CWE Student Library Assistant

Program Overview
The CWE Student Library Assistant placement provides high school students with supervised, real world exposure to public library operations and community services. Students assist library staff while learning how libraries support literacy, lifelong learning, technology access, and community engagement.

This placement introduces students to careers in library science, public service, education, administration, and community programming. 

Learning Objectives

Students participating in this placement will:

• Understand how libraries serve as educational and community resource centers.
• Develop customer service and public interaction skills.
• Gain experience organizing materials and maintaining records.
• Learn basic library systems, technology support, and office procedures.
• Assist with community programming and outreach efforts.
• Build professionalism, communication, and workplace readiness skills.

Essential Learning Activities & Hands On Experience

Under direct supervision, students may:

Customer Service & Public Assistance

• Welcome patrons and help create a positive, welcoming environment.
• Assist visitors in locating books, materials, and library resources. 
• Provide basic directional assistance and connect patrons with staff for reference support.
• Answer phones and assist with routine patron inquiries. 

Library Operations & Circulation

• Assist with checking materials in and out using the library system.
• Help organize, shelve, and maintain library collections according to cataloging systems. 
• Process returned materials and prepare items for circulation.
• Help maintain patron records and follow library procedures. 

Technology & Digital Support

• Assist patrons with basic computer use and public access technology.
• Help with printing, copying, and scanning services.
• Learn troubleshooting basics for common technology questions.

Programs, Outreach & Promotions

• Assist staff with library events, youth programs, and community activities.
• Help prepare and distribute promotional materials electronically and in print. 
• Support setup and cleanup for library programs.

Administrative & Clerical Support

• Assist with filing, organizing materials, and routine clerical tasks.
• Help maintain displays and informational materials.
• Learn organizational and record keeping practices.

Workplace Skills Development

• Practice professional communication with patrons of all ages.
• Develop organization, time management, and multitasking skills.
• Demonstrate responsibility, punctuality, and teamwork.
• Build confidence in a public service environment.

Supervision & Training

Students work under the supervision of library staff. All activities are training focused and aligned with CWE program guidelines and library policies.

Schedule

• Work hours are coordinated with the student’s school schedule and Library operations.

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

starting at $16.50 per hour.

McKenzie County offers an excellent benefit package including:

Health Insurance – Health & Child Care – Flexible Spending- Program Group Life Insurance-

Retirement – Optional Deferred Comp Plan- Vacation – Sick Leave – Paid Holidays

An applicant who is a resident of North Dakota and eligible to claim veterans’ preference must abide by the Department of Veterans Affairs guidelines available at  www.nd.gov/veterans/benefits/veterans-preference-state/documentation-required-applicant  and submit any documentation with an otherwise complete application.
 
                                                          Equal Opportunity Employer

Program Requirements

• Enrollment in the Bakken Area Skills Center CWE Program.
• Interest in reading, learning, and community service.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Basic computer familiarity and willingness to learn.
• Ability to organize materials and follow procedures.
• Ability to stand, walk, and lift up to 25 pounds. 

Safety & Professional Expectations

Students must:

• Follow library policies and patron privacy standards.
• Maintain a respectful and welcoming environment.
• Use equipment and technology responsibly.
• Report concerns or safety issues to staff.