Library Assistant

Meridian Free Library District•Meridian, ID

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Library Assistant provides consistent, high quality customer service in response to the needs of library users. This position focuses on providing account, information and reference assistance to patrons in addition to supporting other services provided by the District. The incumbent assists with the daily operations of the District and performs related duties as assigned. Work is performed independently with direction of the supervisor. The majority of work hours are spent working public service desks, providing customer service, and account and technology support.

Requirements

Provides exemplary customer service and maintains a favorable public image of the District.
Has a desire to work in a public service role.
Holds self accountable, and works to implement processes to prevent mistakes in coordination with manager and other departments and teams.
Future thinking mindset and ability to see the bigger picture of task implications District-wide required.
Ability to identify and loop in stakeholders in a timely manner.
Possesses a strong ability to find information and answers independently.
Works with a positive attitude, is highly professional, and demonstrates integrity.
Has excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively and appropriately with people from diverse backgrounds of all ages and demographics.
Must be able to juggle multiple priorities and patron needs.
Builds and maintains positive working relationships with individuals at all levels of the District and fosters positive partnerships with outside organizations.
Must have the ability to work alone, as part of a team, or at other locations as assigned.
Is capable of working independently or as a team.
Comfortable with change, ambiguity, and problem solving.
Proficient with standard computer applications (including Microsoft Office and Google applications), and online District automation systems.
Understands the role of technology in providing District services and is proficient in that technology.
Ability to learn and adapt to new software and equipment technologies.
1-2 years of experience in libraries, education, retail or customer-service related position or similar experience.
High School Diploma or G.E.D., or equivalent education, training, or experience.
Valid driver’s license preferred.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual, preferably Spanish-English, Russian-English.
An Associate’s degree or two years of postsecondary education and public speaking experience.
Desired personal attributes include a positive approach to interacting with the public, a continuous desire to update technology skills, and a sense of humor.
Familiarity with e-readers, mobile devices, and District’s digital content.

Responsibilities

Provides excellent customer service to patrons at public service desks, on the phone, and virtually.
Assists patrons with account issues and the circulation of materials.
Provides informational assistance to patrons and refers questions as needed.
Makes decisions based on District policies and procedures.
Determines needs and advises patrons about materials, resources, and technology equipment.
Aids visitors in regards to District services including databases, technology, and quality online sources.
Actively promotes respect for diversity and creates a welcoming environment.
Arrives to work location on time, ready to interact with the public.
Promotes a culture of accountability, teamwork, and adherence to the District’s guiding principles.
Performs circulation functions such as check-out, check-in and renewal of materials, issuing library cards, verifying and updating patron records, processing of fines and fees, and inspecting items for damage.
Processes requests for holds; conducts catalog searches, pulls materials from the stacks, searches for lost books, and checks availability of materials.
Maintains confidentiality of patron co-worker information.
Maintains physical appearance of the library.
Performs circulation duties including issuing library cards, checking materials in and out, reserving items, collecting fees, shelving library materials, and answering phones.
Promotes District collections, services, and programs.
Responsible for appropriate and appealing display of new materials and resources.
May be required to drive any District vehicle for delivery or outreach purposes.
May oversee or train the work of volunteers or interns and other staff.
Provides support to patrons with technology devices or use of the District’s hardware and software.
Assists patrons with computer use, printing and copying.
Provides basic technology instruction.
Maintains accurate records, collects statistics, tracks performance measures and prepares reports related to District services and events to include attendance, outcomes, evaluation, costs, etc. as required by leadership.
Completes clerical tasks such as record maintenance, compiling lists, and drafting resource guides.
Maintains good attendance and timekeeping records.
May assist in developing and providing some District programs with the direction of their supervisor.
Prepares reserved rooms.
May attend training and/or conferences.
Recommends purchases based on patron's interests and requests.
May open and close the branch and ensure the security of the building.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Participates in committee groups as assigned by the District to demonstrate our commitment to a culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and professional development.
This may include serving on a subcommittee, working group, or project team.
Actively promotes respect for diversity and creates a welcoming environment.