Library Assistant
Position Title: Library Assistant
Department: Library
Reports To: Principal / School Administrator
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: Show Low Unified School District
Calendar: 148 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.
Minimum Qualifications:
- 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.
Core Job Functions:
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.
Physical Demands:
- 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.
Working Conditions:
- 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.