Library Assistant

Trimble County Public Library; Bedford (KY); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

Trimble County Public Library in Bedford, KY is seeking a Library Assistant to deliver high-quality customer service while supporting daily circulation, collection maintenance, and patron assistance in a welcoming environment.

This part-time role requires flexibility for day, evening, and weekend shifts, basic computer and catalog use, and the ability to lift up to 30 pounds. Prior library or public service experience is preferred but not required, with background checks as part of employment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience in customer service or public service is a plus.
• Familiarity with library tools and catalog systems is helpful.

Responsibilities

• Provide friendly, respectful, and responsive customer service in accordance with Library values and standards.
• Assist customers with the online catalog (OPAC), Internet resources, databases, and other library technologies.
• Carry out opening and closing procedures and support circulation functions (checkouts, holds, registrations, fines).
• Sort, organize, shelve, and shelf-read library materials.
• Assist with library programs and outreach activities as assigned.

Skills

Customer service

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Cash handling

Tech literacy

Library software

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Integrated library system

OPAC / catalog

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position Overview

At Trimble County Public Library, we connect our community with knowledge and experiences that inspire creativity and discovery. Our vision is to enrich lives, build community, and prepare for an ever-changing future.

The Library Assistant provides high-quality customer service to a diverse public while supporting the daily operations of the library. This position performs circulation, collection maintenance, customer assistance, and other library functions while helping ensure a welcoming, organized, and efficient environment.

Immediate Supervisor

Library Director

Positions Supervised

None

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide friendly, respectful, and responsive customer service in accordance with Library values and standards.
• Interpret the Library's mission, policies, procedures, and services in a customer-focused manner.
• Carry out opening and closing procedures.
• Sort, organize, shelve, and shelf-read library materials, including books, periodicals, and audiovisual materials.
• Assist customers with directional questions and the use of library equipment, including public computers, copier, printer, fax machine, scanner, and other technology.
• Assist customers with the online catalog (OPAC), Internet resources, electronic databases, digital collections, and other library technologies.
• Perform circulation functions using the integrated library system, including:
  • Checking materials in and out
  • Registering new library cardholders
  • Processing holds and reserves
  • Collecting fines and fees
  • Responding to patron account inquiries
• Provide basic reference and readers' advisory assistance in person, by telephone, and through electronic communication.
• Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, safe, and welcoming library environment.
• Assist with library displays, exhibits, and merchandising of collections.
• Assist with library programs and outreach activities, including room setup, technology support, and off-site events as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Secondary Responsibilities

May assist with:

• Processing and preparing new library materials for circulation.
• Physical processing, repair, and maintenance of library materials.
• Retrieval of overdue materials and responding to patron questions regarding overdue accounts.
• Collection shifting and inventory projects.
• Technology setup for library programs and events.
• Other operational projects that support Library services.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of or ability to learn library services, collections, and policies.
• Ability to use the library's integrated library system, online catalog, and standard office software.
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to remain professional and composed while resolving customer concerns.
• Ability to work cooperatively with coworkers, volunteers, and the public.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to organize materials accurately using alphabetical, numerical, chronological, and Dewey Decimal order.
• Ability to perform basic copy cataloging and collection maintenance tasks after training.
• Ability to accurately handle cash transactions and operate a cash register.
• Ability to operate office equipment including computers, printers, copiers, scanners, fax machines, and telephones.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and technology.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and provide courteous service to all patrons.
• Dependability, initiative, and the ability to work independently.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.

Physical Demands

This position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, lifting, and repetitive motion throughout the workday. Employees must be able to:

• Stand for extended periods.
• Read call numbers, titles, labels, and computer screens.
• Reach above shoulder height and below the waist to retrieve or shelve materials.
• Lift, carry, push, or pull up to 30 pounds.
• Push and pull fully loaded book carts weighing 50-100 pounds using proper lifting techniques.
• Perform repetitive tasks with speed and accuracy.
• Work for extended periods using a computer.

Education, Training, and Experience

• High school diploma or GED preferred; applicants currently working toward a diploma may be considered.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Previous customer service, library, or public service experience preferred.

Employment Requirements

• Successful completion of a background check.
• Successful completion of a drug screening.

Status

Part-time position, generally scheduled for approximately 20 hours per week (less than 100 hours per month). Regular daytime, evening, and weekend shifts are required based on library operational needs.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Employees may be assigned additional responsibilities as needed to meet the needs of the Library.