Library Assistant, Outreach and Mobile Services

Work Location: Central Library, 1301 Barcarrota Boulevard, Bradenton, Florida 34205

This classification performs various public library functions under professional librarian guidance. This is paraprofessional work involving responsibility for the assigned area of responsibility and may be required to assign and oversee the work of others.

Working Conditions
Indoor library environment. Extended periods of sitting and standing regularly required. High noise environment while performing certain responsibilities. Lifting equipment and books up to 25 lbs. alone; up to 50 lbs. with assistance. Able to push book truck and shelve books. May be assigned to any Manatee County Public Library System location. Assigned schedule will include Saturday and evening hours.

Essential Functions
These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

Outreach and Mobile Services Library Assistant
As part of the Manatee County Library Outreach and Mobile Services Team, this position supports and delivers services outside library walls, in the community, with a focus on underserved and at-risk populations. Under supervision, the position presents programs for all ages—from youth through adults—in a variety of non-library locations and helps ensure access to library materials, resources, and information through mobile services and bookmobile operations.

When not scheduled for bookmobile duties, this position works from the primary outreach service location and assists with general outreach activities, including homebound delivery, pop-up library events, and presentations to schools, community groups, and civic organizations. This role requires substantial public interaction, the ability to work independently with limited supervision, and a flexible schedule that may include daytime, evening, and weekend hours.

Works in both indoor and outdoor environments, including frequent travel within the service area and operation/driving of oversized vehicles and a large bookmobile. May encounter high-noise settings and variable weather conditions. Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. independently and up to 50 lbs. with assistance; push a loaded book truck on and off the bookmobile; set up outreach and pop-up library equipment; and shelve materials, which requires bending, stooping, and reaching overhead. Regularly involves extended periods of standing and sitting.

Applies working knowledge of basic library practices, procedures and related equipment.

Interprets library policies and procedures to the general public and staff in a clear and tactful manner.

Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with staff and the general public.

Covers the public desk as assigned.

May lead or assist with public computer classes and equipment/material instruction.

May participate in acquisition and cataloging functions.

May arrange branch exhibits and displays and programming for all age groups.

May prepare statistical and other monthly and/or annual reports.

Serves on in-house committees as required.

May perform interlibrary loan processing.

Performs other related work (including weather or other extreme emergency duties) as required.

High school graduate or equivalent.

One (1) or more years of customer service experience.

Valid driver license required, with valid Florida driver license required within 30 days of hire.

Prior library experience and shift lead/supervisory experience desired.

Some college coursework preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Able to comprehend and follow oral and written instructions. Organizes own work and completes tasks within assigned timeframes. Able to resolve routine situations and problems.

General knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job duties.

General knowledge and understanding of computer applications and software programs required to perform job duties, including library-related software applications.

Good written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills to be able to interact professionally and effectively with co-workers, management, the general public, and other stakeholders. Able to communicate information that requires explanation or interpretation.

Capable of working under moderate supervision.

Circulation - Transit

Drive county vehicle to deliver library materials within the different branches. Able to work independently without direct supervision. 

Veterans Preference 

In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.

EEO/ADA Statement

Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at 941-748-4501 x 3865.

Drug-Free Workplace

Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.

Emergency Response/Recovery Activities 

All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.