Library Assistant II - (Part Time) - Circulation Department

City of Pittsfield; Pittsfield (MA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Direct Deposit

Free Parking

Holiday Pay

Vacation / Sick Time (Generic Leave)

Employee Assistance Program

Tuition Reimbursement Program

Foreign Language Incentive Pay

Opportunities for Professional Dev

Job summary

Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield's Public Library, is seeking a part-time Library Assistant II to support Circulation desk operations on Saturdays 1-5pm and occasionally cover other shifts.

The role emphasizes public service, basic catalog and circulation tasks, and helping users navigate library resources. Applicants should have a high school diploma and basic computer skills; previous library experience is a plus.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; some college or related coursework preferred.
• Basic computer skills and internet searching ability.
• Familiarity with the library catalog and circulation functions.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Patience and effective communication with children and the public.

Responsibilities

• Provide desk coverage and assist library users with reference questions of low to moderate complexity.
• Prepare overdue and lost lists for mailing.
• Assist with program planning and execution.
• Instruct in using computer reservation, printing, and scanning systems.
• Assist in searching the online catalog and placing holds.
• Circulate library technology items.
• Perform other special projects as assigned.

Skills

Public service

Problem solving

Patience

Basic computer skills

Catalog searching

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Library catalog systems

Reservation/printing systems

Job description

Job Description

Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield's Public Library, is seeking to fill the part-time position of Library Assistant II to provide assistance and service at the Circulation desk. The current expected schedule is four hours per week (Saturdays, 1-5pm), but may include substitute coverage for other shifts, including being cross-trained to perform grade appropriate tasks in other library departments.

Response deadline: Wednesday, November 11, 2026

Responsibilities

• Provides public desk coverage as applicable, including assisting library users in answering reference questions of lower to moderate complexity, assisting patrons locating and using department materials and equipment, and maintaining public discipline and decorum.
• Prepares overdue and lost lists for mailing.
• Assists with program planning and execution.
• Assists and instructs in use of the public computer reservation system, the public computer printing system and the scanning service.
• Assists and instructs in searching the library online catalog and placing holds.
• Assists and instructs in accessing the library wifi service.
• Circulates library technology items.
• Performs other special projects as assigned, both one-time and ongoing.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma is required, with some college or technical school course work desired; or one year of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Computer skills including use of mouse and touchpad; facility with basic internet searching; familiarity with steps involved in simple computer use, including logging in, saving, printing.
• Familiarity with the library’s online catalog and basic circulation functions or aptitude for being trained in its use.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated patience and skill in dealing with children and the general public.

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 ongoing 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