Library Assistant

The purpose of this position is to provide clerical and routine paraprofessional work assisting in the delivery of services within the public library system. This class works under close supervision according to set procedures.

The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.

• Performs tasks requiring specialized knowledge or skill, e.g., cataloging, public relations, children’s services, educational and employment information.
• Performs copy cataloging requiring extensive editing and original cataloging.
• Designs and prepares library promotional publications, displays, exhibits, and writes press releases.
• Plans and executes programs storytelling, etc., using creative formats and techniques as appropriate to position; participates in system-wide programs.
• Assists patrons in person and over the telephone with general reference requests and informational requests; assesses patron needs through reference interviewing and provides appropriate resources.
• Demonstrates good knowledge of books and authors, and of reader interests; offers effective reader advisory service or assistance to general and special populations as appropriate to position; recommends materials for addition or replacement.
• Answers directional and informational questions and assists patrons with informational needs and materials selection; performs telephone renewals and operates a cash register.
• Instructs patrons in the use of computers, software programs, copiers and other technology products.
• Recommends library materials to be added to collection for supervisor’s approval.
• Designs and prepares bulletin boards.
• Assists in collecting statistics, preparing reports, and keeping records.
• Coordinates book binding: tracks books sent and returned; approves invoices; processes acquisition invoices; determines which books to discard. 
• Performs related work as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
• two (2) years of library and customer service-related work experience.