Library Assistant I

Apscareerportal; Dothan (AL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

DHCLS in Alabama seeks a library assistant to support routine operations across branches, including shelving, circulation, and user instruction of library technology and services.

The role focuses on friendly customer service, handling fines and fees, and assisting patrons with materials, computers, and programs, with occasional evening and weekend shifts required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of library resources and services.
• Ability to assist patrons with technology and catalog systems.
• Strong reading, writing, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Performs circulation desk procedures (check in/out, holds, fines).
• Assists patrons in locating materials and using library services and computers.
• Performs shelving, shelf-reading, and basic library maintenance.
• Registers and promotes library programs and events.
• Provides excellent customer service and supports staff as needed.

Skills

Customer service

Information literacy

Technology proficiency

Teamwork

Education

High School diploma

Job description

General Statement of Duties

Performs routine general library work related to the direct and/or indirect operation of any DHCLS branch or departmental location, including organization/shelving of library materials, the provision of informational and circulation services, and instruction of users in the use of library technology, materials, and services. Special projects may also be assigned.

Supervision Received

Works under the general written/oral direction and supervision of the DHCLS location manager who issues instructions and checks work performed. Requires the ability to perform tasks with minimal supervision. The exercising of independent judgment and initiative is necessary.

Job Duties

• Performs circulation desk procedures such as checking in and out materials, pulling holds, collecting bookdrop, and managing patron accounts.
• Demonstrates positive customer service skills and assists users with library materials/services either in person, or over the telephone.
• Responsible for executing opening and closing procedures.
• Processing financial transactions such as fines, fees, and services.
• Assists in locating, renewing, reserving library materials/services and instructs in their use.
• Shelving/Shelf-Reading/Straightening of library materials.
• Answers informational and directional questions and recommends library materials/services in a helpful and courteous manner.
• Facilitates public computer use and assists with basic technology support.
• Assists/Instructs in the operation and use of all library media, technology and equipment, including nontraditional library materials.
• Register, assist, plan, and present in the promotion and delivery of DHCLS programs/events for all ages.
• Identifies for Technical Services items to be added, mended, or discarded.
• Creates attractive library displays.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Communication skills, including the ability to read and understand English.
• Ability to learn and master existing and new technologies.
• Ability to assist public in using hardware/software and other technologies.
• Must have critical thinking skills.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions and to complete assigned tasks with minimal direction.
• Requires the ability to work nights and weekends.

Personal Attributes

Courteous; helpful; demonstrates good judgment; neat personal appearance; natural curiosity; values diversity; detail-oriented; creative; problem-solver.

Required Experience and Training

High School graduate (or equivalent) and preferably two (2) years’ experience in a related work environment

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms, stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, grasp, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls, talk and hear. Hand-eye coordination necessary to operate computers and various office equipment. The employee is occasionally required to climb, balance stoop and crouch. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. May require driving to various locations. This job description is not, nor is it intended to be, a complete statement of all duties, functions and responsibilities which comprise this position.