Public Service Assistant

The Role:
	The Public Service Assistant performs a variety of technical and clerical library customer service duties at the circulation desk related to such activities as circulation, collecting fines, and assisting patrons in person and over the telephone.  This is an entry-level classification. The ideal candidate for the role will have one year of customer service and library work experience.

1. Checks library materials in and out; evaluates condition of materials returned; sensitizes and desensitizes materials.
2. Registers patrons and updates registration information using on-line circulation system.
3. Verifies residency status and maintains records of library cardholders.
4. Explains and enforces library policies with patrons.
5. Collects and adjusts fines for overdue, lost or damaged materials and calls patrons for holds.
6. Assists patrons in person or on the telephone regarding library information, library materials or services, and refers them to the appropriate sources of information.  Also provides operator assistance for voice mail reverts.
7. Participates in the training of library pages and volunteer staff in work related to circulation.
8. Assists patrons with print management system, basic maintenance of computer peripherals, software/hardware and public network.
9. Provides general and department specific information to the public and to city employees.
10. Orients patrons to the library by informing them of services available and the location of materials.
11. Locates, pulls, and processes library materials requested by library patrons.
12. Assists patrons with locating books and other materials or use of library equipment.
13. Responds to telephone inquiries.
14. Collects overdue fines and processes lost book payments.
15. Processes damaged items and prepares associated bills.
16. Searches shelves for items claimed returned.
17. Works in a safe manner and reports unsafe activity and conditions.
18. Performs other related duties as required.

One year of customer service and library work experience.

Any equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. One year of relevant experience may be substituted for each year of required education.  

Knowledge of:

• Library policies and procedures
• Automated library systems
• Cash handling procedures
• Self-Checkout procedures

Skill in:

• Use of personal computers, computer applications and automated library systems
• Typing at a speed necessary for successful job performance
• Customer service

Ability to:

• Listen to, comprehend and respond to patron requests
• Provide information regarding the library and its services
• Operate library equipment such as laminators, copiers, spiral machine, poster makers, and other specialized equipment
• Perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlines
• Operate a personal computer using program applications appropriate to assigned duties
• Clean and monitor computer equipment such as headphones, mice, batteries, etc.
• Monitor computer usage
• Troubleshoot minor hardware and software problems
• Monitor various printer supplies
• Assist in the configuration of basic types of computer hardware and peripherals
• Assist with inventory of computer equipment and software
• Assist reference and youth staff with maintenance and special projects
• Communicate effectively both orally, in writing, and over the telephone with the public and other employees
• Comprehend written work instructions and sort and catalog a variety of books, written documents, and materials
• Sit at a computer for long periods of time
• Lift up to 20 pounds and maneuver heavy book carts
• Work safely in a library environment

Special Requirements

• Will be required to work evenings, weekends and holidays.

Success Factor Classification Level - Foundational

To view the success factor definitions please click here.   (If needed, click here to download PDF reader).  

This position description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the position change.Work is performed at a library circulation desk with the employee expected to repetitively lift and move library books and stand for long periods of time.  The employee is occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop and crouch. Exposure to potentially hostile persons or situations.

Salary : $17 - $25