Under general supervision of the Senior Librarian, the Library Assistant provides essential frontline support to the library by delivering high-quality customer service, supporting daily circulation operations, and assisting patrons of all ages in accessing library resources, programs, and technology. This role requires a strong commitment to teamwork, adaptability, and continuous improvement to meet the evolving needs of the community and ensure efficient, accurate, and friendly library operations.
The ideal candidate will embody the City’s core values of Service, Humility, Innovation, Neighborly, and Excellence (SHINE).
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Patron Services and Circulation
- Greets library patrons and provides courteous, neighborly service at the circulation desk. Checks library materials in and out; processes fine payments and maintains the cash drawer; issues library cards and explains library policies and procedures to new patrons. Assists patrons with locating library materials using the catalog, electronic databases, online resources, and print sources; conducts basic library and internet research and provides referrals to outside resources as appropriate. Provides reader’s advisory services and assists patrons with public computers, printing, and Microsoft Office applications.
Customer Service and Community Engagement
- Delivers exceptional customer service to both internal and external customers in alignment with the City’s SHINE values. Assists with library programs, activities, and special events for children, teens, and adults. Supports outreach and engagement efforts by assisting with displays, promotional materials, and marketing of library services and programs.
Cash Handling and Recordkeeping
- Prepares and submits regular cash reports to the Finance Department. Maintains accurate library files, records, and circulation documentation in accordance with City policies and procedures.
Materials Handling and Shelving
- Empties book drops; returns items to circulation using the library’s computerized system; and shelves books, DVDs, and other materials in proper order. Maintains orderly shelving by straightening, shifting, and reorganizing materials as needed.
Technical Processing and Collection Maintenance
- Receives and processes new books and library materials by labeling, stamping, covering, barcoding, and verifying items against packing slips and invoices. Maintains related files and documentation. Repairs, cleans, and evaluates the condition of library materials; removes damaged items from circulation and reprocesses selected materials as appropriate.
Interlibrary Loan Support
- Orders and processes interlibrary loan materials and notifies patrons when requested items are received.
Opening and Closing Duties
- Assists with opening and closing the library, including logging computers on and off the system, compiling reports, reconciling cash, and unlocking and locking library doors.
Other Duties
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Library and Municipal Knowledge
- Knowledge of library policies, practices, procedures, and classification systems. Knowledge of City policies and procedures applicable to library operations.
Communication and Customer Service
- Ability to communicate effectively and professionally, both orally and in writing. Ability to provide courteous, responsive, and inclusive customer service to a diverse population.
Technology and Systems
- Skill in the use of personal computers, automated library systems, and standard office software. Ability to assist patrons with basic technology and computer applications.
High School Diploma or GED and one to three years of clerical or library employment experience.
An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provide the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
Ability to work a varied schedule as needed, including evenings and weekends.