Library Assistant

The class works under general supervision and requires working knowledge of specialized library procedures and processes in order to perform assigned functions.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities (% of duties):70% - Depending on assignments, performs moderately complex library activities on a regular basis. Tasks include, but are not limited to: patron assistance, circulation of library resources locally, statewide, and globally, basic research and reference assistance, bibliographic services, materials processing and collections maintenance, routine cataloging, records creation and maintenance, billing, reports, and/or student employee supervision.

Charges, discharges, recalls, and/or renews library materials. Processes incoming and outgoing inter-library loan, electronic document delivery, and OhioLINK requests. Informs patrons of overdue materials and/or library fines/fees. Resolves billing/bursar issues as assigned including billing and reconciliation reports as well as correspondence. Resolves problems in patron or item records utilizing the library and University systems as appropriate. Provides directional assistance. Assists patrons with equipment use and undertakes minor and/or routine repairs to equipment. Provides assistance via various mediums. Communicates trends and patron interests to supervisor and library administration. 

Provides basic research and reference services; performs bibliographic searches through various sources; assists patrons in locating materials, accessing databases, and retrieving full text data. Assists patrons with OhioLINK, CRC and Maag Library collections, and other services. Provides information requested in an array of formats, including but not limited to print, electronic, and digitized to library patrons. Forwards specific inquiries to the appropriate subject specialist librarian and/or library administration. 

Performs paraprofessional library tasks. Assists in the selection of new acquisitions, processing, classification, and updating of the library catalog. Adjusts location codes and item records as necessary or requested. Performs routine cataloging as directed. Works with OCLC and other national bibliographic/vendor databases to ensure that bibliographic records are entered and updated in the library management system. Creates/maintains bibliographic and item records. Verifies order, vendor, and funding information. 

Maintains all library materials and equipment. Assures that library collections are clean, well maintained, properly spaced, and in appropriate order. Identifies materials that require binding, re-labeling, re-covering, or other repairs. Processes incoming and outgoing bindery materials. Performs shelf reading and inventory. Pulls items for de-selection, adjusts item records, and processes materials for discard as requested. Ensures that items are re-shelved expeditiously.

 30% - Performs routine library tasks such as data entry, shelving, filing, compiling statistics, correspondence, pick-ups and deliveries, ordering, participating on committees, and performing outreach.     

Hires, trains, schedules, and supervises students as assigned; verifies hours worked; and processes time records. Maintains collections statistics and obtains reports as required. Receives gift collections and maintains records of donors and their gifts to the collection including correspondence. Attends meetings and participates in committees/events as necessary or requested. Contributes to the library’s social media presence and represents the organization at campus and community events.

Opens and/or closes the library as scheduled. Informs YSU Police of immediate or potential security issues and/or Facilities on issues relating to building or grounds as needed. Assists with the distribution of incoming and outgoing mail/packages. Physically transports materials between Maag Library, the CRC, and other locations as needed.

Other Functions and Responsibilities: Performs other related duties as assigned.

Equipment Operated: Computer and all other standard office equipment. Library equipment such as but not limited to: barcode reader, microforms, laminators, UPS label printer, binding book-covering machine, label sealing iron, book cover trimmer, scanners, paper cutter.

Work Schedule: Schedule will vary based on departmental need. Typically scheduled for 8-hour days, 40 hours per week from the following library operational hours: 

Monday to Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. 

Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

Sunday: 1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. 

Works evening, weekend, and/or extended hours as needed. Operational hours may be subject to change.

Supervision Exercised: May exercise supervision over student employees.

Reports to: Co-Director & Head of Library Services and Operations  

Required Certifications, Training, and/or Licensures: None

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

Knowledge of: library practices and procedures.

Skill in: use of specialized library software and equipment; computer; all other standard office software and equipment; attention to detail; excellent customer service and communication.

Ability to: gather, collate, and classify information about data, people, or things; apply principles to solve practical problems; answer routine inquiries concerning library use and operations; communicate effectively.

(*) Developed after employment.

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or GED and one year of experience working in a library; or at least twelve credit hours of library science graduate coursework. Experience using Microsoft Office and internet navigation tools.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience using library management systems. Attention to detail; excellent customer service and communication; ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing with a variety of constituents; ability to exercise initiative, tact, and independent judgment.