Library Assistant

About the position

The Oconomowoc Public Library is seeking a part-time Library Assistant to support early literacy and learning programs for families with young children. This role involves planning, implementing, and evaluating library programming, as well as providing assistance to library patrons. The Library Assistant will work under the supervision of the Youth Services Librarian and will be responsible for organizing story times, maintaining library programs, and assisting patrons with library resources and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Organizes and delivers weekly story times for preschool-aged children and their caregivers.
• Creates developmentally appropriate early childhood and family programs aligned with the library's mission statement.
• Assists with preparing, publicizing, presenting, implementing, and clean-up of events for children and families under the supervision of the Youth Services Librarian.
• Maintains and evaluates the library's 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Reading Program.
• Answers reference questions, provides reader's advisory, resolves patron problems, and provides guidance in the use of information resources during reference desk shifts.
• Assists patrons with the use of library equipment, including microfilm, internet, computers, photocopier, scanner, printer, and coin-operated print release station.
• Acts as staff member in charge when working evenings and weekends, monitoring patron behavior and addressing any problems respectfully.
• Serves as back-up shift coverage at the reference desk and youth services programs in case of staff illness or absence.
• Maintains order in the children's areas of the library.
• Prepares displays that feature and emphasize themes being presented.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in early childhood education, childcare, child development, or a related field required.
• Master's degree in library science from an ALA-accredited college or university or currently enrolled in an ALA-accredited MLIS program desirable.
• Experience working with young children in a professional setting (e.g., daycare, summer camps, preschool teacher, teacher's assistant) required.
• Reliable transportation for timely and punctual attendance.

Nice-to-haves

• Considerable knowledge of child development and early learning and literacy practices.
• Some knowledge of children's books and story time practices.
• Knowledge of online and print reference resources.
• Self-motivated to stay updated on the evolving needs and practices of child development, early learning and literacy, and family issues, especially in a library setting.
• Creative in motivating young children and families to explore the world of reading.

Benefits

• Part-time schedule with potential for additional hours in the future.
• Starting pay of $17.04 per hour.