Library Assistant

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This position assists with the provision of children’s services, including design and presentation of children’s programs at the Columbia County Library as well as outreach programs to schools, day-care and community groups. Position is also responsible for seeing that patrons are provided services promptly and courteously and for certain additional clerical functions that are vital to successful library operation.

Guidelines consist of the library branch manual, the county personnel manual, relevant county procedures, and supervisor’s instructions. Guidelines require judgement, selection and interpretation in application.

Contacts are typically with people or organizations in the community which utilize services of the library. Contacts are also with fellow employees in the library system.

Work is performed sitting at a desk with moderate and intermittently standing, sitting, walking, reaching, bending, crouching and stooping to access material. Employee must frequently lift light (less than 25 pounds) objects and must occasionally lift heavy (25-50 pounds) objects. Employee must possess

• Assists with the design and preparation of children's programs, including regularly scheduled story times, special seasonal presentations, outreach programs for daycares and schools and other children’s activities as needed.
• Provides reference service in children’s literature, including instruction in the use of library materials and assistance with electronic tools and resources.
• Assists with children’s tutorials, flyers, posters bulletin boards, and book display as needed.
• Provides support to children’s staff in the expansion of children’s services and programs.
• Staffs the children’s desk assisting children and other library patrons in locating materials and information, including reader’s advisory service.
• Ensures continuity of operations in the absence of the Children’s Manager and the Children’s Specialist.
• Performs other related duties as assigned

• Knowledge of children’s literature, authors and illustrators and storytelling techniques.
• Knowledge of cataloging system.
• Knowledge of state and county guidelines relevant to the operation of county libraries.
• Knowledge of library-specific and word processing software internet searching and use of personal computer.
• Knowledge of certain bookkeeping principles.
• Skill in oral and written communication and public speaking.
• Skill in dealing with patrons tactfully.
• Skill in using standard office equipment, including computers, calculators, photocopiers, etc.

A Masters Degree in Library Science from a college or university accredited by the American Library Association is preferred but not required. Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with completion of specialized training in the field of work in addition to basic skills typically associated with a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. Experience sufficient to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position.

Possession of or the ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license.

A combination of education and/or work experience may be substituted for minimum requirements.