Patron Services Assistant

Chatham; Chatham (IL); Hybrid; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Chatham Public Library is seeking an Adult Services Supervisor to lead patron-facing services in the library. The role requires evening and weekend shifts, with duties spanning customer service, programming, and outreach.

The position emphasizes friendly, accessible service, collaboration across departments, and ongoing professional development in a public-library setting.

Qualifications

• Demonstrates strong customer service and communication skills.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities with independent judgment.
• Detail-oriented and highly organized; comfortable with technology.

Responsibilities

• Greet and assist patrons in person, by phone, and by email.
• Recommend books and create curated resources for patrons.
• Organize programs, outreach, and projects to enhance service quality.
• Promote library programs, services, and digital resources.
• Schedule meeting rooms and provide general information to inquiries.
• Explain library policies clearly to the public.
• Assist with circulation tasks and maintain patron records.
• Provide technical assistance with computers and library software.

Skills

Customer service

Verbal & written communication

Problem-solving

Detail-oriented

Technology proficiency

Research assistance

Collaboration

Professional development

Education

High school diploma or GED

College coursework or training preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Adobe Professional

Job description

Title of Supervisor: Adult Services Supervisor

Hours

This short-hour position includes evenings and weekend shifts as needed.

Tuesday: 4:30p-8:15p

Wednesday: 11:45a-8:15p - Every other week; 12:15p-8:15p - every other week

Every other Saturday 8:45a-4:15p

Position Summary

The Patron Services Assistant position is essential to providing a friendly, responsive library environment. This role supports public-facing departments by helping patrons access materials, programs, and technology while keeping public spaces and collections neat, accessible, and welcoming. Key qualities include excellent communication and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, comfort with technology, a dedication to public service with flexibility and the capacity to exercise sound, independent judgment.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

Deliver friendly, inclusive customer service by greeting and assisting patrons in person, by phone, and via email.

Offer appropriate book recommendations to patrons of all ages through interviews and the creation of curated tools such as bookmarks, bibliographies, displays, and website content.

Organize and participate in programming, outreach efforts, and special projects that enhance service quality and strengthen community connections.

Actively promote library programs, services, collections, and digital resources to encourage exploration and engagement.

Schedule meeting rooms and provide general information to inquiries.

Interpret and clearly explain library and departmental policies and procedures to the public.

Circulation Services

Perform circulation functions including checking materials in and out, sorting, shelving, shifting, searching, and shelf-reading collections to ensure accurate organization and access.

Maintain accurate and confidential patron records in accordance with library policies.

Process fines, fees, and payments, and accurately manage cash register transactions.

Maintain organized, efficient workflows within circulation and service areas.

Provide technical assistance to staff and patrons with computers, mobile devices, library equipment, and library software such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Professional.

Assist with printing, scanning, copying, and other public technology services.

Demonstrate digital resources and online tools to patrons and staff, and report technical issues or equipment concerns as needed.

Teamwork & Operations

Assist with daily opening and closing procedures to ensure smooth library operations.

Collaborate effectively with staff across all departments to ensure seamless library operations and service delivery.

Contribute input toward the library’s strategic plan and actively support departmental goals, policies, and initiatives.

Serve on committees and assist with staff training and development efforts.

Participate in ongoing professional development to remain current with industry trends and best practices.

Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned to support organizational needs.

Position Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Demonstrates strong customer service and effective verbal and written communication skills.

Excellent problem-solving abilities, with flexibility and the capacity to exercise sound, independent judgment.

Detail-oriented and highly organized, with confidence in using technology and digital tools.

Ability to assist patrons with basic research inquiries and digital resources.

Enthusiasm for books, media, and the promotion of lifelong learning.

Ability to foster positive and collaborative working relationships.

Commitment to ongoing professional development and continuous learning.

Education

High school diploma or GED required

College coursework or specialized training preferred

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

Combination of desk work and active movement throughout the Library

Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching

Lift up to 25 lbs. regularly; push/pull up to 50 lbs.

Extended public-facing service and computer work

Requirement

Ability to successfully pass a background check

Please submit your completed application to [e-mail] or directly to the Library at 600 E. Spruce St., Chatham, IL 62629, Attn: Alanna S., Adult Services Supervisor.