Bookstore Key Carrier

The Village Market • Atlanta, GA

12d • Onsite

About The Position

Village Books is an independent bookstore in Atlanta that hosts author talks, signings, book clubs, and other community programming. The Key Carrier combines bookselling and customer service with responsibility for opening and closing the store, handling cash and deposits, operating the security system, and leading the sales floor when a manager is not present. The role also provides hands-on support for evening author and community events.

This is a part-time, hourly, non-exempt position with a maximum of 25 hours per week, paying $16.00 per hour. Core shifts generally fall between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.; event shifts typically end at approximately 8:30 p.m. Availability for at least two evenings per week, at least two weekends per month, and peak periods including Thanksgiving weekend and December is required. The position is on site at Village Books in Atlanta, Georgia.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience working in a bookstore, library, or comparable book-related environment; this experience is required.
• Demonstrated interest in books and reading, with the ability to speak credibly about titles, genres, and authors across a range of categories.
• Hands-on experience with point-of-sale systems and cash handling.
• Strong customer service skills and the ability to resolve concerns promptly and warmly.
• Basic math skills and comfort reconciling a cash drawer and preparing a deposit.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and be trusted with keys, codes, and cash.
• Availability for at least two weekends per month and at least two evening event shifts per week, typically ending at approximately 8:30 p.m.
• Availability for core shifts generally between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., as well as peak and critical business periods, including Thanksgiving weekend, December, major author events, and signature store events.
• Reliable, punctual attendance; schedules are posted in advance.
• Ability to pass a background check, consistent with applicable law.
• Ability to stand and walk for the duration of a shift.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds of boxed books, bend, reach, and climb a step ladder for shelving.
• Ability to move chairs and tables for event setup and breakdown.

Nice To Haves

• One year or more of experience in a keyholder, shift lead, or opening and closing capacity.
• Experience supporting author events, readings, signings, or library programming.
• Familiarity with bookstore inventory, ordering, and point-of-sale systems.
• Coursework or a degree in literature, library science, English, or a related field.
• Genuine interest in independent bookselling and the local reading community.

Responsibilities

• Open and close the store according to established procedures, including arming and disarming the alarm, managing lighting, and securing entry points.
• Lead the floor during assigned shifts when a manager is not on site, including closing after evening events.
• Count, verify, and reconcile the cash drawer at opening and closing; prepare bank deposits and complete daily sales reports.
• Safeguard store keys, alarm codes, and access credentials, and promptly report security concerns to management.
• Complete opening and closing checklists, shift notes, and incident reports.
• Greet customers, understand their needs, and recommend books across genres.
• Hand sell titles, build and maintain staff picks, and speak knowledgeably about authors and publishers.
• Process point-of-sale transactions, special orders, returns, and holds accurately.
• Receive, unpack, price, and shelve inventory; process returns to publishers and distributors.
• Maintain shelf order, alphabetization, section signage, and front-of-store displays.
• Assist with inventory counts and follow loss prevention procedures.
• Answer phone and email inquiries about books, availability, and events.
• Contribute ideas for displays, staff picks, book clubs, and programming.
• Set up and break down event spaces, including seating, signing tables, signage, and audio equipment.
• Manage event inventory by pulling and merchandising featured titles, staffing the register during busy periods, and reconciling sales afterward.
• Support visiting authors and partners on site and welcome event attendees.
• Close the store after events, which typically end at 8:30 p.m.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED