Library Assistant I - On Call

This description covers the most significant essential and auxiliary duties performed by the position, but does not include other occasional work, which may be similar, related to, or a logical assignment for the position.

Essential Duties:
1. Staff the circulation area, which includes checking Library materials out and in; collecting fines/fees; answering telephone; issuing library cards/forms/applications and reviewing returned materials for damage. May prepare the library for opening and/or closing.

2. Perform paraprofessional library duties such as loans within the regional cooperative library service, searching databases, ordering materials, receiving and logging in order, notifying patron, and returning orders to lending library, etc.

3. Prepare materials for circulation, including stamping books, taping spines, typing spine labels, applying covers, preparing video and audio cassettes, and updating lists. Arrange and re-shelve collection materials following standardized shelving instructions.

4. Provide limited ready reference and readers' advisory services for the public. Respond to inquiries from the public regarding use of the facility and equipment. Explain and promote library services and events. Refer inquiries, as needed, to other agencies.

5. Provide assistance to other staff as workload and staffing levels dictate. May assist with library events, outreach and programs.

6. Perform various clerical tasks in support of library operations, e.g. data entry and review of same by others, mail sorting, photocopying, typing, completing reports, publicity, ordering supplies, etc.

7. Maintain proficiency by attending training and meetings, reading materials, and meeting with others in areas of responsibility. 

8. May perform other duties as assigned.

9. Maintain cooperative working relationships with City staff, other organizations and the general public.

10. Follow all safety rules and procedures for work areas. Maintain work areas in a clean and orderly manner.

Knowledge of: Customer service experience working directly with the public. Operation of computers, data entry and other standard office equipment, alpha/numeric sorting methods, and cash handling.
 
Ability to: Follow written and verbal instructions. Gathering, sorting, organizing, and filing of materials in alphabetic, numeric or alphanumeric order. Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees, contractor, other agencies, public officials, the general public and volunteers.
 
Experience and Education: Equivalent to high school education supplemented by additional coursework in general academic  areas  and  six  months  library  experience,  or any  satisfactory  combination of experience and training which demonstrates the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the above duties.
 
Special Requirements/Licenses: None.
 
Desirable Qualifications: Knowledge of research methods and materials, online catalog search methods, general library operations. Previous work experience in a public library organization with automated library systems. Familiarity with a broad range of literature and information sources. Experience learning changing technologies. Proficiency in a language other than English.
 
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally be required to crouch, crawl, kneel, stoop, bend, and reach.  Extended periods of standing may be required.  May need to use a step stool to reach high shelves.  Duties involve moving materials weighing up to 5 pounds on a regular basis such as magazines, files, books, office equipment, etc. May occasionally lift, move or carry objects between 20 and 50 pounds. Manual dexterity and coordination are required more than 50% of the work period while operating equipment such as computer keyboard, calculator, and standard office equipment.
 
Working Conditions: This position works in a library or community setting with some hectic or demanding situations; occasional dealing with distraught individuals and challenging customer interactions; and frequent interruptions, which requires maximum flexibility. This position routinely uses standard office equipment, such as computers and telephones. Schedules may include evenings and/or weekends. Prompt arrival for shift work and dependable maintenance of scheduled hours is necessary. Occasional operation of a motor vehicle on public roads, or equivalent mobility, may be required to attend trainings in the region.