Part Time Library Assistant

Cecilcountylibrary; North East (MD); On-site; USD 18,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Cecil County Public Library is seeking a Library Assistant to support fast-paced circulation operations with a friendly, customer-focused approach. You will check out materials, issue library cards, collect fines, and assist with meetings and room reservations across branches.

Responsibilities include handling inquiries, shelving, and operating printing/scanning equipment while promoting library programs. A high school diploma and strong PC skills are required.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited high school or G.E.D.
• Strong verbal communication skills and customer service orientation.
• Good knowledge of personal computers and Windows OS.
• Willingness to learn advanced library applications and systems.
• Ability to follow directions, stay organized, and pay attention to detail.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusive environment.
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs and push/pull book carts weighing up to 245 lbs.
• Willingness to travel between branches if necessary.

Responsibilities

• Operate circulation database to check out, place holds, and discharge materials.
• Register patrons for new library cards and update records.
• Process fines and fees, greet patrons, and promote library services.
• Respond to questions by phone and in person; assist with photocopying, printing, and self-check.
• Assist with meeting room reservations and interact with external organizations.
• Sort deliveries, shelve materials, and maintain shelves in order.
• Contribute to meeting room access and provide basic organizer support.
• Promote a positive library image and participate in staff morale activities.
• Report facility problems and support system-wide committees as needed.

Skills

Customer service

Verbal communication

PC knowledge

Windows OS

Willingness to learn

Attention to detail

Diversity & inclusion

Lifting up to 35 lbs

Travel between branches

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

RFID pad

Cash register

Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY:Under the direct supervision of the Customer Service/Circulation Supervisor, the Library Assistant performs a variety of library circulation operations in a fast-paced, team-oriented work environment. Provides caring, non-judgmental customer service to all.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:Utilizes the library’s circulation database to search for, check out, place holds, and discharge materials for library patrons.Registers patrons for new library cards.Accurately enters data and updates patron records.Calculates and receives fines and fees.Proactively greets and welcomes patrons to the library.Carries out and explains circulation policies and procedures to customers. Resolves problems and concerns in a positive manner which promotes and reflects exceptional customer service practices.Actively promotes library services and programs to the community.Recommends and reviews books and other library materials through various media outlets, including the CCPL website.Responds to patron questions by phone and in person.Empties book drops.Processes and sorts incoming and outgoing deliveries.Shelves materials and keeps shelves in order.Responsible for interacting with outside organizations throughout the meeting room reservation process. Ensures prompt access to the meeting room and provides basic assistance to the organizer.Assists customers with photocopying, printing, and self-check machines.Presents and promotes a positive image of library and staff.Contributes to staff morale by projecting a positive attitude.Maintains facility and reports problems to appropriate staff.May participate in system-wide committees.Responsible for additional circulation processes.Performs other job-related tasks as needed.JOB STANDARDS:Promotes and maintains a high standard of excellent customer service, both internal and external.Demonstrates ability to work with diverse populations.Models positive attitude towards library technology and change.Maintains courteous, friendly, and constructive relationships with all patrons and staff.Promotes and advocates a positive library image in the community.Maintains professional growth and awareness through training, self-directed learning and other means to stay abreast of current and emerging trends in the community and in libraries.Performs job in keeping with the policies and procedures of the Cecil County Public Library.CRITICAL SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:Graduation from an accredited high school or G.E.D.Strong verbal communications skills.Strong customer service skills and the ability to effectively and creatively solve problems.Good knowledge of personal computers and printing.Good knowledge of Windows operating system.Willingness and ability to learn advanced library computer applications.Ability to follow directions, remain organized, and pay attention to detail.Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.Ability to reach, bend, and lift up to 35 lbs.Ability to push/pull depressible book truck weighing up to 245 lbs full and move books individually from book trucks to shelves.Ability to travel between branches, if necessary.EQUIPMENT:Computer, scanner, printers, photocopier, fax, book carts, cash register, RFID pad.WORKING CONDITIONS:Works in normal heat and light conditions with some exposure to seasonal draft conditions. Some eye fatigue from working at computer terminals; physical fatigue from working at counter height (33-39”) work surface and from repetitive lifting of books and pushing carts. Some stress from constant public contact.FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT STATUS: Non-ExemptSCHEDULE: Part-Time, 25 hours per week. Regular schedule requires day, evening, and weekend hours.NOTE: Certain conditions, e.g. economic constraints, staffing patterns, may necessitate change in job description.EOE Revised 11/2021