Library Assistant

Library Center of the Ozarks; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 21,000 - 23,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Job summary

Library Center of the Ozarks in Springfield, MO is seeking a part-time Library Clerk to assist patrons with locating items, check-out and returns, and to provide a range of library-related services.

The role includes handling fines via POS, helping patrons with the catalog and computers, and supporting program prep while keeping the library neat and orderly. Evening shifts and occasional duties may be required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Customer service experience is required.
• Experience in handling money preferred.
• Public library experience is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist patrons with locating items, checkout and return of materials.
• Contact patrons to provide notice of missing/damaged materials and collect fines via POS.
• Assist patrons with reference and readers' advisory questions.
• Evaluate item condition on return, check for components, and shelve materials.
• Assist in opening/closing procedures and act as PIC during evening shifts.
• Accept cash, check, and credit card payments for fines and services.
• Follow library guidelines on confidentiality and censorship.
• Perform other duties as assigned during emergencies or shortages.

Skills

Customer service

Library knowledge

Cash handling procedures

Computers

Multi-tasking

Clerical tasks

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Point-of-sale software

Automated circulation system

Job description

Position Overview: Assist patrons with locating items, check-out and return of materials and other library-related services.

Essential Functions:

• Use the library automated system to check materials in/out, process holds and register new borrowers.
• Contact patrons to provide notice of missing or damaged library materials, including collecting fines/fees via point-of-sale software.
• Assist patrons with the use of library equipment, including the copier, faxing machine, online catalog, and public computers.
• Assist patrons with reference and readers' advisory questions.
• Evaluate the condition of items upon return, checking for components, assessing damage, and shelving library materials.
• Assist patrons with locating materials.
• Assist in the preparation and presentation of programs.
• Assist in keeping the library neat and orderly.
• Assist with opening and closing procedures of the library.
• Act as a person-in-charge during evening closing shifts in the absence of full-time staff.
• Accept cash, check, and credit card payments for damaged/lost materials, printing, photocopies, and faxes.
• Must follow all library guidelines as they pertain to censorship and confidentiality.
• All employees may have to take on tasks outside the normal scope of their job in the event of an emergency or staff shortage, e.g., work in the children's department or perform other duties as assigned.

Specific Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• Knowledge of and commitment to excellent customer service principles and practices
• General knowledge of the library's services and collections
• Knowledge of cash handling procedures
• Working knowledge of computers
• Ability to quickly and accurately sort by alphabetical, numerical, chronological, or Dewey Decimal order
• Ability to learn automated circulation systems and library policies and procedures.
• Ability to work with multiple unexpected tasks and patrons simultaneously
• Practice punctuality and consistency when scheduled for a shift
• Ability to perform basic clerical, reference, and general library work
• Ability to follow written and oral instruction
• Ability to work cooperatively and interact with people of various personalities and ages in a variety of situations.

Education/Experience:

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Customer service experience is required.
• Experience in handling money preferred.
• Public library experience is strongly preferred.

Physical and Working Conditions:

• Position requires bending, squatting, kneeling, and reaching from floor level to a height of six feet.
• Routine lifting and handling of library materials weighing up to 30 pounds and moving book carts up to 200 pounds
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time
• Ability to perform work at a computer terminal for extended periods

Schedule: Part-time employees work a maximum of twenty (20) hours per week, days, evenings and weekends as needed. Schedules may vary from week to week.

Pay Range: $15.45 with paid time off for vacation, sickness, and holidays.

First consideration is Sept. 10, 2026; otherwise, the position will be open until filled.