REFERENCE ASSISTANT

Pullman Wa; Pullman (WA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Neill Public Library seeks a Reference Assistant to staff the service desk, shelve materials, and assist the public in a friendly, professional manner. The role supports both in-person and remote inquiries via phone and email and adapts to varied duties throughout the day.

This year‑round, part‑time position requires effective communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work evenings and weekends as needed. Come join a welcoming team in a community‑minded library.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED.
• 1 year previous library or public/customer service experience.
• Ability to serve children and adults equally; knowledge of library and office computer applications, internet, or other online information sources.

Responsibilities

• Staff the service desk and provide general assistance to the public.
• Shelve materials and maintain circulation and public areas.
• Assist patrons with finding materials and information in person, by phone, and by email.
• Register new patrons and handle basic cash payments.
• Attend staff meetings and perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Communication

Customer service

Computer literacy

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Come work with an outstanding team, in an organization with strong community support and a welcoming inclusive environment! Neill Public Library is searching for an outstanding candidate with a passion for serving the community and enthusiasm for working in a team environment and independently. The ideal candidate will be able to communicate effectively and provide excellent customer service, in addition to being able to work a varied schedule to include evening and weekend shifts. This is a casual (8-16 hours per week), year-round, part-time position.

Reference Assistant – Circulation & Reference Department

Neill Public Library

Job Description:

Performs a variety of public service activities to include staffing the service desk, shelving materials, and providing general assistance to the public. This position has no supervisory responsibilities, and works under the direction of the Circulation & Reference Supervisor.

Circulation & Reference duties may include: opening and closing library; checking materials in and out, using computer systems; collecting and assisting with fine payments and cash handling; providing patrons information regarding online resources; greeting and directing patrons to locations in library; answering phone; registering new patrons; aiding patrons in finding materials and information in person, via the phone, and via email; general reference assistance for a wide variety of inquiries; receiving input from patrons and passing information to appropriate library personnel; attending staff meetings; and other duties as assigned.

Shelving duties may include: sorting and shelving books and other materials; cleaning and maintaining circulation and public areas; maintaining supplies and public information material; other duties as assigned.

Reference assistants may also be required to assist other library departments, dependent on operational need.

Requirements

Selection Factors include the ability to:

• Communicate effectively with diverse population, with an emphasis on English verbal and written skills.
• Interact with public in a courteous, diplomatic, pleasant, and tactful manner.
• Utilize a variety of computer software programs and equipment.
• Work efficiently and accurately in a high-demand, multi-task situation.
• Consistently carry out priorities, procedures, and policies as outlined by supervisor.
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail.
• Use number, alphabetical, and library classification systems with high degree of accuracy.
• Maintain confidentiality of information.
• Physically perform the essential functions of the job.

Minimum Requirements:

High School diploma or GED; 1 year previous library or public/customer service experience. Ability to serve children and adults equally; knowledge of library and office computer applications, internet, or other online information sources; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; and ability to work independently as well as with a team. Preference will be given to candidates with prior library computer systems experience.

Work Environment:

(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.)

Work is performed primarily in a library environment while sitting at a desk or computer terminal or while standing for extended periods of time, particularly for shelving. Physical exertion may be required to arrange and shelve library materials, to lift office supplies and library materials from overhead and from the floor. Sufficient vision and other powers of observation are essential to permit the employee to read, sort and shelve library materials and work with electronic patron records.

Disclaimer

This is a non-benefited position.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

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.