opening/closing tasks.
• Assist in collection maintenance and displays as needed.
• Support library initiatives and collaborate with other departments.
• Create welcoming environment and enforce library policies.

Skills

Customer service

Verbal communication

Written communication

Technology skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Integrated library system (ILS)

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

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

Duties and Responsibilities

• 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.

Requirements

• 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.

Supplemental Information

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 disabled 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].