Elementary Library Assistant

Job Details

• Location:
  
  Bruce Guadalupe Elementary, Milwaukee, WI 53204
• Position Type:
  Full Time
• Education Level: High School
• Job Category:
  Education

The Library Assistant supports the mission of the Library Media Program by providing clerical, technical, and instructional assistance to the Library Media Specialist(s) and/or Library Teacher. The role includes helping students and teachers locate and use library media resources, maintaining an organized and welcoming environment, fostering a love for reading, managing classroom behavior, and building relationships with students, families, and colleagues.

Customer Service:

• Assist students and staff in locating and using materials in the library media center.
• Provide guidance on the use of library resources, catalogs, databases, and digital tools.
• Encourage student selection of reading materials based on interests and reading levels.
• Assist with instructional tasks during library classes.
• Monitor student use of technology and maintain a safe environment.

Library Operations:

• Shelve returned books and ensure correct organization.
• Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of the library.
• Repair and mend damaged books or materials as needed.
• Check materials in and out, send overdue announcements, and maintain records.
• Schedule and deliver technology and equipment.
• Shelve books in Dewey Decimal order and manage periodicals.
• Assist with inventory and catalog maintenance.
• Cover library classes and circulation when staff are absent.

Program Support:

• Assist in planning and executing library programs and events such as book fairs, public library card drives, reading challenges, author visits, and volunteer activities.
• Create displays and bulletin boards to promote library resources.
• Support classroom teachers with library‑based instructional materials.

Administrative Tasks:

• Maintain accurate records of inventory and circulation statistics.
• Assist in cataloging and processing new acquisitions.
• Manage overdue book notices and follow up with students and parents.
• Staff the circulation desk and handle telephone calls and walk‑in patrons in English and/or Spanish.
• Order and process materials and equipment.
• Maintain office supplies inventory and prepare orders.
• Data entry for automated circulation and catalog systems.

Classroom Management:

• Support a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment.
• Maintain clear expectations, routines, and procedures for student behavior.
• Effectively monitor and supervise students in all school settings.
• Manage student behavior proactively and respectfully using positive supports.
• Keep the library space organized, structured, and culturally responsive.

Professional Development &

Collaboration:

• Participate in staff meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Reflect on practices and seek continuous improvement.
• Engage in professional learning communities and school wide initiatives.
• Collaborate with colleagues, support staff, and administration to support student success.
• Contribute to a positive school culture and shared leadership.

Records and Documentation:

• Uphold school, district, and state policies on child safety, mandated reporting, and confidentiality.

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• One‑year office experience in a similar setting.
• Good organizational and communication skills with attention to detail.
• Customer service skills and language proficiency in Spanish (bilingual preferred).
• Basic computer knowledge (Word, Excel, Google Drive; email; Google Forms).
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Self‑motivated, able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong multi‑tasking, time‑management, and ability to meet deadlines.

• Move around the library, bend, kneel, stand, walk, climb stairs, and sit for extended periods.
• Visual and auditory acuity to supervise students and respond to classroom needs.
• Lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects up to 25 pounds.
• Monitor student safety and provide physical assistance when necessary.
• Operate computers and classroom technology and perform repetitive wrist and hand movements.
• Work frequently at close visual range and for extended screen time.

• General work in a library/school/office environment with frequent interaction with students, staff, and families.
• May require supervising students in varied settings.
• May involve occasional exposure to illnesses, noise, and interruptions.
• Manage multiple tasks in a dynamic, fast‑paced setting.
• Work schedule follows the school calendar and may include morning arrival or after‑school responsibilities.
• Moderate to occasional loud noise from classrooms, lunchrooms, playgrounds, and computer use.
• May be required to operate a motor vehicle for duties.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to perform essential functions.

UCC provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities.