Library Associate

City of Austin • Arlington, VA

2d • $22 - $24 • Onsite

About The Position

Under limited supervision, this position performs functions for the daily operations of the public library, including providing information and referral services, technology assistance, public programming, and outreach engagement.

The Library Associate at the Austin Public Library plays a crucial role in circulating materials and organizing them on the shelves to ensure that both customers and staff can easily find the items they need. They assist customers with their inquiries and help them use and understand library technologies. Library Associates also help with library programs and outreach engagement activities.

Requirements

• Knowledge of money handling and accounting practices.
• Knowledge of books, electronic databases, internet resources, bibliographies and reference materials.
• Knowledge of equity, diversity, and inclusion principles and practices in libraries.
• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws.
• Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
• Skill in customer service principles.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in planning and organizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software, including Microsoft Office products.
• Ability to assist library patrons and other staff.
• Ability to provide high-level customer service.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to use library automation and the internet.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees and the public.
• Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.
• Graduation with an Associate degree from an accredited college or university, plus one (1) year of experience in a related field.
• Experience may substitute for the education up to the maximum of two (2) years.
• Must be able to stoop, bend, walk, and reach to heights of six (6) feet.
• Must be able to pull or lift up to fifty (50) pounds.
• Must be able to push loaded book truck weighing up to three hundred (300) pounds.
• Must have manual dexterity to operate computer keyboard.
• Must have the ability to read, write, and speak fluently in English.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish, American Sign Language, or other languages as needed by the library location.
• Ability to interact and work with children, teens, adults, and diverse populations, including those unhoused, to help them enjoy library resources.
• Ability to travel and work at different library locations as needed.
• Experience creating public interest activities, events, and/or outreach services.
• Experience working in a library, bookstore, service industry, or similar environments.
• Ability to assist others with the Windows Operating System, navigating the internet, and composing, editing, and printing documents or files.

Responsibilities

• Greets and welcomes customers.
• Provides direct and indirect customer service to staff and public including staffing public service desks, checking materials in and out, pulling holds, re-shelving items, assisting with customer technology questions, creating displays, and other duties as needed.
• Creates and implements programs, including outreach engagement, based on community needs and City and department strategic priorities.
• Responds to customer inquiries and requests for information in-person, by phone, or online; and refers complex inquiries and requests to professional librarians, facilities, and technical staff when needed.
• Research and compiles information and resources.
• Provides administrative support including scheduling and coordinating meetings and room reservations, responding to phone calls, distributing mail, ordering supplies, and completing cash handling tasks.
• Maintains and manages data, records and reports; and prepares memos, letters, and other documents.
• Provides guidance to other Library Associates on an as needed basis.

Benefits

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree