Public Services Library Assistant

Library Assistant

The Library Assistant provides essential customer service and operational support that advances the Library's mission and enhances the patron experience. This position serves as a primary point of contact for patrons, providing assistance, information, and support across various library services, programs, and daily operations. The Library Assistant promotes a welcoming and accessible environment while contributing to the effective delivery of library resources and services.

Under the direct supervision of the Deputy Director – Public Services or assigned supervisor, the Library Assistant is responsible for performing a variety of customer service, administrative, and operational duties to support daily library functions and services. Responsibilities include assisting patrons, supporting library programs and resources, maintaining collections and materials, and performing routine tasks across various service areas. The position works collaboratively with library staff to ensure efficient operations and a positive experience for all patrons.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. Essential duties are not necessarily listed in priority order.

• Provides consistent, professional, and welcoming customer service to library patrons at service desks, including assisting with reference questions, readers' advisory, program information, database instruction, and general library and community resources.
• Performs circulation and patron account services, including registering new cardholders, updating accounts, processing holds, checking materials in and out, and collecting applicable fines and fees.
• Supports daily library operations, including opening and closing procedures, room reservations, maintaining organized and accessible collections, shelving materials, and ensuring a safe, clean, and welcoming environment.
• Assists patrons with technology needs, including computers, photocopiers, microfilm readers, personal devices, and downloadable content.
• Provides support for library programs, outreach activities, promotional materials, displays, and other assigned projects as needed.
• Participates in library committees and other initiatives that support library services and operations.
• Completes special projects and other job duties as assigned or required.

Minimum Education and Experience The requirements listed below are necessary to perform the essential duties of the position

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent
• Experience: A minimum of one (1) years of experience in public library services, customer service, or closely related field
• Other: Access to personal or public transportation for job-related duties.

The qualifications listed below are preferred, but not required to perform the essential duties of the position. The absence of these qualifications on a candidate's application does not preclude them from consideration.

• College coursework or degree in library science, education, or a related field is preferred.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills are beneficial

The City of Middleton recognizes that candidates may bring a variety of backgrounds and experiences. An equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant work experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the essential duties, as determined by Human Resources, may be considered

Competencies For successful performance in this position, the incumbent must demonstrate the following competencies.

Knowledge

• Working knowledge of public library operations and circulation processes.
• Working knowledge of computers, office software, printers, and copiers

Skills

• Strong organizational and time management skills to handle to high volume of work, set priorities effectively, and adapt to shifting demands
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, complemented by strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Collaboration skills to effectively work with others, fostering teamwork, clear communication, and creative problem solving
• Entry level of proficiency in technology, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and other relevant software applications

Abilities

• Ability to perform work duties under general supervision and operate within policy guidelines using independent judgment in achieving assigned objectives
• Ability to perform basic mathematics (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
• Ability to demonstrate integrity, honesty, initiative, and respect while maintaining strict confidentiality in all aspects of work
• Ability to comply with all safety policies, practices, and procedures, and report all unsafe activities or conditions to a supervisor
• Ability to exhibit exceptional professionalism, tact, and decorum in all areas of work duties.
• Ability to be reliable, timely, and proactive in the completion of duties, meeting deadlines, and…