What are the responsibilities and job description for the Library Assistant - O'Neill Branch position at City of Cambridge, MA?
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Under minimal supervision, provides outstanding customer service to diverse patrons of all ages and performs circulation, programming, reader's advisory and clerical duties in all areas of unit.
- Deliver exceptional and engaging service to the public.
- Perform circulation and patron account management duties.
- Assist patrons in locating books and information and in using a wide range of technologies (e.g., computers, laptops, e-readers, tablets, scanners, emerging STEAM technologies, Wi-Fi hotspots), including basic troubleshooting and maintenance.
- Maintain orderliness and neatness in the library. Process deliveries; merchandize and shelve materials.
- Monitor public areas of library.
- Communicate and apply library policies and procedures; address and resolve patron issues.
- Promote library services and may participate in outreach and programming activities, including setting up and operating audiovisual and STEAM equipment.
- Perform data entry, record editing, and other clerical tasks.
- Participate in trainings and workgroups for planning and implementing projects, programs, and initiatives.
- May assist with special projects and coordinate daily tasks of unit.
- Other duties as required for the good of the Library.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education and Experience: High school diploma or high school equivalency is required. In exceptional instances, specialized education, training and/or experience may be substituted for part or all of the required elements.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Knowledge and understanding of the Library’s mission, vision, values and strategic priorities.
- Commitment to doing all work through a lens of diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism.
- Strong customer service skills and commitment to public service.
- Ability to work with a diverse population in an urban setting.
- Effective communication, interpersonal skills, and a positive attitude.
- Sound judgment and problem-solving skills, including the ability to handle unexpected situations.
- Strong teamwork skills, including flexibility to fill in during scheduling emergencies and vacation periods.
- Knowledge of urban public library concepts and techniques, literature and media, digital resources, and current technology.
- Ability to operate library computers, equipment, software and systems.
- Knowledge of developmental principles, materials and current issues related to serving target audiences.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university is desirable. Experience working in public libraries or other community settings is desirable. Fluency in a language in addition to English is desirable.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Ability to operate standard office equipment; transport carts of materials which can weigh more than 100 pounds across a level floor or on a ramp; carry baskets of materials weighing up to 30 pounds; pay attention to details and concentrate on tasks despite frequent interruptions and moderate noise levels; communicate effectively and exchange accurate information with coworkers and members of the public; read and organize written material; place library materials on shelves or carts which can be located at floor level or overhead.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Works in assigned area, including office areas, training rooms, library locations, as needed. Normal office exposure to noise, stress and interruptions.
SCHEDULE: The work week is 30 hours assigned in the best interests of the Library and includes evening and Saturday hours. The initial schedule will be:
- Monday: 3:00-8
- Tuesday: 10:30-7
- Wednesday: 9:30-6
- Thursday: 10:00-3
- Friday: 10:00-3 (or off for Saturday)
- Saturday: 12:00-5 (Rotation #1 on a 3-week rotation)
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:
Please upload the following documents to complete your application:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
ABOUT THE CITY OF CAMBRIDGE
The City of Cambridge is a diverse and vibrant community that 120,000 residents of different ethnic, racial, religious, U.S. nationals and other backgrounds call home. We take pride in our City’s diversity and strive to create a workplace that is reflective of the community we serve - one in which all employees can thrive. The City is also deeply committed to creating an environment in which all our employees are treated equitably and feel included. In joining our team, you would work in a workplace environment that advances and values antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion (ADEI), and that is committed to embedding ADEI best practices and tenets in all aspects of our work. City of Cambridge residents are especially encouraged to apply to job openings.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
The City of Cambridge is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, or any other protected category. Women, minorities, veterans, members of the LGBTQ Community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The City is committed to advancing a workforce culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats, and reasonable modifications in policies and procedures will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities free of charge, upon request by contacting Human Resources at humanresources@cambridgema.gov.
