Library Assistant I - Multiple Departments (2026-10-21)

US Lawns; Pittsfield (MA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Direct Deposit

Free Permitted Parking

Holiday Pay

Vacation / Sick Time (Generic Leave)

Employee Assistance Program

Tuition Reimbursement Program

Foreign Language Incentive Pay

Opportunities for Professional Dev elp

Berkshire Athenaeum Employees Assoc. C

Job summary

Berkshire Athenaeum in Pittsfield, MA, is seeking part-time Library Assistant I to perform routine library duties in public service areas, primarily shelving, pulling holds lists, and desk coverage. Intermittent hours are possible in Adult and/or Youth Services, with cross-training opportunities.

Responsibilities include shelving, handling patron inquiries, database tasks, and prep of overdue notices. Strong communication in English and the ability to move light loads are required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent or within one year of graduation.
• Ability to use computers or aptitude to be trained in this area.
• Demonstrated patience and skill in dealing with the general public.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
• Ability to speak with customers or employees of the organization.
• Ability to communicate fluently in English.
• Ability to move light loads (about 20 pounds) from the floor to a position overhead.

Responsibilities

• Shelving materials and keeping shelves neat and in order.
• Perform tasks assigned by supervisor, including projects.
• Answer the telephone, transfer calls, and take messages.
• Use CW MARS database for patron information and transactions.
• Mend damaged materials and handle repairs or external repairs.
• Provide public service desk coverage as needed.
• Perform clerical duties including typing, filing, and shelving.
• Use department equipment and resources as required.
• Prepare overdue notices for mailing.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Skills

Computer skills

Patience

Public interaction

Reading comprehension

Written reports

Verbal communication

English fluency

Lifting light loads

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Description

Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield's Public Library, is seeking to fill part-time positions of Library Assistant I. The Library Assistant performs routine library duties in a public service area of the library, primarily shelving, pulling holds lists, and providing back-up desk coverage.

This position involves intermittent hours working in the Adult and/or Youth Services Department with the possibility of cross-training.

The current staffing needs are:

Adult Circulation: Mondays, 8:45am-12:45pm

Youth Services: Tuesdays, 10am-1pm; Thursdays, 10am-1pm; Saturdays, 11am-3pm.

Responsibilities

• Shelving of all materials and other associated tasks, such as keeping shelves neat, keeping books in proper order
• Performs specific tasks assigned by the supervisor, including one time and ongoing projects
• Answers the telephone, transfers calls, and takes messages
• Performs computer tasks to maintain and/or manipulate the CW MARS database (searching CW MARS database, entering patron information, charging/discharging transactions)
• Mends damaged library materials, including in house repairs and sending materials out to a commercial binder
• Provides public service desk coverage as assigned
• Performs clerical duties, including typing and computer word processing, filing, and shelving
• Uses the department's audio-visual, office, and/or computer equipment and resources
• Prepares overdue notices for mailing
• Performs other duties and special projects as assigned

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent or within one year of graduation
• Computer skills or demonstrated ability/aptitude to be trained in this area
• Demonstrated patience and skill in dealing with general public
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as: safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence
• Ability to speak with customers or employees of the organization
• Ability to communicate fluently in English
• Ability to move light loads (about 20 pounds) from the floor to a position overhead

Company Description

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, the City of Pittsfield is a vibrant and welcoming community that blends rich history with a forward-thinking outlook. As the cultural and economic hub of the region, Pittsfield offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. Our city government is committed to fostering a high quality of life for all residents by delivering essential services, promoting sustainable growth, and championing a diverse and inclusive community.

Working for the City of Pittsfield means being part of a team dedicated to public service and making a real difference in the lives of our citizens. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. Whether it's enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, or supporting our vibrant arts scene, every role within our organization plays a vital part in shaping the future of our city.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Join us in our mission to build a stronger, more connected Pittsfield, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Benefits

• Direct Deposit
• Free Permitted Parking
• Holiday Pay
• Vacation / Sick Time (Generic Leave)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Foreign Language Incentive Pay
• Opportunities for Professional Development
• Berkshire Athenaeum Employees Association Collective Bargaining unit

Deadline

Deadline for priority consideration: November 11, 2026