Library Assistant I - 25 HR

Provides reference services to all Library patrons, performs routine circulation duties and provides instruction for use of the Library’s online catalog and research database. This position is not assigned by building or particular location and requires the flexibility to work at various library branches as assigned.  Requires evening and weekend work.    

• Prepares hold requests for patrons and notifies patrons to pick up books placed on reserve.
• Provides professional and courteous customer relations at all times.
• Searches and makes requests for interlibrary loan materials.
• Interprets Library policies and procedures to the public.
• Assesses and collects fines for overdue/lost library materials; balances cash register.
• Accepts applications for and issues library cards.
• Conducts Internet searches and evaluates web sites.
• Creates bibliographies and conducts bibliographic instruction for groups as assigned.
• Answers Library patrons’ reference questions; assists patrons and staff in using various resources and equipment of the Library, including use of Library catalogues, use of Library computer hardware, searching the Internet and use of online data bases.
• Organizes, processes and shelves all Library materials, including books, periodicals, audio and video recordings, newspapers, etc.; reads and shifts books on shelves; packs delivery items.
• Processes paperback books, magazines and newspapers; maintains computer records of these items.
• Repairs and mends damaged books; affixes covers and labels.
• Assists in arranging books and other displays.
• Prepares and submits required reports and forms.        Collects Library Statistical Information.

• Assists with the Children’s Library program and other Library programs as assigned.
• Opens and closes Library and prepares Library equipment for daily operations.  
• May set up meeting room for meetings and programs as requested.
• May perform duties of supervisor in his/her absence.
• Performs a variety of routine clerical duties as required, which may include but are not limited to typing, copying and filing documents, ordering supplies, answering the telephone, etc.
• Interacts and communicates with various groups and individuals such as the immediate supervisor, co-workers, County employees, Library patrons, faculty members, personnel of other libraries, volunteers/student and community service workers, vendors, and the general public.
• Supervises the work of assigned volunteers.
• Maintains a neat and clean workplace.
• Operates and maintains a variety of equipment, which includes a computer, printer, cash register, scanner, fax machine, copier, calculator, multi-lined telephone, etc.
• Runs errands as needed.
• Attends and remains at work regularly and adheres to policies and procedures regarding absenteeism and tardiness.        Provides adequate notice to higher management with respect to vacation time and leave requests.
• Performs related duties as required.

(These essential functions are not a complete statement of all duties required of the job. Employees will be required to perform such other related job duties as may be assigned or required.)

Requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent supplemented by one (1) to two (2) years of general library, customer service and/or office experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. May possess a valid State Driver’s License.

• Knowledge of the methods, policies and procedures of the Nassau County Public Library system and County as they pertain to the performance of duties of the Library Assistant I.  
• Knowledge of the methods and practices of Public Library operations, including circulation and reference services.        
• Knowledge of the Dewey Decimal System. 
• Knowledge of reference topics and is able to assist patrons in locating and researching information as needed.
• Ability to consistently provide quality customer service to patrons and staff as required. 
• Knowledge of modern office and technology.
• Knowledge of proper English usage, punctuation, spelling and grammar.  
• Ability to perform required mathematical calculations.
• Ability to type and enter computer data accurately at a rate sufficient for the successful performance of assigned duties.
• Ability to operate and maintain a variety of office equipment as necessary in the performance of daily activities.
• Skilled in applying a responsible attention to detail as necessary in preparing reports and records.
• Ability to multi-task. 
• Ability to read and interpret various materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job.
• Ability to take the initiative to complete the duties of the position under limited supervision. 
• Ability to use independent judgment in performing routine and non-routine tasks.   
• Ability to offer training and assistance to co-workers and employees in other departments as required.
• Ability to learn and utilize new skills and information to improve job performance and efficiency.  
• Ability to perform duties in a courteous manner and with the utmost integrity in the best interest of the public. 
• Ability to work under stressful conditions as required.  
• Ability to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL SKILLS:

• Tasks require extended periods of time at a keyboard or work station.
• Stooping
• Sitting
• Kneeling         
• Bending
• Crouching
• Reaching
• Standing
• Walking
• Lifting and carrying up to 20 lbs.
• Pushing and pulling

(Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability)

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Works inside
• Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the job. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applications will continue to be received until the listed closing date or the position is filled, whichever is earliest. Submission of an application does not guarantee the applicant an interview. Applicants will be subject to a criminal background check.

Nassau County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free Workplace.  Nassau County values the service veterans and their family members have given to our country and that the County supports the hiring of returning service members, military spouses, and their family members as such this position is eligible for Veterans’ Preference in accordance with applicable laws.

The information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, environmental conditions, or qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. This position may be required to work in a safety sensitive capacity at any time based on emergency declaration or other operational need. Nassau County reserves the right to edit or re-write this job description at any time.

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Nassau County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free Workplace.  Nassau County values the service veterans and their family members have given to our country and that the County supports the hiring of returning service members, military spouses, and their family members as such this position is eligible for Veterans’ Preference in accordance with applicable laws.