Library Assistant I

OPEN/PROMOTIONAL OPPORTUNITY

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

TENTATIVE EXAMINATION DATE: Week of May 25, 2026

Library Assistant I is the entry level class in the Library Assistant paraprofessional series.  Positions in this class typically require little directly related work experience. The Library Assistant I class is distinguished from the II level by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the II level. Initially, under close supervision, incumbents will develop proficiency in library operations, including customer service, digital tools, and collection support, while gaining familiarity with department and city policies and procedures. This position provides an excellent opportunity to build knowledge and experience in a dynamic and inclusive library environment.

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Patron Services:

• Assists patrons with physical and digital library collections, including e-books, streaming, platforms, online databases, and mobile applications.
• Provides personalized reference and reader’s advisory assistance to the public, utilizing modern tools such as integrated library systems (ILS) and advanced search techniques.
• Offers technology assistance, including troubleshooting computers, printers, Wi-Fi, and other digital devices.
• Guides patrons in using emerging technologies, such as 3D printers, virtual reality equipment, and makerspace tools.

• Conducts bibliographic verification for materials and ensures accurate cataloging in both physical and digital formats.
• Evaluates patron requests for materials considering cost-effective strategies for acquisition, including interlibrary loans and e-resources.
• Assists professional staff to curate materials, recommending additions, weeding outdated items, and optimizing resource distribution across branches.  
• Orders and receives new library materials; contacts vendors regarding materials ordered or faulty billings; prepares forms for interlibrary loan requests.

• Plans and conducts diverse and inclusive library programs for all age groups, including virtual events, STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) activities, and cultural workshops.  
• Engages in community outreach, promoting library resources and services offsite at schools, community centers, and events.
• Collaborates with external organizations to expand library programs and strengthen partnerships.
• Prepares promotional materials, including visually engaging book displays, digital content, and social media campaigns.
• Assists library professional staff on special projects.
• Represents the City with dignity, integrity, and the spirit of cooperation in all relations with staff and the public.
• Fosters an inclusive, welcoming, and collaborative library environment, embracing equity and diversity.
• Builds and maintains positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of excellent customer service.

• Performs related duties as assigned to support library operations and respond to the evolving needs of the community.

Education/Experience: 
Equivalent to an Associate degree or completion of sixty semester units or equivalent quarter units from an accredited college or university. Library experience is desirable.

Other Requirements:

• Must be willing to work evenings and weekends.

• Standard terminology and practices related to paraprofessional library support work;
• Basic supervisory principles and practices to foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment;
• Basic analytical and project planning principles and techniques;
• A wide range of books, authors, genres, and digital reference sources, including specialized databases and e-resources;
• Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment including relevant software programs;
• Oral and written communication skills; business English including vocabulary, spelling, and correct grammatical usage and punctuation;
• Safe work practices; and
• Principles and practices of excellent customer service.

• Using sound independent judgment within established guidelines;
• Performing paraprofessional reference and cataloging work;
• Assigning, directing, training and reviewing the work of others;
• Understanding and carrying out oral and written instructions and prioritizing workload to meet deadlines;
• Reading, writing, and comprehending the English language at a level necessary for effective job performance; exercising correct English usage, vocabulary, spelling, grammar and punctuation;
• Communicating effectively, tactfully, and positively in both oral and written form;
• Operating and using modern office equipment and technology, including computers and applicable software;
• Utilizing appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties;
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; and
• Contributing effectively to the accomplishments of City goals, objectives, and activities.

• Mobility – Frequent sitting for long periods of time while operating a keyboard; occasional walking, bending of neck, squatting, climbing stairs, kneeling, and twisting; reaching above head and bending to floor level;
• Lifting – Frequent lifting of 30 pounds or less; occasional carrying of 30 pounds or less;
• Vision - Constant use of overall visual capabilities; frequent need for use of color perception, hand/eye coordination, reading and/or close up work; 
• Dexterity - Constant typing; frequent repetitive motion and writing; occasional grasping, pushing, pulling, and reaching;
• Hearing/Talking - Constant hearing and talking of normal speech in person and on the telephone; 
• Special Requirements - Occasionally requires weekend and/or evening work; 
• Emotional/Psychological - Constant concentration, decision making and public contact; occasional ability to exercise sound judgment, especially under stressful situations; may work independently and/or in group settings;
• Environmental Conditions - Occasional exposure to noise, hazardous materials i.e. dirt, dust, gas, smoke, fumes, and poor ventilation; occasional exposure to outdoor conditions, indoor cold/heat, and working around equipment and machinery; and
• Working Conditions - Primarily performed in an office environment which is typically quiet.  

• After online submittal, immediate notification will appear on your screen indicating your application has been received. Please print this notice as proof of filing. 
• Notification and correspondence will be sent via email only. No paper notices will be mailed to applicants. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure a correct email address is provided and that correspondence is being received.
• NeoGov.com: You will receive correspondence via the email address you placed on your application. Some email accounts have been known to place these e-mails in the spam/junk folder. Please check your e-mail folders or accept e-mails ending with neogov.com.