Library Assistant - Children's Department

LibraryLinkNJ Technology Advisory Group; Cranford (NJ); On-site; USD 17,604 - 25,073; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off package

Job summary

The Cranford Public Library is seeking a part-time Library Assistant for the Children's Department. This role involves working primarily with children in a newly expanded Children’s Room and assisting with library services.

The position averages 12 hours per week including afternoons, evenings, and weekends. Preferred candidates will have library experience and some marketing knowledge. A high school diploma is required; some college is a plus.

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience in a public library environment preferred.
• Ability to assist with events for children and families.
• Must maintain consistent, regular attendance.

Responsibilities

• Greet patrons at the Children’s Desk.
• Assist patrons with library app use and material searches.
• Answer basic questions and refer inquiries to appropriate departments.

Skills

Familiarity with books and audio-visual materials

Ability to organize library materials

Teamwork skills

Ability to communicate in English

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Some college preferred

Job description

Library Assistant - Children's Department

Job Posting – Library Assistant –Children’s Department

The Cranford Public Library is looking for someone who enjoys working with children to join our team in our brand-new expanded Children’s Room. Any interest or experience with marketing is a plus. We are accepting applications for a part-time Library. Under general supervision of the Head of Children’s Services, the Library Assistant provides a variety of library services to patrons of all ages.

The work week averages 12 hours, including daytime, evening and weekend hours. We are currently seeking someone able to work afternoons—in particular 1‑5 pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday—as well as Wednesday evenings and multiple weekends per month (Saturdays 9‑5 or Sundays 11:30‑4 in a given week). The successful candidate should also have some availability to cover additional shifts due to call‑outs or vacation leave.

The library is located in Union County and is a member of STELLA (Sharing & Technology Enhancing Local Library Access), Libraries of Union County Consortium and MURAL (Middlesex Union Reciprocal Agreement Libraries).

Responsibilities and Duties

• Greet patrons at the Children’s Desk.
• Answer the phone and refer calls to the appropriate extension.
• Assist patrons with library app use and material searches.
• Place requests for materials.
• Answer basic questions and refer inquiries to appropriate departments.
• Check shelves for items.
• Shelve materials, tidy shelves, and put materials in correct call number and alphabetical order.
• Rearrange and move collections as requested to make room for new materials.
• Assist with acquisition and maintenance of the collections.
• Assist with events for children and families.
• Perform additional related tasks as requested by the supervisor or administrative staff.

Requirements

Experience

At least one year of experience working in a public library environment, including circulation and customer service responsibilities, preferred.

Education

A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Some college preferred.

Skills

Familiarity with books and audio‑visual materials.

Ability to participate in consultative or in‑service training programs.

Ability to organize library materials in alphabetical order, and by the library’s classification system (Dewey Decimal).

Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with coworkers, to demonstrate teamwork skills and work both independently and as part of a larger group.

Ability to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

Persons with disabilities are eligible as long as they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the individual requests a reasonable accommodation, but none can be granted without imposing an undue hardship on the Library, such persons may be deemed not qualified for the position.

Must maintain consistent, regular attendance. Employees must comply with the “New Jersey First Act”.

To Apply

The starting hourly wage is $15.49. This is a part‑time position which includes a generous paid time off package.

Please send a resume, cover letter, and three references to Kathy Cannarozzi, Library Director, at [e-mail] with “Library Assistant” in the subject line. This position will remain open until filled. The Cranford Public Library is an ADA compliant/EOE employer.

“Good Faith” Salary, Range, or Rate of Pay