PRINCIPAL LIBRARY ASSISTANT (PAY GRADE 17) AFSCME LOCAL 1607

In accordance with the Merit System Rules and Regulations, an eligible list, which will be valid for a one-year period and which will be used to fill vacancies during that period, is being established for this classification.  Applicants on the eligible list will be certified in accordance with the Merit System and appropriate union contracts.  
   
Candidates may submit online employment applications using the NEOGOV online application system available at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/nccde.
   
EXAMINATION PROCESS: The examination process for this posting may include an evaluation of training and experience, a written examination, a computerized exam, an oral board interview examination, a performance examination or any combination of the above in order to qualify applicants for placement on the eligible list.  The eligible list will be used to fill vacancies that occur within the next year.   The appropriate number of names on the eligible list as prescribed by Merit System Section 26.03.505 will be certified to the hiring department for consideration to fill the vacant position(s).
   

New Castle County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: 

The Principal Library Assistant is the senior-level circulation operations paraprofessional classification within the New Castle County library system. Employees in this role provide advanced public service, circulation oversight, and operational support requiring considerable knowledge of library procedures, technology, and customer service standards. The position functions as a lead worker for Library Assistants and volunteers and supports daily branch operations. Work is performed under general supervision and requires independent judgment, problem-solving, and a high level of patron interaction.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Public Service & Patron Assistance

• Deliver high-quality customer service at service desks, including circulation, account assistance, readers’ advisory, and basic reference.
• Assist patrons in locating materials, using the online catalog, accessing digital resources, and troubleshooting routine technology issues (printing, scanning, mobile devices).
• Resolve patron concerns, escalating complex issues to supervisory or professional staff as appropriate.
• Promote a welcoming and inclusive library environment for patrons of all ages and backgrounds.

Circulation & Account Management

• Oversee daily circulation desk operations; assist in balancing, cash handling, and resolving complex account situations.
• Train and guide staff in circulation procedures, customer service standards, and use of the integrated library system (ILS).
• Monitor holds, overdue processes, and interlibrary delivery workflows; ensure timely processing and accuracy.

Lead Worker Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day functional leadership to Library Assistants and part-time staff, including assigning tasks, monitoring workflow, and ensuring quality control.
• Serve as person-in-charge of circulation services during evenings, weekends, and manager absences, resolving operational issues, and patron conflicts using appropriate judgment.
• Support onboarding and training of new paraprofessional staff.

Collections & Materials Handling

• Coordinate shelving, shelf-reading, shifting, and materials maintenance to ensure designated areas remain organized and accessible.
• Oversee handling of new materials, periodicals, displays, and withdrawals according to system procedures.
• Identify and report simple cataloging corrections to technical services staff. 

Administrative & Operational Support

• Prepare routine statistical reports (circulation statistics, program counts, incident logs).
• Assist in maintaining supplies, equipment inventories, and branch organization.
• Participate in branch meetings, safety trainings, and countywide staff development activities.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Thorough knowledge of library circulation operations, public service techniques, and ILS functionality.
• Strong customer service, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to lead, train, and motivate paraprofessional staff and volunteers.
• Competence with computers, digital resources, and common office software.
• Ability to interpret and apply library policies, procedures, and guidelines consistently.
• Strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and accuracy in handling materials and accounts.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and resolve problems under pressure.
• Comfortable serving diverse populations, including children, teens, adults, and seniors.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• High school diploma or GED required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred. 
• Three (3) years of library or closely related public service experience, including circulation or customer service responsibilities. 
• Experience leading or training staff preferred. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Work performed in a busy public library environment with significant public interaction. 
• Required to work evenings and weekends as scheduled. 
• Frequent standing, bending and lifting of library materials (up to ~35 lbs). 
• May require travel to meetings, trainings or support at other branches. 
• Must pass a Class III County physical examination and a background check.