Library Assistant ; part time

Description

Bloomfield Public Library seeks a community‑focused, friendly and technically savvy library assistant who can professionally promote the library and communicate effectively with a diverse public. The Library Assistant provides public service to patrons while performing circulation department duties and provides excellent customer service at four locations: two physical locations at Prosser Library and McMahon Wintonbury Library, BPL Online—the library's electronic presence, and BPL Everywhere—representing the library's community outreach.

This is a part‑time non‑benefitted position.

The number of scheduled hours will vary depending on the candidate and will be determined based on the needs of the service desk, programming, and ongoing projects. The expected commitment is approximately 10‑15 hours per week, with shifts scheduled across a combination of daytime, evening, and weekend hours.

• Serves as first contact for patrons at the library service desk, community events, and via phone; refers to appropriate staff member, if required.
• Performs standard circulation duties related to borrowing and returning materials (checks materials in and out; makes sure materials are in proper condition; issues library cards; renews library materials; provides information about library services and programs; places hold on library materials for patrons; calls patron if library materials are overdue or have something missing; calls patron about items on hold being available;
  
  etc.).
• Assists with loading/unloading and shelving library materials (empties book drops; prepares books from other libraries for delivery truck; shelf reading and reshelving materials; etc.).
• Assists patrons in finding books or library materials if able.
• Assists with maintenance of order in the library; helps maintain reading areas and displays in a neat, organized manner; etc.
• Contributes to library programming.
• Assists other department staff to promote a team effort in serving the public.
• Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion through continuous development, modeling inclusive behaviors, and proactively addressing social justice issues.
• Participates in ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge: General knowledge of practices of library services provided in a public library setting; working knowledge of library principles and practices, particularly classification systems; working knowledge of office procedures, practices and terminology; working knowledge of the use of office/library automation applications and equipment, business arithmetic; general knowledge of local government and its operation is helpful.

Ability: Ability to deal effectively with the public in a friendly, patient, courteous and professional manner; ability to follow instructions and complete projects with minimal supervision; ability to utilize computer applications as they apply to library functions; ability to maintain records; ability to work independently; ability to follow written and oral instructions; ability of work as part of a team; ability to deal effectively and maintain working relationships with various groups;

ability to administer policies and procedures and explain them.

Skill: Skill using good verbal communication; skill using the above‑mentioned office equipment and computer systems; aptitude for working with and explaining policies and procedures to people; skills associated with dealing with people and maintaining effective working relationships with various groups; basic clerical and computer skills; aptitude for working with people; aptitude for working with paperwork and on computers.

High School Diploma or equivalency and one year of related work experience, preferably in a library or with computers. Must be proficient in customer service, use of computers and Microsoft Office Suite, and use of standard office equipment and office procedures. Must be available to work flexible hours: daytimes, evenings, and weekends.