PT Library Assistant

 Statement of Duties 
 
Performs paraprofessional librarian tasks for a Library department. 
 
Supervision 
 
Incumbent works under the direct supervision of the Patron Services Supervisor or Technical Services Librarian, who provides work assignments and work direction.  

When working at a point of service desk, incumbent performs tasks independently under the 
day-to-day supervision of Lead Librarians. Library policies and procedures are available and must be observed and followed. 
 
Job Environment 
 
Work is generally performed under typical office conditions. 

This is varied work, involving many detailed operations at times, but much of the work is of a repetitive nature. Incumbent understands sequence of tasks to be performed and performs it. Some creativity and originality is called for, especially in assisting in setting up special programs, exhibits, and displays. 
 
Operates a computer and general office equipment.

Makes regular contact with municipal employees, the public, historical societies, vendors, schools, and teachers. Contact is by telephone or in person. 

Has no access to confidential information.

Errors in administration could result in delays or loss of service. 

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. 
 
•Assists readers in location of books, periodicals, and other materials in person and over telephone.  


•Registers borrowers and charges/discharges books in accordance with procedures. 
 
•Collects fines and payment for lost books.

•Maintains circulation records.

•Prepares and sends overdue notices. 

•Shelves returned materials and shelf reads as needed. 
 
•Opens library and secures library at end of day. 

•Performs periodic “walk throughs” and other aspects of building security.  
 
•Performs clerical duties associated with the inter-library loan service. 

•Catalogs and processes new materials.

•Maintains the library “catalog” to reflect library holdings.

•May search statewide or nationwide database for Marc records or assist in ordering of supplies through electronic catalog vendors. 

•Assists with book mending; glues loose or torn pages, covers jackets and performs general repair tasks. 

•May compile quarterly, semi-annual, and annual statistics relating to library activities. 
 
•Instructs patrons on the use of microfiche equipment, word processors and the Internet. 
 
•Maintains bulletin boards with current information. 

•Uses social media to publicize library resources and services.

•Creates signs, posters, flyers, and other promotional materials.

•Other duties as assigned.
 

Education and Experience 
 
•High school diploma or equivalent 
•Completed at least one college-level course
•1 year of experience in library work 

Knowledge, Ability and Skill

A candidate for this position should have working knowledge of: 

•English grammar and spelling
•The library system for locating books, periodicals, reference and other reading materials
•Library operations and available services/programs

and be able to: 

•Maintain harmonious relationships with department members and other city employees
•Communicate effectively, orally and in writing with employees and the public
•Ability to perform routine and repetitive work 
•Use a computer to aid library patrons with research
•Manage multiple tasks in an organized manner
 
Physical Requirements

•Position requires the ability to operate computer keyboard and standard office equipment. 
•Prolonged periods in a stationary position.
•Occasionally move about inside the office to access equipment.
•Consistently position self to maintain office equipment and documents.
•Physical strength to move and push object up to 60lbs. 
•Ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand.
•Ability to observe items at a close range.
•Ability to adjust focus at close and distant vision.