LIBRARY ASSISTANT
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General Summary
The Library Assistant performs para-professional library work; to check in and out library materials; to provide circulation desk services such as patron registration and direction; to assist in technical support services; and to perform related work as assigned.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform circulation functions including checking in and out library materials, renewing library materials, processing hold materials and routing materials to other libraries, and collecting fines and fees.
- Assist patrons in assigned area. Involves: proactively provide customer service and assist patrons through various aspects of utilizing the library, including the Public Access Catalog, copiers, printers, and checkout of library materials.
- Register new patrons by reviewing application forms and issuing library cards; receive and process changes of address, name, etc.
- Perform back office operations including interlibray loan within the Superiorland Cooperative, materials repair, follow up on lost and overdue items, changing statuses of books, and process new books for circulation.
- Assist patrons with routine to difficult specialized library services to include inquiries in person, by phone, or other digital means including reference services, local/history/genealogical services; conducts reference interviews and research to determine the most efficient method of locating reference information.
- Adds to the overall success and efficiency of the library by organizing and maintaining the stacks including but not limited to: shelving, shifting, rotating, weeding, and alphabetizing library materials as directed, Monitors the appearance of the public areas during assigned shifts.
- Interprets, explains, and applies library policy and procedure to respond to customer concerns.
- Promotes library programs, outreach efforts, and events verbally and by disseminating written information to patrons at desk. Provides support at Library events.
- Assists in the planning, development and delivery of programming such as adult and youth programs, technology classes, makerspace workshops, discussion groups; creates book displays and exhibits; assists with tours and may represent the Library and its services to community organizations.
- Keeps abreast of professional developments and current issues through continued education and professional growth. Attends conferences, workshops, and seminars as appropriate.
- Attend scheduled and unscheduled departmental and all-staff meetings.
- Report building maintenance problems.
- Other duties as assigned.
Performance Standard
Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community and the organization through work behaviors demonstrating the American Library Association’s code of ethics. Employees are expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of integrity.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
- The Library, at its discretion, may consider an alternative combination of formal education and work experience.
- Some knowledge of varied print and digital resources.
- Basic library skills.
- Knowledge and practice of principles and processes for providing customer service. This includes setting and meeting quality standards for
services, and evaluation of patron satisfaction. - Skilled in the use of office equipment and technology, including Microsoft and Google Suite applications, and the ability to master software utilized in library operations, and the ability to learn new technologies.
- Knowledge of the internet, databases, online library catalog and software usage to assist patrons.
- Ability to develop and maintain cooperative and professional relationships with Library patrons, employees, and all levels of management.
- Ability to plan and organize a daily work routine. Able to estimate the expected time of completion of elements of work and establish a personal schedule accordingly. Implement work activities in accordance with priorities and estimated schedules.
- Ability to listen and understand information and ideas being presented verbally and in writing.
- Ability to handle a variety of personal information in a confidential manner.
- Ability to perform mathematical calculations involving the collection of
fees and fines. - Ability to change work priorities as needed.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends.
- Ability to file alphabetically and numerically.
- Ability to reasonably accommodate patron needs in a courteous and effective manner.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends.
- Excellent written and verbal communication.
Physical Demands/Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee must frequently lift and/or move objects up to 10 pounds. The employee is required to reach with hands and arms, bend, and stoop. Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation. The employee is regularly required to talk and hear in a library setting of quiet to moderate noise.
Some tasks require perceiving and discriminating sounds and visual cues or signals.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.