Library Assistant

Joining the team at Gaston County Government means being part of a community that is dedicated to improving the lives of its citizens. We are a dynamic organization that values innovation, collaboration, and commitment to service.

As an employee of Gaston County, you will have the opportunity to make a difference in your community every day. Whether you are working in public safety, social services, or administration, your contributions will help improve the lives of our residents and build a better future for our county.

Description

The Gaston County Public Library operates ten facilities including the Main Library in Gastonia and branches: Belmont, Builders & Creators @ Bessemer City, Cherryville, Dallas, Ferguson Branch (Erwin Center), Mt. Holly, Stanley, TECH@Lowell and Union Road.

The Gaston County Public Library delivers services via three program areas:

Administrative & Technical Services - Acquires, catalogs, processes, and distributes library materials for/to all Gaston County library service outlets. Staff provides technical support for the library’s automation system and advisory and resource assistance to public service staff. Administration manages the Library budget, personnel, and day-to-day library business operations, determines system wide library service direction, and establishes service policies and procedures.

Main Library Services - Provides direct assistance to the public in-house, by telephone, FAX, e-mail, and the Library’s website via two service points: Adult Services (Circulation and Reference) and Children's Services. Responsibilities include registering borrowers, processing loans and returns, answering reference and information requests, planning and conducting library activity programs, and assisting in-house users with library materials and equipment.

Branch Library Services - Facilitate the delivery of library materials and services to citizens throughout the County. Staff provide direct assistance to library users: registering borrowers, processing loans and returns, answering reference and information requests, planning and conducting library activity programs, and assisting in-house users with library materials and equipment.

Examples of Duties

The duties listed below are not all of the duties that may be assigned but are those that are considered as essential for an employee to perform.

• Provides excellent customer service in order to create an environment that leads to positive user experiences and that is welcoming and inclusive to all.
• Provides patron assistance in all aspects of library use including readers’ advisory, material check out, library card registration, and information assistance.
• Handles monies as needed for fees and other services.
• Assists patrons in bridging the digital divide by providing help with job searching, Internet searching, online database use, and accessing the Library’s electronic collection
• Provides technical assistance and instructs patrons in the use of Makerspace tools, technology, and software.
• Plans and implements in-house and outreach library programs and activities for all age groups.
• Makes recommendations for the purchase of library materials; weeds collection as needed.
• Promotes branch and system services in-house and in the community via exhibits & displays.
• Assists other locations as needed. Assumes responsibility for branch facility and services in supervisors’ absence.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

Requires a high school diploma or a GED equivalency AND at least two years of experience in a service related environment, preferably in a library setting. Candidates must be experienced in the use of Microsoft Office applications, social media, and database resources.

Must be able to work a flexible work schedule from 10:00 AM-6:00 PM Monday through Friday, which may also include one night per week until 8:00 PM, and between 10:00 AM-2:00 PM on alternate Saturdays.

• Must have the physical ability to lift books and other materials and stand for long periods of time.
• Must possess the ability to receive instructions and communicate with the public.
• Must be committed to working with diverse populations and creating a welcoming environment.
• Must have strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to work independently
• Strong computer skills required.
  
  

Additional Information

The applicant selected must undergo and pass a drug screening test prior to employment.

At Gaston County, we are committed to providing equal opportunity to all employees, job applicants, and members of the community we serve. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable laws.

Gaston County will not sponsor applicants for work visas.

Full-Time employees are eligible for the total compensation package which includes:

• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Retirement Savings Plans
• Pension
• 401K (with 5% county contribution annually)
• Flexible Work Schedules
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Discounted YMCA Membership

Part-Time employees are eligible for certain benefits as a part of employment with Gaston County such as:

• Pro-Rated Sick and Annual Leave
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Local Government Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
  
  

Half-Time employees are not eligible for benefits.

To learn more details about the many benefits we provide view our Employee Benefits Guide.

Overall, if you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career with competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, Gaston County is the place for you.

01

Are you willing to work a flexible work schedule from 10:00 AM-6:00 PM Monday through Friday, which may also include one night per week until 8:00 PM, and between 10:00 AM-2:00 PM on alternate Saturdays.?

• Yes
• No
  
  

02

Which statement below best describes the highest level of education you have completed?

• High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (GED)
• Associate degree
• Bachelor's degree
• Master's degree
• Professional degree
• Doctorate degree
• Required Question