North Branch - Library Assistant I - North Branch

About the role

Under the supervision of the Customer Service Manager or Branch Manager, assists customers with registering for library cards and using the self-check system. Answers questions about library accounts and solves problems for library customers. Provides prompt and friendly customer service to patrons and assists them with a variety of tasks relating to their use of library materials. Works with the circulation team to handle the flow of items.

This position exercises no supervision.

Responsibilities

• Serves at the circulation desk checking in and checking out library materials, registering patrons, collecting overdue fines, and assisting patrons with directional and “ready reference” information.
• Inputs data into the database regarding library patron information and library materials.
• Shelves materials, reads shelves, and creates displays to assist in maintaining a neat and orderly library collection.
• Conducts regular inventory of the paperback collection and organizes the newspaper rack, ensuring both areas are in good order.
• Provides Readers Advisory service to library patrons and staff.
• Assists the public in the use of the library’s online catalog and digital resources.
• Assists the public with hands-on computer assistance as well as photocopying assistance.
• Maintains and cleans the audiovisual collections.
• Travels between work sites for meetings, programming, and training as required.
• Assists with holds, claims returned, and missing items on a routine basis, clearing materials as necessary.
• Performs other job-related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Knowledge

• Library policies, procedures, systems, and services including the Dewey Decimal System.
• Bibliographic database and related search procedures.
• Working knowledge of library collections (circulation and reference).
• MS-Office Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint as well as Google Suite.
• Internet search capability and techniques.

Skills

• Accurately operate a computer.
• Present and apply a dedicated commitment to public service.
• Adapt to changing circumstances and situations.
• Perform with a positive attitude using unwavering work ethic.

Abilities

• Use tact and always remain courteous.
• Use independent judgment and initiative within the framework of departmental policies and established procedures.
• Learn to use the computerized circulation system.
• Work with library customers and staff in a friendly and efficient manner.
• Acquire and perform routine library functions and procedures quickly and accurately.
• Learn and apply money collection procedures.
• Clearly communicate policy to library customers.
• Communicate clearly and concisely in writing.
• Operate standard office equipment.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, both internally and externally.
• Follow and embrace the City of Abilene Core Values – Respect, Integrity, Service Above Self, and Excellence in All We Do.
• Perform as a team member in a manner that accomplishes the Division’s mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect.

Experience

One (1) year of public contact and/or customer service experience as well as familiarity with basic library procedures and demonstrated knowledge of computers is preferred. Previous clerical or library clerical experience in a public library preferred.

Education

A high school diploma or GED is required. An associate’s degree is preferred.

License / Certificate

A valid current Texas driver’s license, the ability to obtain one within ninety (90) days of employment, or a military waiver is required.

Physical Requirements

Outreach and other programming may necessitate working outside in seasonal weather conditions as needed. Must be able to work evenings and weekends and maintain regular reliable attendance.

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to sit, walk, kneel, crouch, stoop, squat, twist and climb.
• With or without accommodation, ability to regularly lift up to 40 pounds of library materials.
• Ability to push or transport a loaded cart weighing up to 150 pounds.
• Ability to travel to different work sites.
• Manual dexterity to operate a computer and telephone equipment.
• Ability to see and hear which may be accomplished with the assistance of eyeglasses, contact lenses, and/or hearing aids.

Essential duties require the following physical skills and work environment (Medium strength demand – lifting no more than 50 pounds; carrying up to 25 pounds):

• Standing – Moderate (30–60% of the time)
• Sitting – Moderate
• Walking – Moderate
• Lifting – Moderate
• Carrying – Moderate
• Pushing/Pulling – Moderate
• Overhead Work – Moderate
• Fine Dexterity – Extensive (70–100% of the time)
• Kneeling – Moderate
• Crouching – Moderate
• Crawling – Moderate
• Bending – Moderate
• Twisting – Moderate
• Climbing – Infrequent (10–20% of the time)
• Balancing – Moderate
• Vision – Extensive
• Hearing – Extensive
• Talking – Extensive
• Work Outside in Elements – Infrequent