Library Assistant (part-time): Starts in January 2027

City of South Milwaukee; South Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Part time

Job summary

City of South Milwaukee Library is seeking a Library Assistant to provide support at the main desk and youth service desk, handling circulation tasks and patron inquiries.

The role requires strong customer service skills, the ability to multi-task, and reliable attendance. Schedule includes Tue 3-7pm, Thu 10am-2pm, Fri 8:30am-12:30pm, plus rotating Saturdays; occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One year of customer service experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computers.
• Ability to effectively communicate, orally and in writing.
• Cash handling experience.

Responsibilities

• Checks in and out library materials, verifying content and ensuring materials are in acceptable condition.
• Prepares, updates, and maintains patron cards and account information.
• Answers directional and informational questions at the main desk and youth service desk.
• Receives and processes daily delivery and paged items.
• Collects and records payment of fines and other cash services.
• Assists patrons in using library equipment.
• Maintains the integrated library system.
• Processes new library materials.
• Reconciles invoices against orders.
• Repairs damaged materials.
• Manages library serials collection.
• Generates circulation reports and reconciliation actions.
• Attends staff meetings when required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Attention to detail

Cash handling

Microsoft Office

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Email

Internet

Cash register

Job description

SUMMARY

This position provides support staff services for the library by assisting patrons at the main desk and youth service desk. A variety of clerical functions are also assigned. The position requires strong customer service skills and the ability to multi-task, prioritize, and manage time effectively. The Library Assistant works under the supervision of the Library Director.

SHIFT/HOURS

Tuesday 3pm-7pm

Thursday 10am-2pm

Friday 8:30am-12:30pm

Rotating Saturdays: Every fourth Saturday 10am-4pm. When working Saturday, off Thursday & Tuesday shift becomes 5-7.

Work schedule is subject to the operational needs of the library and may include nights and weekends.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Checks in and out library materials, verifying content and ensuring that materials are in acceptable condition.
• Prepares, updates, and maintains patron cards and account information.
• Answers directional and informational questions in person or over the telephone at the main desk and youth service desk.
• Refers reference inquiries to the appropriate staff person.
• Receives and processes the daily delivery and paged items.
• Collects and records payment of fines and other cash services.
• Assists patrons in the use of library equipment.
• Participates in the maintenance and accuracy of the integrated library system.
• Processes new library materials.
• Reconciles invoices against received orders for accuracy and condition.
• Repairs damaged library materials.
• Receives, processes and maintains the library serial collection.
• Responsible for assigned circulation reports and actions needed for reconciliation of those reports.
• Participates in staff meetings when required.
• Performs other duties, as assigned.
• Maintains prompt, predictable, and regular physical attendance.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One year of customer service experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computers.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to effectively communicate, orally and in writing.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the public.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to perform tasks with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to provide truthful and accurate written and verbal communications.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of library patron information.
• Ability to deal with the public with tact and discretion.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations with speed and accuracy.
• Computer skills including proficiency with Microsoft Office software, email, and Internet.
• Cash handling experience.
• Understanding of basic library principles, procedures, technology, goals and philosophy of service.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Networked personal computer, related software and peripherals; integrated library system; mobile devices, calculator; cash register; multi-line telephone; copy machine; fax machine; new technology as introduced and/or adopted.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, bend, lift, twist, talk, and hear (normal range in office environment, corrected or uncorrected); use hands to finger, handle, grasp; reach with hands and arms; lift and carry up to 50 pounds; and push or pull up to 200 pounds. The employee must occasionally sit, crouch and crawl, kneel, and climb.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions and responsibilities.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Inside work environment.

Frequently dusty work conditions.

Exposure to environmental factors:

Repetitive motions of using computer keyboard and picking up and setting down books.

Noise level is moderately quiet.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

Formal application, rating of education and experience, oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required. All applicants may be required to submit to medical examination and background check of local, state, or federal authorities prior to appointment, consistent with the requirements of the position. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

RESIDENCY

The residency requirement for all non-emergency city employees shall be as permitted by Wis. Stat. Sec. 66.0502

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Rate of pay is outlined in the annual salary ordinance.

The City of South Milwaukee is an equal opportunity employer.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the city provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Minority applicants and military veterans are encouraged to apply.

DISCLAIMER

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. This is an "at will" position, and no language found in this posting should be interpreted in any way to create an employment contract of any type.