Library Assistant II, Youth Services

The Verona Public Library seeks a dynamic, energetic, and innovative person with a strong dedication to patron services to become part of our team of Youth Services Librarians. This is a part-time (50%) position averaging 18 hours/week. Work involves providing reference and reader’s advisory service to children, teens, and adults at a public service desk; assisting with the library's collection and spaces; and preparing and implementing equitable story times and other programming for children birth to 18 and their families. The ideal candidate will be someone who is excited to work with children and families, demonstrates initiative, possesses strong technology skills, is proficient in Spanish, and can thrive in a busy, fast-paced environment. Schedule includes regular daytime, evening, and weekend hours.

Starting wage for this position is $22.12 per hour. Prorated benefits include accruing sick leave, paid holidays, personal time, paid vacation, comp time, dental insurance, and flexible spending and deferred compensation options. Depending on work history, the candidate may qualify for health insurance benefits and the Wisconsin Retirement System.

Typical Responsibilities of Position

Under the immediate supervision of the Head of Youth Services, this staff member is responsible for providing patron assistance in locating library materials and accessing library collections, both print and online; helping to plan, publicize, and carry out programming and outreach for children and teens; explaining library services, policies, and procedures; and answering reference and materials advisory questions in person, by phone, or through email. 

Examples of Work

1. Plan, organize, and conduct library services and programs for youth.
2. Provide reader’s advisory, reference and other patron assistance services at the Youth Services’ desk, throughout the library, and at outreach locations.
3. Assist with collection development, including weeding.
4. Assist in library technology implementation.
5. Support the Community Engagement Librarian by conducting library tours, presenting programs to local groups, and performing other outreach activities for library patrons and community organizations including schools.
6. Promote library services through various types of publicity.
7. Assist patrons with computer use and other mechanical operations of library equipment.
8. Process, repair, or recondition library materials.
9. Assist in maintaining accuracy of the public catalog and website.
10. Carry out library policies and procedures.
11. Perform light housekeeping.
12. Perform all other duties as assigned.

Knowledge and Abilities

1. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from patrons and staff.
2. Ability to follow detailed directions.
3. Ability to maintain a regular work schedule.
4. Ability to maintain a positive attitude during difficult patron interactions
5. Ability to perform reference and materials advisory work and materials selection.
6. Ability to plan, organize and carry out a program of library service for a designated area.
7. Ability to maintain confidentiality of library patron information.
8. Ability to use computers, library-related software, and databases effectively.
9. Ability to work independently and collaboratively, organize and prioritize work, and respond to varied and changing work demands.
10. Ability to understand library policies and procedures and apply them to library operations.
11. Possess knowledge and understanding of youth literature and child development. 
12. Ability to understand library principles, technology, goals and philosophy of services.
13. Possess great interpersonal skills and ability to maintain and foster cooperative and courteous working relationship with the public, peers and supervisors.
14. Ability to provide inclusive and equitable programs and services to diverse populations.
15. Demonstrate a willingness to maintain skills in the above-mentioned areas through active participation in appropriate continuing education activities.
16. Ability to use professional English grammar and spelling, verbal and written communication skills, and age-appropriate language with various audiences.
17. Applicants with Spanish language or ASL proficiency are encouraged to apply.

Physical Demands 

1. Shelving and handling materials.
2. Keyboarding.
3. Near vision to read faded type and small font size on item labels, plus regular reading on computer monitors.
4. Far vision to observe patrons in need of assistance from a distance of 20 feet or further.

Mental Demands 

1. Ability to adapt and work effectively in a dynamic environment.
2. Ability to apply library-related knowledge.
3. Ability to comprehend and follow verbal and written instructions from supervisors.
4. Ability to identify problems and opportunities and suggest improvements.
5. Ability to effectively communicate ideas and information both in written and verbal form.
6. Ability to set priorities to meet assignment deadlines.

Environmental/Working Conditions

The environment is a busy public library whose patrons represent a socially, culturally, and economically diverse community. Work takes place in an inside environment with moderate noise levels, plus occasional outdoor events. Position may require daytime, evening, and weekend hours and occasional travel to meetings and events outside the library.

 Equipment Used

Computer, library automation system, Microsoft Office software, databases, audiovisual equipment, printer, copy machine, scanner, fax machine, telephone, book truck, die-cut machine.

Education and Experience

1. At least two years of study at an accredited college, university, or technical school or related experience is required.
2. Experience working with children and/or teens is required.
3. Customer service experience is required.
4. Public library experience is preferred.

The City of Verona is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Library Board approved July 7, 2021