Library Assistant / Youth Services Specialist

GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK: 

Performs intermediate skilled clerical work in the public library; plays a key role in implementing programs and services designed for preschool through teens; does related work as required. Work is performed under the regular supervision of the Library Director.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS:

Assists children and caregivers in selecting resources, promotes interest in reading and libraries among preschool and school-age children, as well as organizes and presents Storytimes and other age-appropriate engaging programs for pre-school through teenage patrons and supporting community outreach initiatives. Provide clerical duties such as operating circulation desk; checking books, magazines, videos and other materials in and out of library; responding to questions from patrons; assisting library patrons. 

(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 if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.)

• Plan, organize, and implement programs for children, teens, and families, including Storytimes, summer reading programs, STEAM activities, and craft workshops.
• Collaborate with schools, community organizations, and other partners to offer outreach and educational programming.
• Create engaging displays, book lists, and materials to promote youth library services.
• Assist with the selection and weeding of children’s and young adult collections.
• Stay current on youth literature and recommend new titles for acquisition.
• Provide assistance to youth and families in locating materials, using library resources, and understanding programs.
• Assist in the circulation of materials, including checking items in and out, processing holds, and shelving materials.
• Represent the library at community events, school visits, and fairs to promote youth services.
• Build relationships with local schools, daycare centers, and youth organizations to foster partnerships and increase awareness of library services.
• Encourage literacy through book recommendations, one-on-one assistance, and the promotion of early literacy tools and resources.
• Lead initiatives such as reading challenges and book clubs for youth and teens.
• Maintain accurate records of program attendance, participant feedback, and outreach efforts.
• Assist in the promotion of library programs and services through social media, newsletters, and flyers.
• Works at circulation desk checking materials in and out of library; enters data into computer system.
• Assists with research, cataloguing or other services and programs as assigned.
• Assists patrons with locating library materials; assists patrons in use of copier and computer.
• Registers new library patrons and enters data into computer; processes library cards.
• Assist patrons with the use of public computers, digital resources, and other library technologies.
• Offer reader’s advisory services by recommending books and resources based on patron interests.
• Orders requested books on NC Cardinal and maintaining inter-library loan files.
• Checks NC Cardinal for pending loans.
• Assists with homebound delivery services when necessary.
• Enters inter-library loan data into computer system; prints out inter-library loan requests; enters book reserves, holds and loans into computer system.
• Assist with balancing revenues daily.
• Performs related tasks as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

General knowledge of library routine and procedures; knowledge of office terminology, procedures and equipment; ability to follow established procedures and to perform work requiring some detail; skill in the use of office and data entry equipment; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and library patrons. The role requires strong communication skills, creativity, and the ability to work with diverse audiences.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school and moderate experience working in a library.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This is light work requiring the exertion of up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects; work requires climbing, stooping, reaching, standing, walking, fingering, grasping, and repetitive motions; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, operation of machines, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is not subject to adverse environmental conditions.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of an appropriate driver's license valid in the State of North Carolina.