Library Assistant

Summary: Under general supervision, responsible of the organization of the Library. 
 Receives and checks out books, periodicals and audiovisual materials; assists patrons with registration of new library cardholders and issues new library cards; finds proper reference materials and updates information in public access catalogs; assists patrons in the use of library services and processes online patron registration requests; assists staff in performing a variety of clerical tasks; performs related responsibilities as required.
Distinguishing Characteristics: This position receives daily work tasks and guidance as to application of library policies and procedures from the Library Operations Supervisor, or Library Director. Incumbent(s) may determine the order in which tasks will be completed given the number of patrons being served and staffing availability.Essential Job Functions: Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.

• Provides exceptional patron service in person, online and via telephone.
• Inputs new book identification information into computerized cataloging and retrieval systems.
• Processes new items using the library system and express checkout function in Polaris.
• Types and laminates new materials after cataloging in order to be circulated to the public. 
• Handles fines and processes payment at public circulation desk. 
• Administers payments for overdue, lost materials, prints, copies, replacement of IDs, and processing payments through Munis system. 
• Maintains a well-stocked cash drawer; balances and prepares daily deposits.
• Opens and closes daily batches through Munis system of all transactions.
• Explains fine procedures for late return of borrowed materials.
• Processes online patron registration requests and assures all information is accurate and updated. 
• Performs catalog clean-up projects. 
• Maintains patron registration logs, circulation logs and desk information files.
• Assists with Inter-Library loans programs for patrons to access Libraries. 
• Explains the resource sharing network process through Link+, which allows library cardholders to borrow materials not available in the City’s Library collection.  
• Logs, labels and prepares magazines and newspapers for display and use by patrons.
• Inputs new video and DVD information into the public access catalog system, prepares and labels items for public use.
• Ensures shelves are organized by order and re-shelves materials as needed. 
• Mends books including missing book covers, pages, labels, and broken spines.
• Assists public by explaining basic library procedures for registration and circulation of books, periodicals and audiovisual materials.
• Assists patrons with computers, copy machines, card catalogs and microfilm reader. 
• Aids patrons and references them to different library locations as needed. 
• Attends library staff meetings and completes training programs.
• Stocks supplies throughout the Library such as; paper, pencils, colors, markers, hand sanitizer, necessary for daily activities. 
• Sets up and removes audiovisual equipment for patron use during trainings, programs and activities. 
• Maintains accurate and updated information on social media such as Facebook and City’s website; may prepare flyers and materials to advertise the City’s Library programs and special events throughout the year.
• Maintains accurate statistics for all activities and programs.
• May serve as backup for requisition entry and processing on Munis system. 
• Responsible for Zipbook program coordination such as; taking requests via application, program information and following up with patrons to ensure delivery and return to the Library. 
• Plans and executes children’s programs to include crafts, story time, game day, movies and bingo. 
• Plans and organizes library events such as Family Night, Summer Reading Program; prepares presentations and raffles during programs. 
• Assists with Libraries in the Spectrum programs that help children with Autism.
• Assists with TMI, AdJoin and ARC program that help individuals with disabilities.
• Schedules Community Rooms A & B and determine if organization qualifies for non-profit status or collecting appropriate payment. 
• Mails overdue notices and bills for patrons to minimize losses to the Library.  
• Manages the Library Branch including opening and closing of the branch. 
• Reaches out to community business for donations; including pop-up sites and advertising programs.
• Conducts school tours to inform school-aged children of the library and our programs.                                       
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

The preceding activities have been provided as examples of the types of work performed by positions assigned to this job classification.  The City reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind work assignments as needed.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:

• Basic library functions, operations, procedures and services. 
• Library policies, operations, functions, procedures and services.

Skill to:

• Operate a computer terminal to access, enter and update library records. 
• Process information on library forms, files and records; operate a cash register.

Ability to:

• Communicate and work cooperatively with co-workers, supervisors and patrons.
• Assist public by explaining library rules and procedures.
• Organize the repair of damaged books.
• Inspect the condition of books before and after check-out to ascertain any damage on behalf of the customer.
• Sort books by serial number, author, and title.
• Organize and file library materials alphabetically, numerically and chronologically.
• Understand and carry out oral or written instructions.
• Learn and follow library procedures and secretarial tasks involving registration, circulation, delinquencies and on-line cataloging systems.
• Exercise tact when receiving public complaints or when collecting fines for overdue library materials.
• Attend to any disruptions or disturbances in the library, requiring confidence and excellent communicative skills
• Work day shift assignments, night assignments at least once each week and on Saturdays as needed.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:  Six (6) months of prior experience as a library page or related clerical and some experience in a customer service roll.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIRMENTS:
Required:

• High school diploma from an accredited school or U.S. equivalent.

• Basic computer literacy.
• Outstanding organizational skills.
• Attention to detail and good problem-solving ability.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.

LICENSING/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Class C California driver's license and an acceptable driving record must be maintained.

Environmental Factors and Conditions/Physical Requirements:

• Work is routinely performed in office environments with minimal exposure to inclement weather, and varying temperatures.
• Required to sit, stand or walk for extended periods.
• Required to use hands to finger, handle, grip, grasp or feel objects.
• Required to hear and speak to exchange information in person and on the telephone.
• Required to communicate verbally and in writing.
• Required to interact with a variety of people.
• May be required to bend, stoop, kneel, crawl and crouch.
• May occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.

Equipment and Tools Utilized:

• Personal computer, copier, fax and other standard office equipment. 

If you have a disability that requires assistance at any point in the recruitment process (for example, filling out applications, testing, interviewing), please notify the Human Resources Department. The City of El Centro performs job-related medical/physical evaluations and pre-employment/promotional drug screening. EEO/ADA.