Position Title: Library Assistant
Department: Library
Reports To: Principal / School Administrator
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: Show Low Unified School District
Calendar: 157 Days, 8 hours per day, Monday through Thursday
Position Summary:
The Library Assistant is responsible for managing and overseeing the daily operations of the school library. This includes overseeing the check-in/check-out process, organizing and maintaining the library’s collection of books and media resources, assisting students and staff with research and locating materials, and promoting a reading culture within the school. The Library Assistant plays a vital role in ensuring the library is a welcoming, resource-rich environment for students and staff. This position does not require a librarian certification but demands excellent organizational, customer service, and instructional support skills.
A high school diploma or GED is required; an associate’s degree or equivalent coursework in library sciences or a related field is preferred.
Experience in a library or clerical setting is preferred.
Familiarity with library software systems and technology.
Basic computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong communication skills and the ability to effectively interact with students, staff, and parents.
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding student and school information.
Arizona IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card.
To successfully perform this role, the individual must be able to execute the following essential duties:
Library Management:
Oversee the day-to-day operation of the library, including opening and closing procedures.
Manage the check-out and check-in process for library materials, ensuring proper records are maintained.
Organize and shelf library materials, keeping the library collection neat, accessible, and well-maintained.
Catalog and process new library materials, including books, periodicals, and digital resources.
Student and Staff Support:
Assist students and staff in locating and selecting reading, research, or school project materials.
Provide guidance on using library resources, including library software, reference materials, and online databases.
Promote library services and encourage reading and literacy initiatives to students and staff.
Assist students with research tasks and help them utilize appropriate materials for their assignments.
Library Instruction and Programming:
Support and help implement library instruction programs for students, including classes on using library resources, research techniques, and literacy skills.
Organize and participate in reading programs, book fairs, and other literacy-related activities.
Assist teachers in developing classroom assignments incorporating library resources, promoting collaboration between classroom learning and library services.
Resource Maintenance:
Regularly assess the condition of library materials, repairing or replacing damaged items as needed.
Maintain an inventory of library materials and ensure items are properly cataloged and classified.
Monitor the use of library materials and ensure the library collection meets the needs of the students and curriculum.
Technology and Media Resources:
Assist with the use of educational technology in the library, including online databases, e-books, and multimedia resources.
Help students and staff with computer access and use, including library software programs and school website resources.
Troubleshoot basic technology issues related to library equipment, such as computers, printers, and media devices.
Recordkeeping and Reports:
Maintain accurate records of library transactions, including check-outs, returns, and overdue materials.
Assist with the preparation of library usage reports and statistics as needed.
Track overdue materials and follow up with students to ensure timely returns.
Library Environment and Supervision:
Create and maintain a positive and inviting atmosphere in the library to encourage student participation and independent learning.
Supervise students in the library, ensuring appropriate behavior and a productive learning environment.
Assist in maintaining the library’s physical space, including furniture arrangement and cleanliness.
Collaboration and Professional Development:
Collaborate with teachers and staff to integrate library resources into classroom lessons and projects.
Stay informed on trends in library services, educational technology, and student engagement.
Attend professional development opportunities and workshops related to library services, technology, or education.
Other Duties as Assigned:
Assist with administrative duties, special projects, or events as assigned by the Principal or school administration.
Provide support for school-wide initiatives and activities that may require library involvement.
Regularly required to talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to manipulate objects, books, and library materials.
Frequently required to stand, walk, bend, or sit for extended periods of time.
Ability to lift and move up to 25 lbs, including books, boxes, and library materials.
Occasionally required to reach, climb, or bend to shelf books and organize library spaces.
Vision requirements include close vision and the ability to adjust focus for reading, scanning, and organizing library materials.
Work is performed in a school library environment, where students, staff, and other school personnel regularly interact.
The position may require occasional evening or weekend work for special school events or library programs.
The Library Assistant must work independently but also be able to collaborate with teachers, staff, and students.