Part-time Library Assistant, Lewis Street Branch, Franklin Township Public Library

LibraryLinkNJ Technology Advisory Group; Franklin Township (NJ); On-site; USD 20,664 - 26,174; Part time

Job summary

Franklin Township Public Library is seeking an energetic, customer-service oriented individual for the Lewis Street Branch information desk. The role involves assisting patrons, guiding them through the Polaris ILS and OPAC, and handling circulation tasks.

The position supports opening/closing procedures, shelving, program prep, and outreach activities. It requires flexibility to work weekend shifts and a strong commitment to a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in public service and assisting library patrons.
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple queries.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Flexibility to work mornings, evenings, or weekends.
• Capable of lifting and shelving as needed.

Responsibilities

• Assisting patrons with inquiries, locating materials, and navigating Polaris ILS system and OPAC.
• Performing circulation tasks: check-in, check-out, renewals, card issuance, account updates.
• Preparing materials for holds and transfers between libraries.
• Managing holds and interlibrary loan requests.
• Resolving basic account issues and handling fines/fees.
• Providing basic computer assistance for patrons.

Skills

Customer service

Multitasking

Effective communication

Teamwork

Dependability

Flexibility

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

College degree preferred

Tools

Polaris ILS system

Canva

MS Word

Job description

Part-time Library Assistant, Lewis Street Branch, Franklin Township Public Library

Franklin Township Public Library is seeking an energetic and customer-service oriented individual to join our Lewis Street Branch staff at the information desk.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assisting patrons with inquiries, locating materials, and navigating the ILS catalog (Polaris) and OPAC.
• Performing circulation tasks, including item check-in, check-out, renewals, issuing cards, updating accounts.
• Preparing library materials for holds and transfers to other libraries.
• Managing patron holds and interlibrary loan materials requests.
• Resolving basic account issues and making change (fines, fees).
• Providing basic troubleshooting for patron-use library computers and the staff computer.
• Shelving, shelf-reading, shifting, and organizing materials to maintain an orderly collection.
• Participating in opening/closing procedures; including responsibility for opening the building and working a shift solo in the branch.
• Assisting with program prep and set up, as needed.
• Promoting library services and programs from the information desk or at an outreach event in the Youth Center.
• Answering the telephone in a professional and courteous manner and performing general reception duties.
• Enforcing library rules of conduct and policies with patrons while maintaining a welcoming environment that is friendly, warm, and inclusive of all.
• Working independently, as well as part of a team.
• Welcoming and accepting input, seeking advice on how to handle situations, and supporting team members by keeping them informed and offering help.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Some computer literacy with the ability to learn new software systems such as Polaris ILS system, Canva and MS Word.
• Ability to exercise good judgement in public service situations and multitask as needed.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including regular nights and weekends.
• Ability to maintain punctuality, reliability, trustworthiness, and excellent attendance.
• Possession of effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, (sometimes alone in the library), as well as part of a team.
• Experience with a variety of age groups and diverse populations.
• Ability to communicate effectively with the public and staff members to foster a supportive and respectful workplace.
• Ability to approach challenging situations with a caring demeanor toward patrons and colleagues.
• Ability to lift book piles up to 25 lbs; push library carts up to 40 pounds; bend down close to ground to shelve; reach up to the top shelves, including use of a stepstool, if necessary: and move library materials as needed.
• Dexterity to handle books, keyboards and other small objects.
• Ability to repetitively bend and lift books for shelving.
• College degree preferred, High school diploma or equivalent accepted with previous experience in customer service.

Approximately 16-20 hours a week, with scheduled weekend hours.

This position is part-time and could include morning, afternoon, and/or evening shifts. There is a possibility of filling in more hours as coverage is needed.