Library Assistant II - Youth Services - Main Branch

General Description

Under general supervision, perform and supervise a variety of responsible paraprofessional library tasks in departmental areas; plan and execute programs for children and young adults; and assist patrons with reference questions.

May exercise technical and functional supervision over lower‑level staff and volunteers.

• Under the supervision of the Children’s Librarian, develop and present engaging, informative programs for children and young adults.
• Review books and other materials for potential acquisition to support the library’s collection development goals.
• Maintain accurate and organized departmental files and records.
• Utilize audiovisual materials in support of library programming and events.
• Assist patrons by explaining library policies and procedures; locating and utilizing requested materials; supporting use of library facilities for programs; conducting research assistance across a variety of subject areas; and instructing patrons in the use of library equipment and resources.
• Provide support for all circulation functions as needed, including registering patrons, checking materials in and out, processing returns, and collecting payments.
• Offer Readers’ Advisory services to children, young adults, and adults to support their informational and recreational reading needs.
• Operate a city or personal vehicle weekly to travel to various sites for programming purposes.

Perform other job-related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Library collections with emphasis on children’s literature; developmental stages of children; modern electronic equipment; advanced computer skills; basic principles of customer service and public engagement within a library setting.

• Plan effective programs.
• Work effectively with children and parents.
• Produce creative materials to use in programming.
• Present and apply dedicated commitment to public service.
• Maintain a positive attitude and strong work ethic.

• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with children, adults, and co-workers.
• Interact with patrons and staff tactfully, respectfully, and professionally at all times.
• Travel to other branches and to outside locations for programs.
• Work evenings and weekends when schedule requires.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, both internally and externally.
• Follow and embrace the City of Abilene Core Values – Respect, Integrity, Service Above Self, and Excellence in All We Do.
• Perform as a team member in a manner that accomplishes the Division’s mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect.

For positions with more than one level, all listed requirements at the lower levels are required at the higher levels. Any combination equivalent to experience and training to provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be qualifying. Knowledge, skills, and abilities may be obtained through:

• Two (2) years of experience in a public library is preferred.
• One (1) year of customer service experience is preferred.
• One (1) year of experience working in the field of education or early childhood service is preferred.

A high school diploma or GED is required. College‐level coursework in early childhood development and/or education is preferred.

A valid Texas driver’s license; the ability to obtain one within ninety (90) days of employment, or a military waiver is required.

• Travel to other branches and to outside locations for programs.
• Work evenings and weekends when schedule requires.
• Outreach and other programming may necessitate working outside in seasonal weather conditions as needed.

Essential duties require the following physical skills and work environment:
___ Sedentary – lifting of no more than 10 pounds
___ Light – lifting no more than 20 pounds; carrying up to 10 pounds
_X_ Medium – lifting no more than 50 pounds; carrying up to 25 pounds
___ Heavy – lifting no more than 100 pounds; carrying up to 50 pounds
___ Very Heavy – team lifting over 100 pounds; carrying more than 50 pounds

The following describes whether or not the position is expected to exert the physical demands listed during a typical workday as well as the overall frequency of the task:
Codes For How Often
N = No
E = Extensive (100 – 70% of the time)
M = Moderate (60 – 30% of the time)
I = Infrequent (20 – 10% of the time)
A = Almost Never (