What is the role of the circulation department?

The purpose of the circulation department is to assist users in finding materials in the library and checking materials in and out of the library. Some libraries may also have the circulation staff perform searches for misplaced books or missing books.

The circulation department is also responsible for handling money related to printing services, late fees and lost materials. This area also sends out the late notices and fee notices. Most members of the circulation staff at a library are considered staff support, leaving the professional librarians to help with research materials and questions that do not pertain to the general library or locations within the library.