Current Open Position: Seasonal Library Assistant

$9.00/hr 20-30 hrs a week
Open Until Filled
Please bring a resume and 2 letters of recommendation to the Library

JOB TITLE:                            Seasonal Library Assistant                  

Supervision:     Under the general supervision of the Library Director

Min/Max Base Salary:  $9.00 per hour       FTE: PT  20 – 30 hours per week

Position Overview: A Library Assistant I performs professional library functions requiring general knowledge in all areas of public library services. This position focuses on shelf management, technical processing and general assistance duties. The Library Assistant I acknowledges and accepts the Library’s Code of Service, upholds Montana’s confidentiality laws and maintains the integrity of the Lewistown Public Library.

Principle Job Duties (not all inclusive):

General:

• Aspires to help patrons to become lifelong library users by introducing them to the wealth of library resources and enables them to use library services effectively.
• Assists patrons in locating needed resources in all formats and provides assistance for Internet usage and computer programs within the Library.
• Provides Reader Advisory and basic instruction for all ages, as requested, for print materials, Internet usage, computer programs and electronic databases.
• Sustains the dignity of patrons by giving them correct, non-judgmental and complete responses to their informational needs. Provides help where needed and respects patron’s right to browse.
• Informally assesses the community regularly to identify community needs and preferences.
• Keeps current on new library materials and technologies.
• Prepares correspondence/documentation on procedural or informational matters as needed or requested.
• Keeps Director informed as to project progression, needs and outcomes.
• Maintains and manages technological equipment (photocopier, printers, AV equipment, computers and reader/printer) requiring minimal servicing and accountability within the Library, may train other staff on the use of this equipment as requested.
• Handles monetary payments for fines, donations, ILL, etc.
• Enforces library rules for the protection of library patrons and property.
• Helps to maintain a neat, clean, functional and inviting library. Provides a welcoming and safe atmosphere.
• Participates in circulation tasks, which may include checkouts, record keeping, opening and closing routines, reserves, sorting mail and other tasks associated with circulating materials.
• Plans, implements and follows through with procedural and informational duties and assists with library promotion and marketing as assigned.
• Assists the public, on the phone or in person, on the use, availability and status of library materials.
• Interacts with customers and staff in a courteous and professional manner and attempts to defuse and/or resolve potentially volatile or sensitive situations to ensure quality customer service.
• Performs duties requiring adherence to standards of accuracy, timeliness, tact and confidentiality.

Shelf Management Responsibilities:

 Shelves all library materials.

• Collaborates with and informs staff of any shelving changes.

Technical Processing Responsibilities:

• Prepares library materials for processing and makes them shelf ready.
• Reviews, maintains and repairs library materials.
• Keeps Director apprised of processing material inventory.

 Other Assigned Duties May Include:

• Serving as assistant for circulation.
• Assisting with Youth Services activities and programs.
• Assisting with Outreach programs.
• Simple maintenance and manual tasks.
• Data entry of patron information.
• Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION:

Under general supervision of the Library Director, but may be directed in certain tasks by other library staff.  

RESPONSIBILITY FOR WORK OF OTHERS:

May oversee volunteers or community workers as appropriate.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

 High School diploma or GED is preferred. Some college coursework is preferred. Knowledge of electronic resources and other information technology sources to meet typical library needs is desirable. A desire to work with the public of all ages in providing excellent customer service is essential.

Must have basic skills in operating personal computers including word processing, spreadsheets, and electronic software. A basic knowledge and skill in typical office procedures is desirable.

 The position requires a commitment to customer service excellence; the ability to see the big picture of the Library; the ability to work well with others in a team; the ability to provide leadership and plan, prioritize and focus on what is critical; commitment to lifelong learning; recognition of the value of professional networking; and the ability to remain flexible and positive in a time of continuing change.

 WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  Physical requirements include ability to move around the facility, walk, sit, bend, climb, kneel, stoop, carry and stoop; Ability to use hand and finger motion with enough manual dexterity to use computers and handle library items; Lift up to 25#, or greater with assistance; perform other efforts as identified with normal library work; have the ability to communicate with patrons effectively; must have the ability to talk with clarity and be able to listen to patrons accurately; have specific vision abilities (adjusted) that include close and distance vision with good depth perception (reasonable accommodations may be available); Typing ability and computer skills are essential.

Duties are performed in surroundings where undesirable physical conditions and hazards are minor and controllable.