Library Assistant - Intermittent (Community Engagement)

City of Richland•Richland, MS

2d•$27 - $37•Onsite

About The Position

The Richland Public Library is searching for individuals passionate about customer service and community engagement. As an intermittent, this position responds to schedule needs at varying days and times. Typical shifts include working customer service desks and assisting with a variety of programming. The ideal candidate is comfortable with a range of programming activities from performing independent story times for young children to assisting Librarians with larger, all-ages events. Benefits are not included as part of this position. GENERAL SUMMARY Performs administrative support work providing a variety of responsible library and clerical duties, assisting in the organization of the library and library materials, and related work as apparent or assigned. Works a varied schedule to include days, evenings and weekends. Work is performed under the close to moderate supervision of the Library Supervisor or designee.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and one (1) year of customer service experience with at least six (6) months of experience in community engagement.
Knowledge of: Library policies, procedures, methods, practices and equipment.
Principles of Intellectual Freedom and their application.
Purpose and functions of the library.
Basic reference and bibliographic tools, techniques and procedures.
Internet searching, use of Library catalog and online resources.
Modern office practices, methods, procedures and equipment.
Proper telephone techniques and etiquette.
Alpha-numeric and Dewey-decimal filing systems.
Computer software and data entry techniques.
Networking and programming trends (Community Engagement Option only).
Skills and abilities to: Perform a variety of responsible library and clerical duties.
Provide information, assist patrons in locating materials and demonstrate proper use of reference materials in a tactful and courteous manner.
Assist in the circulation and return of library books and materials.
Explain library practices, procedures and equipment.
Demonstrate the location of books, periodicals and other materials in the library.
Show attention to detail and accuracy.
Type 25 words per minute with accuracy.
Determine appropriate action within clearly defined guidelines.
Maintain library in an orderly and safe condition.
Monitor and maintain acceptable patron behavior in the library.
Operate standard library equipment.
Learn and apply interlibrary loan procedures and guidelines.
Communicate effectively both orally and in writing; comprehend and use English effectively including producing all forms of communications in a clear, concise and understandable manner to intended audiences.
Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; work independently with little or no direction, set priorities and meet deadlines.
Operate a variety of modern office equipment and personal computers in a windows computing environment using standard or customized software application programs appropriate to assigned activities.
Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and procedural guidelines.
Establish, maintain and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Provide continuous effort to improve operations and work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality customer service.
Assist with community outreach.
Assist with the conduct of children’s story time, crafts and other youth activities (Community Engagement Option only).
Assist with programming (Community Engagement Option only).

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working and/or volunteering in a public library
Two (2) year college degree or higher
Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Outlook and Word
Prior experience in a web-based work environment
Prior experience working with children in a professional or volunteer capacity

Responsibilities

Performs a variety of responsible library and clerical duties to assist patrons; answers reference questions; provides information and explains library procedures and policies; periodically assists in locating and gathering materials and demonstrates proper use of reference materials, eResources, databases and services; assists patrons with the use of various digital devices and library equipment.
Performs a variety of services at the circulation desk; checks books and materials in and out; sensitizes and desensitizes materials utilizing the library security system.
Assists in the monitoring of patron behavior and ensures positive and harmonious interaction and relationships between patrons and library staff, assists in the overall security of the library and its premises.
Organizes circulation desk, reference, and children’s desks as needed; performs opening/closing procedures; assists patrons at the desks and on the phone; directs or refers patrons to appropriate library personnel; promotes library services relevant to patron needs.
Registers patrons for library cards; issues and renews library cards according to established guidelines; performs and submits financial transactions on automated system; ensures security of monies at circulation desk; assists in maintaining security of library materials.
Sorts returned materials to carts or shelves; operates a variety of library equipment to perform assigned tasks; records library statistics; opens meeting and study rooms as scheduled; assists in maintaining a clean and orderly library environment.
Attends community outreach events to promote library usage and services; supports library programming, including the promotion, creation, and execution of library events.
Designs, plans, and implements programming for all ages to meet community needs; organizes community outreach events to promote library usage and services.
Assists the children's Librarian with story time and/or performs story times; welcomes children and parents; assists with programs and activities; gives library tours, and provides youth programming as needed; cares for the needs of and assists with maintaining discipline and ensures the safety of the children.
Assists with creating and implementing the summer reading program; generates marketing to promote the program; assists with social media promotion; assists with creating and designing displays and other materials to promote library activities and services.