Library Assistant I

Job Summary

Provides friendly, high quality customer service to Library customers under the direction of the Assistant Branch Manager, Customer Service.

Core Job Functions

• Performs circulation procedures, such as checking materials in and out, checking hold lists, conducting financial transactions, answering the phone
• Greets customers and provides directions or refers them to appropriate staff members if needed
• Spends time on the Library floor:
• Assisting customers at their point of need
• Merchandising: straightening books and displays, cleaning up, and maintaining a presentable atmosphere
• Monitoring the Library to maintain a safe space
• Assists customers with:
• Basic information and reader’s advisory questions
• Basic computer, eBook, email, and internet questions
• Self-checkout machine, copier, fax machine, and printer
• Use of Library resources and databases
• Information on Library activities, facilities, and services
• Maintains and operates basic office equipment
• Maintains accurate and current customer database in the Integrated Library System
• Assists in collection maintenance
• Performs all opening/closing procedures
• Performs interlibrary loan procedures
• Resolves basic customer concerns about fines or damaged items, Library policies, procedures, and rules
• Participates in workshops or trainings as requested
• Represents the Library at one or more outreach events each calendar year
• May:
• Participate in branch or system wide work teams
• Process Library materials
• Assemble and arrange displays of materials to support popular topics
• Attend professional meetings, maintain membership in professional organizations, and participate in their activities
• Performs other duties and participates in special projects, as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• General interest in reading and literature, and an awareness of trends in popular culture as well as current news events as they relate to customer interests and needs

Ability to:

• Learn St. Mary’s County Library policies and procedures
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, Library trustees, local government elected and appointed officials, community leaders, vendors, and citizens
• Learn to operate relevant computer systems (including hardware and software), current audio-visual equipment, and office machines
• Use common sense and good judgement
• Travel throughout the system and community, work a variety of schedules that include evenings and weekends, and accept system-wide transfers

Skills:

• Excellent communication skills, both in writing and orally
• Excellent customer service skills
• Excellent decision-making and problem solving skills with emphasis on personal responsibility and willingness to deal with issues at hand

Training and/or Education

High School Diploma or GED

Experience

Six (6) months or more of customer service experience.

Licenses or Certificates

None

Physical Demands

Work requires light physical effort in the handling of materials or boxes in non-strenuous work positions not to exceed 30 pounds and/or standing and/or walking 75% of the time.

Work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices or meeting rooms, e.g., use of safe work place practices with office equipment, and/or avoidance of trips and falls.

FLSA Classification

Non-Exempt

Grade

1

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job

2 positions available:

Schedule: 21 hours/week

- Mondays, 12 - 8 p.m.; Tuesdays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Alternating Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

OR

- Tuesdays, 12 - 8 p.m.; Thursdays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Alternating Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Benefits:

42 hours PTO, State Retirement