Library Assistant

GENERAL PURPOSE:  Under close supervision, provides a variety of customer services to City Library patrons and assists the public with utilizing available resources; promotes the Library and its services to meet the needs of the community.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.
 

• Assists patrons, processes book requests, researches databases to determine availability of items, checks library materials in and out, and creates new patron records.
• Assists patrons in the use of electronic readers, library computers and specialized software; enforces usage rules and provides account status information.
• Provides information and interpretation concerning library services, policies and procedures.
• Checks in and organizes library books and other materials; maintains the neat and orderly appearance of the Library as required.
• Calculates and bills patrons for appropriate fees; collects fines.
• Provides reference service, answers phone, and helps patrons locate research materials.
• Processes library materials by preparing for on-line computer cataloging, addition to electronic databases and other resources; prepares materials for entry in to circulation.
• Operates library bookmobile as required; operates courier service between library branches.
• Processes interlibrary loan requests and reserve holds on items requested by patrons; enters information into automated circulation system; advises patrons on status of requests.
• Archives magazines, periodicals and newspapers, and prepares them according to policies; identifies and removes items from circulation for disposal as needed.
• Maintains records, archives and files; gathers and compiles data for ongoing library records and produces statistical reports; inventories library collections.
• Assists with programs as needed; updates study room assignments and maintains library program registration.
• Decorates bulletin boards and book displays for holidays and special events; designs and prints posters, flyers, promotional materials, and library signage.
• Re-shelves books; performs light cleaning duties including dusting and vacuuming.
• Sorts donations to add to library collection.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required. 

Education and Experience:
High School diploma or GED equivalent, and one (1) year of customer service experience. 
 
Necessary Knowledge and Skills:

• Knowledge of City policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of standard library practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of the principles of record keeping and records management.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of cataloging books and materials under Dewey decimal system.
• Skill in providing effective customer service with tact and courtesy.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with employees and the general public. 
• Skill in operating a personal computer and various hand-held reading devices.
• Skill in following and effectively communicating verbal and written instructions.
• Skill in maintaining and balancing a cash drawer.

Physical Demands / Work Environment:  This position works in a library environment. Scheduling is varied, continually dependent on Branch needs, and may require evening and weekend availability, including availability on short notice. Position may be asked to cover shifts at nearby library branch. Position may be located on a high school campus and involve considerable interaction with students.
  
The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as needed.