Adult Services Associate I

Zion-Benton Public Library; Zion (IL); On-site; USD 15,624 - 22,996; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Pro-rated personal time

Part-time benefits

Job summary

Zion-Benton Public Library invites applications for a part-time Adult Services position focused on reference and reader’s advisory duties. The role emphasizes assisting adults with information resources, digital tools, and technology questions at the Adult Services desk.

The ideal candidate will engage patrons, provide individualized tech instruction, and support programming and outreach while delivering excellent customer service.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or combination of education and experience.
• Ability and desire to work with people of all ages and skill levels.
• Knowledge of or ability to learn computers, networks, online information tools and applications, including Internet searching.
• Knowledge of library automation including online catalogs and databases.
• Ability to speak, read, and write Spanish desired.

Responsibilities

• Staff the Adult Services reference desk and provide outstanding customer service.
• Provide reference and readers’ advisory assistance in person, by telephone, and electronically.
• Assist patrons in locating and using print, digital, and online library resources.
• Provide individualized technology instruction for patrons using computers, mobile devices, tablets, e-readers, printers, library databases, downloadable media, email, and common software applications.
• Teach occasional technology classes and workshops that support digital literacy and lifelong learning.

Skills

Customer service

Teaching technology

Spanish language

Communication

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

Library automation systems

Digital resources platforms

Job description

Reports to: Adult Services Coordinator

Schedule: 16 hours per week; Schedule is flexible, but requires weekday evenings, every other Saturday, and put on a Sunday rotation.

Wage: The salary range for this position is $15,624.96 to $22,996.48 annually or ($18.78 to $27.64 per hour), depending on qualifications and in accordance with internal equity.

Jobs Supervised: None – may train and oversee department volunteers; may assist in supervising support functions for shift

Job Summary: Provides welcoming and knowledgeable reference and reader’s advisory service to adult patrons, with a primary focus on staffing the Adult Services reference desk. This position assists patrons with information needs, library resources, digital services, and technology questions through individualized instruction and occasional group classes. The position also supports Adult Services programming, collection maintenance, outreach activities, and department initiatives while maintaining a high standard of customer service.

Nature and Scope of Position

We are seeking a personable, service-oriented individual who enjoys helping adults navigate information resources and technology. Will serve as a primary staff member at the Adult Services reference desk, providing reference assistance, readers’ advisory, technology instruction, and access to library resources in person, by telephone, and through electronic communication.

This position places a strong emphasis on helping patrons build confidence with technology through one-on-one appointments, walk‑up assistance, and occasional classes covering digital literacy, devices, software, and online services. Will also assist with Adult Services programming, collection maintenance, displays, and community outreach as assigned.

Ability to communicate in Spanish is highly desired.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Staff the Adult Services reference desk and provide outstanding customer service.
• Provide reference and readers’ advisory assistance in person, by telephone, and electronically.
• Assist patrons in locating and using print, digital, and online library resources.
• Provide individualized technology instruction for patrons using computers, mobile devices, tablets, e-readers, printers, library databases, downloadable media, email, and common software applications.
• Conduct scheduled one‑on‑one technology appointments.
• Teach occasional technology classes and workshops that support digital literacy and lifelong learning.
• Troubleshoot basic technology issues related to library equipment and digital services.
• Assist with Adult Services programming and special events.
• May be responsible for assigned portions of the adult collection.
• Assist with displays, promotional materials, and merchandising.
• Facilitate program registration and meeting room usage.
• Keep informed about library programs and services.
• May serve as Person-in-Charge as assigned.
• Attend staff, department, and professional meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Contacts: Patrons, volunteers, other department personnel, and peers at other organizations

Working Conditions: Normal office conditions

Physical Demands

• Requires full range of motion, including standing, sitting, or walking for extended periods
• Requires bending, stooping, and reaching to retrieve library materials
• Must be able to move a two‑sided book cart loaded with books and other library materials
• Must have dexterity and eye‑hand coordination to move materials or operate automated equipment
• Must be able to lift boxes of books, paper, or other items

Education, Experience, and Skills Required for Entry into the Job

• Bachelor’s Degree or combination of education and experience
• Ability and desire to work with people of all ages and skill levels
• Ability to represent the library at professional and community events
• Knowledge of or ability to learn computers, networks, online information tools and applications, including Internet searching
• Knowledge of library automation including online catalogs and databases
• Knowledge of or ability to learn collection development practices
• Ability to speak, read, and write Spanish desired
• Demonstrated ability to teach technology to adults with varying levels of digital literacy.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to explain technical concepts in clear, patient, and accessible language.
• Comfort learning new technologies and digital resources as library services evolve.
• Ability to multitask while providing high‑quality public service in a busy reference environment.

Special Requirements

• Access to reliable transportation to work at the library and offsite as needed
• Schedule will include evenings and weekends

General Requirements for all library employees

• Commitment to providing uniformly gracious and friendly service to all people
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships
• Commitment to the library’s mission and goals
• Ability to read, write, and speak English
• Ability to give and receive instructions in English
• Alpha‑numeric recognition skill
• Ability to exercise good judgment
• Ability to use basic office equipment: telephone, fax, email
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to contribute to a team
• Honest, punctual, accurate, able to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to pass a criminal background check

This is a part‑time position with limited benefits, including pro‑rated personal time. Schedule is flexible but requires some evenings, every other Saturday, and put on a Sunday rotation. The salary range for this position is $15,624.96 to $22,996.48 annually or ($18.78 to $27.64 per hour), depending on qualifications and in accordance with internal equity.

Zion‑Benton Public Library District is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.