Library Assistant II | Collection Services Department

This part-time, 20-hour-per-week position involves paraprofessional library work providing copy cataloging and data entry support for the Collection Services Department. This position performs data verification steps to make materials discoverable when patrons search the library catalog. 

This position is regularly scheduled to work at the Main Library. The hours of this position are flexible, but must be between 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday with the final schedule determined and set upon hire. Saturdays and evenings may be required.

Core Competencies

Data Entry and Copy Cataloging

• Record Retrieval & Modification: Search utility databases (such as OCLC Connexion) to find pre-existing cataloging records for books, media, and other physical or digital formats 
• Quality Control: Review and edit bibliographic data to match local library standards, classification schemes (e.g., Dewey Decimal or Library of Congress), and subject headings 
• Holdings Maintenance: Add local holdings information, barcode items, and prepare physical materials for circulation 
• Database Upkeep: Update, correct, and maintain existing item and bibliographic records within the local Integrated Library System (ILS) 

Project Management & Operations

• Prioritization & Adaptability: Ability to balance multiple creative projects simultaneously, managing a flexible schedule while staying organized under minimal supervision.
• Detail-Oriented Administration: Strong administrative skills in maintaining precise records, collection maintenance, inventories, and general office functions.
• Flexibility & Team Support: Highly adaptable and willing to step in to support various department staff workflows as operational needs arise.

Required

• Bachelor's degree, or any equivalent combination of training and experience.
  

Preferred

• Previous experience in a public library
  
• Ability to effectively communicate in Spanish
  

Ability to:

• Provide consistently friendly, accurate, and efficient service to GRPL patrons and staff; ability to make independent and reliable decisions related to patron experience.
  
• Demonstrate strong de-escalation skills to effectively manage challenging interactions.
  
• Assist and instruct patrons around hardware and software issues as they relate to library resources and public workstations.
  
• Effectively use and adapt to ongoing changes in technology including library-specific and office software.
  
• Solve research problems and provide reader's advisory service; knowledge of community, books, and authors; knowledge of digital resources, reading devices and platforms; learn and apply modern library methods and techniques and to acquire familiarity with the GRPL system and services offered.
  
• Establish and maintain positive working relationships with coworkers and the public; work collaboratively.
  
• Manage emotions in the workplace and maintain professional composure and judgement.
  
• Communicate effectively and professionally with diverse groups both verbally and in writing.
  
• Add, subtract, and perform basic accounting calculations accurately and efficiently.
  
• Set and meet priorities; adaptability and judgment to reprioritize as needed throughout the course of a shift.
  
• Perform standardized processes accurately and consistently; follow procedures in processing forms and other communication.
  
• Make independent and efficient decisions and work without close supervision.
  
• Maintain an organized and effective work process; flexibility to adapt to changes and updates to processes.
  
• Handle multiple projects at a time and prioritize effectively to meet deadlines.
  
• Maintain library records, support collection maintenance needs, and prepare reports.
  
• Work 20-24 hours per week; work evenings and weekends.
  
• Learn GRPL’s patron experience standards and library policies to provide basic account management, reference services, reader’s advisory, technology support, and library information.
  
• Apply patron privacy standards in a wide variety of circumstances with internal and external stakeholders.
  
• Work with supervisor and process feedback regarding job performance. 
  

Thorough knowledge of:

• General office procedures, processes and equipment; ability to operate a variety of office equipment, including computer workstations, typical electronic devices, and software.
  
• Electronic reading devices and platforms.
  

Please note the following:

• A cover letter is required
  
  • Please attach a cover letter in pdf format that describes your interest in the position, your interest in working at GRPL, and how these might tie in with personal or professional goals
    
• All communication regarding this position will be done via email; it is your responsibility to ensure that your email address is up-to-date on your account profile
  
• To be eligible for this position, you must apply through the City of Grand Rapids Job Opportunities page
  

Please visit the library's jobs page for a list of other open positions at Grand Rapids Public Library.

All inquiries related to this posting should be directed to: