Library Assistant (Part-time)

City of Sioux City•Sioux City, IA

22h•Onsite

About The Position

The Library is seeking a detail-oriented and organized individual to join its Technical Services Department as a part-time (20 hours per week) Library Assistant. This position is responsible for ordering, receiving, cataloging, and processing library materials; maintaining accurate records in the Library's integrated library system; communicating with vendors regarding orders, shipments, and account inquiries; and reconciling invoices and purchase records to ensure accurate payment processing. Additional responsibilities include assisting with collection maintenance projects, performing data entry, and supporting other Technical Services functions as needed. The successful candidate will possess exceptional customer service and communication skills, a positive attitude, and strong organizational abilities. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, conscientious, and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. The ability to manage multiple tasks, adapt to changing priorities, and maintain a high degree of accuracy is essential. Strong critical thinking and technical skills are also required. This position may occasionally work at public service desks, assisting patrons with Library resources, services, and technology. The position is primarily scheduled during daytime hours, with occasional evening and weekend shifts as needed. Employees must live within 30 miles of Sioux City (including parts of Nebraska and South Dakota). Applicants must include a resume and cover letter with job application to be considered.

Requirements

Exceptional customer service and communication skills
Positive attitude
Strong organizational abilities
Detail-oriented
Conscientious
Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
Ability to manage multiple tasks
Ability to adapt to changing priorities
Ability to maintain a high degree of accuracy
Strong critical thinking skills
Strong technical skills
Ability to apply current library technology and automated services in selecting appropriate materials, resources and services to assist patrons
Ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative in serving the general public
Ability to maintain records and reports regarding Library usage and services
Adjusting actions in relation to others’ actions
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents
Ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences
Ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted
Thorough knowledge of Library policies and practices
Broad range of reference, general technology, and readers’ advisory materials and services
General clerical methods and procedures
Knowledge of basic business math and computer applications, public relations and the ability to use the English language effectively
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, designing forms and workplace terminology
Effective communication skills
Ability to provide technical assistance and direction to other employees and Library patrons
Ability to speak clearly, distinctly and effectively with patrons and fellow employees
Read in English and compare similarities and differences between words and series of numbers
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience
Apply common sense understanding to the work process, procedures, programs and services
Follow verbal and written instructions
Ability to establish and effective working rapport with fellow employees, patrons, and City officials
Ability to reach and handle a variety of paper documents using fingers and hands
Precise use of fingers in typing and entering data using a standard keyboard
Clarity of vision at 20” or less
Numerical/clerical/form perception and discrimination
Visual and sound perception
Manual dexterity and motor coordination of eyes, hands, and fingers at a normal speed in handling various sized objects
Valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s license
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university in any field of study and at least one year of public service experience in any profession; or High School Diploma or GED and at least three (3) years of clerical experience working in an office setting and two (2) years of experience working in a public library performing reference or circulation duties with customer service responsibilities; or Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities
Resume and cover letter with job application

Nice To Haves

Occasional evening and weekend shifts as needed
Some occasional exposure to extreme weather conditions

Responsibilities

Ordering, receiving, cataloging, and processing library materials
Maintaining accurate records in the Library's integrated library system
Communicating with vendors regarding orders, shipments, and account inquiries
Reconciling invoices and purchase records to ensure accurate payment processing
Assisting with collection maintenance projects
Performing data entry
Supporting other Technical Services functions as needed
Staffing public service desks
Assisting patrons in person and via telephone or the internet with general use of the Library
Answering reference and technology questions and making suggestions using various reference tools and resources
Conducting specific research in response to requests for information
Assisting patrons in the use of everyday technology and devices
Checking materials in and out
Creating content for the Library’s social media platforms
Assisting with the planning and delivery of various outreach programs
Planning, promoting, and conducting programs for the public
Assisting with collection development, reviewing materials, and making recommendations for additions and deletions for the collection
Maintaining specialized files for public and professional use
Shelving books and reviewing shelves for proper order and identifying lost and misplaced materials
Making presentations to groups and conducting Library tours
Organizing and preparing books and materials for use in the book van
Preparing Library newsletters, booklists, guides, pathfinders, etc.
Preparing and maintaining professional communication with individuals and organizations concerning Library business and services
Gathering and maintaining records and data for use in preparing reports regarding Library activities
Responding to citizens’ questions and concerns in a courteous and timely manner
Following and enforcing all Library policies to help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for patrons
Performing other directly related duties consistent with the role and function of the position as assigned by management
Temporarily performing duties outside of normal classification in the event of a declared emergency