25/26 - Library Clerk

Mercer Island School District; Mercer Island (WA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The Mercer Island School District seeks a Library Clerk/Paraprofessional to support library operations and enhance student learning. This role focuses on managing library resources, instructing, and creating an engaging environment for students. Candidates should have a passion for reading and experience with school-aged children.

Benefits

Health benefits through SEBB

Retirement benefits through DRS

Qualifications

• One to three years of clerical, volunteer, or library experience preferred.
• Experience working with school-aged children strongly preferred.
• Completion of Washington State paraeducator training is expected after hire.

Responsibilities

• Perform duties to ensure smooth operation of the school library.
• Supervise students and library volunteers.
• Assist with programming and collection development.

Skills

Organization

Communication

Collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Google Suite

Job description

This positionworks the school year180 day work calendarand iseligible for health benefits through SEBBand retirement benefits through the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS).

Mercer Island School District

JOB TITLE: Library Clerk/Paraprofessional

REPORTING: Building Administrator

CALENDAR: 183 work days

CLASSIFICATION: Classified, MIEA Position 1

Position Purpose

Perform and coordinate activities to ensure the smooth operation of the school library. The Library Clerk supports student engagement and academic success through collaborative work with the certificated librarian, school staff, and fellow clerks across the district. The role includes maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment, managing volunteers, curating instructional resources, and delivering instruction as directed.

Essential Functions

(These duties are a representative sample; position assignments may vary)

• Make library resources accessible to all patrons
• Order, process, catalog, and maintain library materials
• Check books and other materials in and out
• Return library materials to proper places and ensure orderly shelves
• Guide, train, and supervise library volunteers in proper library procedures
• Supervise students and ensure a respectful and safe library environment
• Deliver lessons prepared by certificated staff as requested
• Assist certificated librarian with programming, collection development, and student access
• Manage collection development through selection, acquisition, and de-selection in collaboration with the certificated librarian
• Curate subject-specific curriculum resources and organize library materials for classroom use
• Maintain and update library databases and patron records
• Answer phones and respond to in person and electronic inquiries with clarity and professionalism
• Coordinate maintenance and use of library office and media equipment
• Conduct at least annual inventory of library materials
• Promote the library as a critical resource for literacy, innovation, and academic success
• Develop and maintain a welcoming atmosphere of respect and rapport with students, staff, and families
• Assist with establishing community relationships to expand student access to library resources
• Participate in collaborative efforts across elementary schools with other library clerks and the overseeing certificated librarian
• Collaborate with the principal and certificated staff within the building to support school-specific initiatives, events, and instructional activities
• Perform duties as a mandatory reporter for suspected incidents of child abuse, harassment, intimidation, bullying, boundary invasions, fights, or substance abuse
• Perform other duties directly related to the purpose of the position

Supervisory Responsibilities

Supervise student patrons and volunteers in the library and during assigned transitions or duties (e.g., walking, bus, or crossing guard assignments).

Qualification Requirements

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 essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• One to three years of clerical, volunteer, or library experience preferred
• Experience working with school-aged children strongly preferred
• Passion for reading, learning, and supporting student development
• Completion of Washington State paraeducator training is expected after hire
• Successful Washington State Patrol and FBI fingerprint clearance required
• Complete Human Resources new hire training (District-provided within 60 days of hire)

Language Skills

Must possess the ability to read, comprehend, and clearly explain safety protocols, policy documents, and technical instructions. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English are essential for effectively interacting with students, staff, families, and the broader school community

Mathematical Skills

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions and solve problems in varied situations.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated knowledge of media resources and library management practices strongly preferred
• Working knowledge of Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Forms) and basic information technology tools required
• Commitment to multicultural sensitivity and inclusive service to diverse communities
• Collaborative mindset, especially in working with school staff and library colleagues across schools
• Ability to manage multiple tasks with attention to detail in a dynamic school environment
• Ability to meet and maintain punctuality and attendance expectations
• Ability to perform all duties in accordance with Board policies, district expectations, and legal mandates

Physical/Mental Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This role requires a combination of physical stamina and mental focus, including the ability to:

• Stand, walk, sit, and reach for extended periods
• Perform frequent repetitive motions involving the hands, arms, and fingers
• Stooping, kneeling, crouching, and squatting as needed to access materials or assist students
• Reach forward and occasionally overhead
• Type continuously and use fine motor skills with accuracy
• Lift up to 25 pounds from floor to waist or waist to shoulder
• Push or pull library carts weighing up to 75 pounds
• Carry up to 25 pounds for short distances (up to 25 feet)

Specific sensory abilities required include:

• Close vision for reading and computer work
• Hearing sufficient to engage in conversation in both quiet and moderately noisy environments
• Clear speech to communicate effectively with students, staff, and families

This position also requires the ability to:

• Maintain concentration amid frequent interruptions
• Manage and track multiple tasks simultaneously
• Occasionally interact with individuals experiencing emotional distress or challenging behavior in a calm and professional manner

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work is primarily performed indoors in a school library setting. The employee is regularly in contact with students, digital devices, library technology, and standard instructional materials. Exposure to common school-related illnesses and distractions associated with an active educational environment should be expected.

Employment Conditions :

This is a classified position represented by the Mercer Island Education Association – Classified Unit. The work schedule aligns with the District’s student calendar. Salary and benefits are established by the current collective bargaining agreement, with placement on the wage schedule determined by verified training and relevant experience.

Evaluation Procedures:

The Library Clerk will be evaluated by the building administrator in accordance with current District procedures and evaluation criteria. The evaluation will assess the employee’s performance of the duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description.

Note:

This job description is intended to outline the primary areas of responsibility for the position. Specific duties may vary depending on the unique needs of the school site.