Library Assistant III- Outreach

The Harford County Public Library offers a competitive compensation and benefits package. Starting wage, depending on candidate qualifications, is between $18.73 and $24.70. This position is eligible for the following benefits: deferred compensation 457(b) retirement plan, pension plan, medical, dental and vision plans, employee assistance program, voluntary benefits, paid time off and more.

Position Summary:

The Library Assistant III performs a variety of tasks related to the circulation of library materials, including, but not limited to greeting and directing customers, checking materials in and out, registering customers for library cards, providing orientation services, explaining library policies and procedures, and maintaining accurate customer accounts; author and title services to library customers and drives and operates the outreach vehicle. May plan and present programming and readers advisory services. Meets minimum public service hours as defined by Library Administration.

Essential Duties:

1. Drives outreach vehicle, including setting up, to designated community outreach sites throughout Harford County;
2. Greets and directs customers to appropriate areas;
3. Checks materials in and out;
4. Registers customers for library cards;
5. Provides orientation to library users and explains library policies and procedures;
6. Maintains accurate customer accounts;
7. Assists patrons by locating and retrieving materials and demonstrating and providing instruction in the use of computers;
8. Provides reference desk coverage and answers author, title questions and readers advisory as directed;
9. Performs some clerical responsibilities in support of branch;
10. Works on the branch circulation desk;
11. Sets up and monitors seasonal and other book displays;
12. Assists in promoting and providing special programs and services to encourage greater use of the library.
13. May plan and present programming and readers advisory services.

Standard Functions:

1. Serves on committees and participates in workshops, seminars, and training as requested;
2. Notifies Supervisor with suggested ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of personnel and procedures and system-wide goals and objectives;
3. Learns new skills and technologies to retain proficiency in areas of expertise;
4. Is dependable and punctual;
5. Maintains a positive, friendly, and cooperative attitude and provides consistent customer service;
6. Upholds all library policies and procedures as defined in Harford County Public Librarys Policies and Procedures Manual;
7. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

1. High school diploma or G.E.D., Associates degree preferred;
2. Two years or more of directly related experience;
3. Or equivalent combination of technical training, education, and/or experience.
4. Ability to work day, evening, and weekend hours.
5. Ability to provide documentation of a valid Drivers License with no more than 3 points.
6. Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable criminal background report.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1. Working knowledge of library practices, policies, and procedures;
2. Ability to create a welcoming and friendly environment encouraging repeat business;
3. Ability to learn to operate relevant computer systems, including hardware and software, and office machines;
4. Ability to learn to maintain and organize library materials;
5. Ability to receive and handle monies;
6. Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records;
7. Ability to be adaptable, flexible and patient with customers and staff;
8. Strong customer service skills with the ability to resolve issues;
9. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written;
10. Basic math skills.

Reporting Relationship:

This position reports to the Library Associate III Outreach or Branch Manager. Does not supervise staff.

Work Environment:

1. Work requires occasional physical effort in the handling of light materials, up to 30 pounds, in a non-strenuous work environment. For example, set up and takedown of tables, chairs or other equipment for meetings or events, pushing/pulling of library carts.
2. Environment includes moderate noises (i.e. an office with conversations, photocopiers, and/or computer printers).
3. Work also involves standing or walking up to 60% of the time.
4. Requires sitting and use of computer and keyboard for extended periods of time.
5. Observes safe workplace practices with uncluttered workspace, including office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls, proper lifting techniques, and following fire regulations.
6. Ability to travel to branch/outside locations is required.

Work Week:

Work schedule includes day, evening and weekend hours.

In addition to the specific duties and responsibilities of this job, it is the responsibility of every employee to comply with the Harford County Public Librarys Values statement, customer service guidelines, and all other policies detailed in the Policies and Procedures Manual.

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job. The library administration reserves the right to change, modify, delete, and supplement job duties based on the organizations needs.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

This and all library positions are eligible for system-wide transfer.

Harford County Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer