Public Services Assistant - Vashon

Job Title and Location

King County Library System (KCLS) is seeking a motivated and skilled Public Services Assistant (PSA) to provide service in the Vashon Library. The PSA assists patrons with information about library materials, equipment, programs, and services in order to help them succeed through ideas, interaction, and information. This position provides assistance in person, online, and over the phone. The PSA also works in library material circulation and materials handling, assists patrons in using computers and printers, ensures that library technology functions, and addresses patron behavior issues.

PSAs may need to de‑escalate and resolve disputes, enforce the Patron Code of Conduct, and handle challenging situations with patrons.

• Provides information assistance and readers’ advisory assistance as expected, in person, online or over the phone, including use of library resources, equipment and technology. Assists patrons in the use of library collections through reference interviews, literature and electronic searches and instruction in the use of catalogs, paper and electronic resources. Refers questions to a librarian, as necessary.
• Educates, trains and assists patrons in the use of library technology, equipment and resources. Reports needs for repair and non‑routine maintenance to ITS, as appropriate. If assigned the duty, troubleshoots problems escalated from the basic level of AMH support and contacts vendors, as necessary.
• Assists patrons with check‑in and check‑out and with locating materials at a branch and within KCLS. Resolves problems with patron’s account and record. Assists patrons and staff with scheduling and using facility including meeting rooms.
• Promotes, educates and supports the principles of intellectual freedom with staff and patrons. Resolves related concerns or redirects to appropriate source.
• Resolves staff and patron incidents, problems, concerns and conflicts ensuring that Rules of Conduct are followed or redirects to appropriate source.
• Performs full range of circulation duties as outlined in the Circulation Manual.
• Provides assistance with and delivers library programs, as assigned.
• Completes reports as required.
• Promotes and displays materials, services and programs.
• Provides mentoring and training for staff in areas of expertise.
• Works a varied schedule, including evenings and weekends.

• Participates in committee work, training, staff meetings.
• Performs daily cash handling and register functions.
• Performs lower classification duties as needed.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• Associate’s or technical degree or certificate.
• Three (3) years’ experience in a library or service‑oriented setting.
• Combination of education and experience that meets required qualifications.
• Direct customer service experience, ability to model and champion intellectual freedom, and work confidently with diverse communities.
• Languages:
  
  Spanish and Japanese encouraged.

Stand, walk, lift up to 35 lb on occasion. Frequent use of keyboard and mouse. Frequent interruptions, variable work hours including evenings and weekends.

Library setting with occasional behavioral issues; requires flexibility, extended computer work.

KCLS has a vision of a world where knowledge allows diverse communities to prosper and grow. We create opportunities through meaningful connections by acting as the knowledge‑sharing center for over 1.5 million diverse patrons, providing an unparalleled collection of library materials, resources, technology, services, and programs. Approximately 1,000 staff provide service in 50 community library locations and patron engagement using direct outreach, programs, and virtual assistance.

The King County Library System values the diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and cultures of all qualified individuals.…