Library Assistant I - Part-Time

Paraprofessional library position, which involves performing various administrative, clerical, public service or technical services tasks in assigned Section of the Library. Duties involve a variety of tasks which are performed in accordance with established Library policies, procedures, and practices, but which require the application of independent judgment, creative thinking, and clerical knowledge. During occasions of local emergencies, this position shall be required to perform emergency tasks which may result in extended work hours as well as extended periods of time away from family members.

• In Circulation, performs a variety of responsibilities, including creating and maintaining library patron accounts, checking in and out library materials, carefully checking returned materials for damages and missing pieces, checking damaged materials out to repair as needed, etc.
• In Youth Services, performs a variety of responsibilities, including assisting library patrons with reference and reader’s advisory inquiries, developing and presenting programs for youth and families, creating and preparing craft activities, sorting and shelving library materials, creating and preparing program flyers and posters, etc.   
• Greets the public in a professional and courteous manner, both in person and on the telephone, and answers questions and provides information as appropriate, or directs patrons to appropriate library personnel as needed.   
• Provides general information regarding the Library and its services to patrons at the Circulation Desk and refers patrons to appropriate personnel for assistance and/or to other areas of the Library, as requested, in a professional and courteous manner.
• Facilitates inter-library loan of materials by way of record-keeping, making request/holds online preparation of materials for courier or re-shelving, notification of patrons, checking out, checking in, and tracking requested materials.
• Compiles, maintains, and reports statistics regarding patron inquiries, author and title searches, and materials used in the Library daily.  
• Monitors reserve lists/requests for current status and update into the computer as appropriate.
• Assists patrons with checking in and checking out of books and other materials.
• When appropriate, responds to reference and reader advisory inquiries in person and by telephone, and refers patrons to other library personnel when appropriate.
• Demonstrates knowledge of the library collection, including basic reference and electronic resources.
• Conducts tours and assists with library programs.
• Compiles bibliographies on selected topics at the direction of supervisor.
• Checks in periodicals and newspapers daily, properly stamping and filing them according to designation. 
• Prints overdue notices daily and prepares them for mailing.
• Assists with unlocking and locking of program rooms when users arrive and depart as needed.
• Assists patrons with copiers and printers.
• Assists patrons with public computers.
• Circulates and shelves St. Petersburg College reserve materials for courses.
• Stocks informational materials at desk and kiosk.
• Shelves returned books and other materials; reads shelves and checks for missing books.
• Prepares a variety of related reports, correspondence, and documents.
• Oversees emptying of book drop numerous times daily, including checking in of materials.
• Assists in preparation for opening and closing of Library and computers depending on assigned work schedule; sorts books, tapes, and other materials for check-in according to library of origin; prepares materials for return to other libraries by Pinellas Public Library Cooperative and St. Petersburg College couriers; shelves video tapes, CDs, audios, books; opens/closes safe; distributes or secures cash, receipts, etc., including balancing of cash register at close of business and in accordance with established procedures; opens library doors in morning. 
• May train new employees in the Circulation Section as assigned by the Circulation Supervisor.
• May perform physical processing of books to make "shelf ready" (stamping, attaching labels, pockets, book covers, monthly change of “new book” status, etc.).
• May perform cleaning, mending or minor repairs to books and other materials.
• Tracks service desk and workroom supplies; informs supervisor when supplies are needed.
• Attends staff meetings as scheduled.
• Attends workshops and training opportunities appropriate to position.
• Demonstrates knowledge of computer skills, including proficiency in keyboarding, Microsoft Suite and appropriate knowledge level of Integrated Library System (ILS). 
• Demonstrates thorough knowledge of all departmental/divisional policies and procedures and the City's Personnel Policies and Procedures.
• Strives to maximize effective communications between assigned personnel, other employees throughout the City, and the general public.

Required Skills/Abilities: 
Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma; or an equivalent combination of education and library experience.  Proficient in the use of personal computer systems.   Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.  Ability to communicate, both orally and in writing, in a clear and courteous manner to the public and other staff members.  Ability to work varying daily work schedules.  Ability to utilize a computer with proficiency in keyboarding skills and a working knowledge of standard computer applications such as Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Power Point, etc.
 
Licenses, Certifications or Registrations:
Possession of a valid Florida Driver's License. 
 
Physical Requirements: 
Ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing.  Ability to utilize a computer with proficiency in keyboarding skills.     May require lifting and carrying books and other Library materials weighing up to approximately twenty-five (25) pounds.
 
Working Conditions:
Performs professional and administrative work in an office environment and within the Library facility.