Library Assistant

The Library Assistant, under direct supervision from the Circulation Supervisor and general supervision from the Library Director, assists library patrons, performs clerical tasks, and completes other library work as required.  As frontline staff, Library assistants are responsible for delivering prompt customer service, performing most day-to-day library operations and, with proper training, assisting in projects with other departments.

• Provide excellent customer service to patrons of all ages, including new users and those not comfortable on computers.
• Assist patrons with reference questions, readers’ advisory, program registration/information, database instruction, and general library and community information.
• Assist patrons with general use of computers, photocopiers, and monitors computer spaces.
• Help patrons with personal devices and downloadable content.
• Assist patrons with account services including updating and registering new cardholders.
• Perform general circulation tasks such as, but not limited to, placing and processing holds, checking materials in and out, and collecting fines and fees.
• Utilize software to assist patrons with online room reservations.
• Straighten materials and re-shelve as needed.
• Assist with removing and disposing of underused library materials and keeping shelves tidy.
• Assist with library opening and closing procedures.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and visually appealing environment.
• Arrive to scheduled shifts reliably and on time.

• Adult Programming support.
• Technical services support.
• Youth services support.

1. High School Diploma or equivalent required.
2. One or more years of general customer service.
3. One or more years of library, or similar experience, desired.
4. Keyboarding and general office experience.
5. Must be able to work the schedule as outlined above.

1. Good interpersonal skills and the ability to maintain and foster cooperative and courteous working relationships with the public, peers, and supervisors.
2. Working knowledge of Standard English grammar and spelling, ability to communicate ideas in written and oral forms. Bilingual/Multi-lingual desired but not required.
3. Ability to manage time efficiently, prioritize tasks and meet deadlines when set.
4. Ability to effectively present information to patrons and respond to questions from patrons.
5. Ability to maintain confidentiality of library patron information.
6. Ability to work independently, organize and prioritize work, respond to varied and changing work demands and make decisions as required.
7. Ability to comprehend and follow detailed instructions: follow instructions from a supervisor, written or verbal.
8. Basic math and money handling, change making.
9. Keyboarding and basic computing, Internet familiarity and searching skills, filing ability.
10. Ability to learn pertinent computer programs (or software) and to effectively use them to perform assigned duties.
11. Willingness to maintain skills in above-mentioned areas through active participation in appropriate continuing education activities.
12. Ability to work both a flexible or set schedule, including evening and weekend hours.

Minimum Physical Abilities Required to Perform Job:

1. Talking and hearing; use of the telephone.
2. Far vision at 20 feet or further; near vision at 20 feet or less.
3. Fine motor skills: keyboarding, writing legibly, sorting, shelving, and processing.
4. Handling: processing, picking up and shelving books.
5. Lifting and carrying: 50 pounds or less
6. Pushing and pulling: objects weighing 300-400 pounds on wheels.
7. Sitting, standing, walking, climbing, stooping, kneeling, and crouching.