Senior Library Assistant

Amador County (CA); Jackson (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Amador County Library is seeking an advanced paraprofessional to support library operations across circulation, reference, programming and outreach. You will work under supervision to ensure public spaces are welcoming, organized and well-maintained.

The role emphasizes planning and promoting programming for all ages, collaborating with schools, nonprofits and volunteers, and providing excellent customer service in a diverse community setting.

Qualifications

• Understanding of modern library science principles and services.
• Strong customer service and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to use library systems and technologies.

Responsibilities

• Perform specialized duties relating to circulation, reference, programs and outreach.
• Plan, implement and promote programming for all ages.
• Assess community needs to develop programs.
• Collaborate with staff, partners and volunteers to improve programs.
• Build relationships with community organizations and schools to expand services.
• Handle circulation tasks including check-in/check-out and shelving.
• Assist patrons with resources and technology.
• Resolve patron issues per policies and escalate as needed.
• Train staff and volunteers as required.
• Create promotional materials for programs and outreach.
• Evaluate outcomes and report statistics.
• Maintain safe and clean facilities.

Skills

customer service

communication

problem solving

library science knowledge

technology troubleshooting

teamwork

organization

attention to detail

Education

High school diploma

two years college in library science

Tools

Microsoft 365

Job description

DEFINITION

To perform the more complex and advanced library duties which support library operations relating to circulation, reference, programming and outreach, services to the public, children’s services and other areas; and to ensure that public spaces are welcoming, organized and well-maintained.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is an advanced level paraprofessional position, performing more complex library tasks under general supervision. The class is distinguished by its level of responsibility in specialized library areas and independence of action.

REPORTS TO

County Librarian or Library Supervisor

CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED

May provide guidance, training, and assistance to other staff and/or volunteers.

The following are the duties performed by employees in this classification. However, employees may perform other related duties at an equivalent level. Each individual in the classification does not necessarily perform all the duties listed.

• Perform specialized duties relating to circulation, reference, services to the public, children’s services and other areas.
• Plan, implement and promote programming and/or outreach for all ages.
• Assess community needs and interests to develop relevant and innovative program offerings.
• Collaborate with internal staff, partner organizations, presenters and volunteers to enhance program quality.
• Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, schools, nonprofits, and local businesses to expand library services and partnerships.
• Perform all circulation functions, including checking in and out library materials, renewing library materials, shelving materials, shelf reading, processing materials to be sent to other libraries, and collecting fines.
• Demonstrate strong customer service skills and ability to work with diverse groups.
• Assist patrons, in person or over the phone, in using library resources, materials, equipment and technology.
• Resolve patron issues within established policies and procedures, refer patrons to higher level staff or other appropriate services as needed.
• Train and provide guidance to other library staff when required.
• Train and assign tasks to volunteers when required.
• Assist in creating promotional materials for programs and outreach initiatives.
• Evaluate program outcomes, compile statistics and prepare reports.
• Monitor public areas and enforce library rules to ensure a safe and respectful environment.
• Ensure cleanliness of facility; coordinate with the County Librarian to ensure maintenance and safety of the building.
• Provide short-term coverage at branch libraries as needed.
• Perform related duties as required.

Knowledge of:

• Modern principles and practices of library science, collection development, public library programs and services, circulation, early literacy, library terminology and technology.
• Basic reference methods, techniques, and sources.
• Effective customer service and conflict resolution techniques in a variety of situations with a diverse customer population
• Effective English communication and usage; spelling, grammar and punctuation; basic alphabetical and numeric filing methods; basic mathematical principles.
• Modern office methods, procedures and equipment.
• Use of standard office equipment and software, including computers, photocopiers, Microsoft 365, internet, email systems, and other relevant software packages.

Ability to:

• Perform basic library services and functions with increasing skill and independence.
• Work comfortably with people of all ages, including children and teens.
• Adapt to a rapidly changing environment and learn new skills.
• Exercise sound independent judgment within established guidelines.
• Follow workflow and maintain attention to accuracy, detail and neatness.
• Learn, understand, interpret and apply policies and procedures.
• Learn library specific applications and technologies.
• Act as representative of Amador County Library to the public.
• Model and demonstrate strong customer service skills.
• Maintain a pleasant and productive working environment; maintain composure and work effectively, even while under pressure.
• Think creatively and problem solve.
• Communicate utilizing excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships and work as a team.
• Effectively troubleshoot more complex technology problems.
• Master procedures related to assigned work area.
• Establish priorities and organize work; adapt work routine to cover other library duties as needed; meet schedules and timelines.
• Keyboard, word-process and enter data at a speed and accuracy level necessary for successful job performance.
• Perform more complex search and retrieval of information using a variety of technologies.
• Work independently and collaboratively.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Lift, carry, push and/or pull items weighing up to 25 pounds; Bend at the waist, stoop, kneel or crouch; Climb a step stool/ladder and reach above shoulders. Dexterity of hands and fingers and hand-eye coordination to perform essential functions. Sit or stand for extended periods of time; frequently stand and walk. Hear and speak to exchange information in person or on the telephone. See to read a variety of materials.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is done in a standard office or library environment with moderate noise levels. Employees will have continuous contact with staff and the public and may interact with upset people in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. Occasional work outdoors and travel to other library branches.

Any combination of training which would likely provide the required knowledge and experience is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Education

High school diploma or equivalency is required, and two (2) years of college level coursework in library science or a related field.

Experience

Two (2) years experience in a public library, customer service position or related field.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Possession of a valid California Driver's License and reliable personal transportation for job-related travel.