Library Assistant -Public Services

Library Assistant I – Public Services

Under the supervision of the Public Services Librarian, perform public service work and technical service work serving library users directly and indirectly. The Library Assistant I – Public Services position is part-time (20 hours per week) and is not eligible for benefits. Work schedule is typically during library hours, varies, and includes one evening shift per week and one Saturday shift approximately every 3-4 weeks.

DUTIES/EXAMPLES OF WORK

• Provide direct assistance to library users at public service desks in person or by phone, including checking items out and in; assistance meeting information needs; instruction using the internet, library database and SCLS online resources; readers' advisory; and basic computer troubleshooting.
• Arrange returned materials on book trucks and accurately shelve them according to call number and other identifying labels.
• Read shelves, checking items for accurate placement, straighten materials in the collection, both while shelving, and as assigned.
• Empty book drop and sort and take returned items to the proper place for checking in.
• Check shelves for materials from overdue and other reports.
• Coordinate displays in public areas.
• Perform opening and closing procedures.
• Complete pick lists and assist with other collection maintenance tasks such as discarding and repairing materials.
• Sort mail and receive deliveries.
• Regularly communicate with supervisor to discuss plans, share information, and receive direction.
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of library methods, policies, and procedures and the ability to apply them to library operations. Knowledge of the Dewey Decimal System.
• Ability to communicate effectively with staff and public, and maintain good public relations.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to maintain and foster cooperative and courteous working relationships with the public, peers and supervisors.
• Ability to work independently, organize and prioritize work, respond to varied/changing work demands and make decisions as appropriate.
• Willingness to maintain skills in above-mentioned areas through active participation in appropriate continuing education activities.
• Working knowledge of English grammar and spelling. Knowledge of Spanish helpful.
• Demonstration of good character as determined through a background investigation.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE POSITION

• Sitting, standing, walking, climbing and stooping.
• Bending/twisting and reaching.
• Talking and hearing; use of telephone.
• Far vision at 20 feet or further; near vision at 20 inches or less; use of computers
• Lifting and carrying: 50 pounds or less.
• Handling, processing, picking up and shelving library materials.
• Fingering: keyboarding, writing, filing, sorting, shelving and processing.
• Pushing and pulling: objects weighing 60-80 pounds on wheels.
• Mobility: travel to meetings outside library.
• Ability to work in confined spaces.

MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Communication
  
  Skills:
  
  Effectively communicate ideas in both written and oral form.
• Reading Ability:
  Effectively read and understand information contained in emails, memos, reports, bulletins, etc.
• Mathematical Ability:
  Calculate basic arithmetic problems (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) without the aid of a calculator.
• Ability to Comprehend and Follow Instructions:
  Effectively follow verbal and written instructions from supervisor and interpret technical procedures and instructions.
• Time Management:
  Set priorities in order to meet assignment deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively in a constantly changing environment.

ENVIRONMENTAL/WORKING CONDITIONS

• Stress from working with the public and under deadlines.
• Possible eyestrain and headaches from computer screens
• Frequent Standing, sitting, getting up and down, stooping, bending, etc…
• Possibility of workplace violence
• Weekend and evening work year round
• Indoor work environment

EQUIPMENT USED Includes book cart, building security system, calculator, camera, computer and peripherals such as printers and scanners, copy machine, media players, fax machine, microfilm reader-printers, paper cutter, paper shredder, popular consumer electronic devices, digital projector, telephone, smartphone.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Required:
  
  High school diploma or equivalent and two years of study at an accredited college, university or technical school
• Preferred:
  Experience working in a public library and/or customer service experience
• Required:
  
  Keyboarding, computer skills, and general office skills