Library Associate

Lafayette•Lafayette, CO

About The Position

We are looking to hire a Library Associate with strong people skills who enjoys working directly with members of the public. The ideal candidate for this position provides excellent customer service at the Library’s service points; enjoys talking about books; delivers information services to the Library’s diverse customer base; supports the Library’s programs that promote literacy skills and lifelong learning; is technology literate and offers skilled and patient instruction to customers on the use of computers and other library technologies; and contributes to the maintenance of the Library’s collections. As part of the Circulation Team, this entry level position promotes books and reading to library customers of all ages, supports reader’s services, checks in and reshelves returned materials, and provides an energetic, friendly presence at the library. The Lafayette Public Library serves a population of approximately 30,411 residents and is a member of the Flatirons Library Consortium. The Library has a committed staff dedicated to facilitating equal access to services, community building, innovation, intellectual freedom, literacy, and lifelong learning. Each member of our Library team is integral to the success of our organization. We value vision, hard work, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. This part-time position is scheduled for 20 hours per week: Monday evenings 4:00 pm to 8:00pm (flexible from noon to 8:00 pm but must work until 8:00 pm) Wednesday evenings 4:00 pm to 8:00pm (flexible from noon to 8:00 pm but must work until 8:00 pm) Thursday evenings 4:00 pm to 8:00pm (flexible from noon to 8:00 pm but must work until 8:00 pm) Saturdays: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. (possible to only work two Saturdays per month, if preferred). Candidates with Spanish language skills are strongly encouraged to apply. Library experience is not a requirement of this position.

Requirements

Basic library functions and procedures
library principles and trends
familiarity with the Dewey Decimal System
familiarity with basic reference tools and philosophy
computer operations and information retrieval processes
collection development principles, and reader’s advisory tools
Proficiency in the operation of equipment necessary to perform the functions of the job
excellent customer service skills
strong computer skills
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
plan and perform a variety of assignments requiring initiative and some exercise of independent judgment
think and act appropriately under pressure
manage conflict effectively
work effectively in a team setting
One or more years of college
Previous general library experience or similar customer service experience preferred, or any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides evidence that the applicant possesses the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Nice To Haves

familiarity with Sierra by Innovative Interfaces, Inc.
Candidates with Spanish language skills are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Attend and participate in staff meetings and committees.
Help to maintain collections through weeding and rotation of materials.
Help to manage the Library’s event spaces and reservations.
Support, participate in and promote library programs and initiatives.
Use online software and databases to manage accounts, study rooms and material sources.
Assist in the management and inventory of supplies and resources.
Prepare books and non-media for library collection (stamping, placing labels, covering or packaging materials, etc.).
Check materials for accuracy and completeness.
Provide excellent customer service and maintain a courteous, positive image of the library when interacting with customers and staff.
Work at library service points providing information in person and on the phone.
Provide information on reference services and reader’s advisory services.
Answer questions regarding library policies, procedures, and records.
Maintain customer and staff confidentiality.
Keep informed of library information and changes via electronic and written communication and attendance at staff meetings.
Assist customers with the use of library equipment and resources, including computers, e-readers, the online catalog, automated reference tools, the Internet, databases, printers, scanners, and new technologies.
Support the daily transactions of the library.
Prepare library materials for customer use, processing holds, creating displays, locating materials, and assisting with material recommendations.
Keep current on library trends and technology.
Complete special projects as assigned, in a timely manner.
Perform other related duties as assigned.