Branch Library Assistant: Circulation & Patron Support

Kent-District-Library; East Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 17,909,000 - 24,797,000; Full time

Job summary

Kent District Library is seeking a diligent Circulation Assistant to support patron services at a branch location. You will handle check-in/out, fines, new card issuance, and patron record updates while assisting patrons with materials and digital resources.

You will shelve, process holds, and assist with inter-library loans, using the ILS and digital databases. The role includes basic clerical tasks and potential team leadership responsibilities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous work experience in a library or retail setting preferred.
• Basic clerical skills including computer and telephone skills.
• Knowledge of popular culture and various genres of material in the library collection.
• Basic mathematical skills for routine calculations.
• Working knowledge of KDL policies and procedures.
• Ability to work with general supervision and adhere to established policies.
• Interpersonal and communication skills for interaction with staff and customers; bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
• Leadership and guidance abilities for less experienced circulation staff.
• Visual acuity to retrieve materials from shelves or storage.
• Physical ability to push/pull loaded book carts and lift/carry materials up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to operate equipment including computer, cash register, fax, and copier.

Responsibilities

• Check in/out library materials and collect money for fines or replacement cards.
• Issue and replace library cards; register patrons and process name/address changes.
• Maintain and shelve materials; handle book drops and shelf reading.
• Ensure proper handling of customer and material records in the library system.
• Process inter-library loans and routing of items; contact patrons or libraries as needed.
• Provide reference and information services to patrons and assist with searches using ILS and databases.
• Demonstrate and assist with eReader devices and apps to access digital collections.
• Provide directions and escalate advanced requests to Branch Librarians.
• Balance monies collected at point of sale; forward funds to Finance.
• Assist with routine maintenance of library equipment and general clerical tasks.
• Train and guide less experienced staff; may serve as team lead.

Skills

Customer service

Interpersonal communication

Bilingual English/Spanish

Basic clerical skills

Data entry

Cash handling

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

ILS

Online databases

Job description

Kent District Library is seeking a diligent Circulation Assistant to support patron services at a branch location. You will handle check-in/out, fines, new card issuance, and patron record updates while assisting patrons with materials and digital resources.

You will shelve, process holds, and assist with inter-library loans, using the ILS and digital databases. The role includes basic clerical tasks and potential team leadership responsibilities.