Patron Services & Reference Specialist

Middlesex Public Library; Piscataway Township (NJ); On-site; USD 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Middlesex Public Library in Piscataway Township, New Jersey, seeks a customer-service oriented library assistant to support Reference and Circulation duties. You will engage with patrons of all ages at the Reference Desk or by phone and help them access catalog and digital resources.

Strong communication and computer skills are essential. You will also handle routine circulation tasks such as issuing cards, registering patrons, tracking materials, and assisting with interlibrary loans and fines,

Responsibilities

• Answer reference requests and interviews at the Reference Desk or by phone.
• Provide instruction on catalog, website, eBooks, and eMagazine collections.
• Maintain knowledge of key resources and databases to assist patrons.
• Provide assistance at public computers and printers and troubleshoot problems.
• Receive and respond to compliments, complaints and suggestions.
• Charge and discharge library materials.
• Register new patrons and issue library cards.
• Open the building at start of day and close at end of day with required duties.
• Assist with internet access, databases, and online catalog.
• Use the computer system to help locate, borrow, and return materials.
• Keep materials organized behind Circulation Desk and reshelve if needed.
• Handle Inter Library Loan materials and hold requests.
• Keep statistics and documentation for circulation operations.
• Compute and collect fines and payments for lost materials.
• Answer patron inquiries about location, availability, and reservations.
• Maintain patron and collection databases to ensure data integrity.

Job description

Middlesex Public Library in Piscataway Township, New Jersey, seeks a customer-service oriented library assistant to support Reference and Circulation duties. You will engage with patrons of all ages at the Reference Desk or by phone and help them access catalog and digital resources.

Strong communication and computer skills are essential. You will also handle routine circulation tasks such as issuing cards, registering patrons, tracking materials, and assisting with interlibrary loans and fines,