Library - Library Assistant

position title: library assistant (full-time)

department: library

flsa status: non-exempt - hourly

salary: grade d

starting: $16.61

supervision: library director

last reviewed: 8/3/26

this patron-focused role is responsible for organizing the library, helping the public find materials, and answering questions about library services. This position works 40 hours a week, including one weeknight and every other saturday. It operates under the guidance and close supervision of the library director.

• meet the library’s customer service standards in all interactions with the public and staff.
• performs circulation and reference desk duties, including, but not limited to, answering phones, assisting patrons, creating library card accounts, checking in and out materials, placing holds, and collecting fees for lost/damaged items.
• assists patrons with faxes, copies, retrieves prints, and performs basic computer support as requested.
• comfortable with standard responses to frequently asked questions (faqs) from the public.
• able to recommend appropriate reading material based on the customer’s needs.
• understand and apply knowledge of the dewey decimal system when shelving or locating non-fiction materials.
• understand and utilize the tennessee electronic library (tel)
• answers directional questions and refers patrons to appropriate personnel.
• shelves, “shelf reads,” and keeps the library organized and user-friendly, including maintaining library exhibits and displays as requested.
• performs custodial duties as necessary.
• occasionally assists with implementing programs and conducting outreach activities.
• other duties as assigned.

• high school diploma or ged required.
• must be at least 18 years old.
• must possess a valid tennessee driver’s license or be able to obtain one in a reasonable period.
• mathematical ability: calculate fees and copier money and make correct change.
• time management skills: set priorities and meet assigned deadlines.
• communication skills, both written and oral
• reading ability: effectively read and understand information in written form.
• ability to comprehend and follow instructions.

• knowledge of practices of public libraries, basic library principles, and procedures.
• positive, enthusiastic, patron-oriented approach to public service.
• ability to accept delegation and work under general direction with or without close supervision
• ability to provide individual instruction on library, literary, and basic technology topics.
• ability to represent the city of la vergne professionally and respectfully at all times.

the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully.

while performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and stand; talk or listen. The employee is constantly required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

public service and patron interaction: the library assistant works primarily within the library, engaging directly with patrons of all ages to assist, including locating materials, answering inquiries, and facilitating access to library services. This role emphasizes a strong service orientation, requiring excellent communication skills, patience, and a friendly demeanor.

collection and resource management: assistants are involved in a variety of tasks related to the management…