Library Assistant

KANSAS CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY • Kansas City, MO

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Library Assistant provides quality library services under the immediate supervision of the Plaza Evening and Weekend Supervisor. The role helps patrons access library collections and services, provides basic technical support for library technology, and assists with collection maintenance. This part-time position is based at the Plaza Branch in Kansas City, Missouri, and is scheduled for 20 hours per week: Fridays from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The pay rate is $17.07 per hour.

The assistant performs circulation and registration tasks, supports patrons using library resources and technology, handles telephone inquiries, and processes requests for materials, including Interlibrary Loan requests. The Plaza Branch also provides voter registration assistance and notary services. Work takes place in a shared workspace with coworkers and patrons from a diverse socio-economic community. Duties may change, and reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified employees with disabilities to perform essential functions, absent undue hardship.

Requirements

• High school diploma or G.E.D.
• Demonstrated ability to serve the public and work effectively with customers of all ages.
• Demonstrated ability to be a team player.
• Ability to learn library operations, services, policies, and computer procedures.
• Uses decision-making skills that reflect values-based principles.
• Ability to access materials on shelves overhead or below waist level and work at a customer-service counter.
• Demonstrated basic computer skills and willingness to learn and keep current with emerging technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to follow oral and/or written instructions.
• Ability to effectively communicate in and understand English.
• Many duties require standing and bending; ability to lift up to 15 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• At least 3 years of customer service experience is preferred.
• Proficiency in non-English languages used in Jackson County, Missouri, including Spanish, American Sign Language, Vietnamese, French, Arabic, or Swahili, receives additional consideration.

Responsibilities

• Provide circulation and registration services, including checking materials in and out, issuing library cards, collecting fines and charges, updating customer records, explaining circulation policies, making computer inquiries, and processing reserve requests.
• Maintain courteous and effective working relationships with library patrons and staff.
• Assist patrons with library databases, computer equipment, and software.
• Answer telephone calls courteously, identify oneself and the location, and direct callers to appropriate staff when unable to assist.
• Lift, route, and shelve library materials from book bins and shelves; materials may weigh up to 35 pounds.
• Process patron material requests and prepare and send Interlibrary Loan requests.
• Perform other related or assigned duties, such as Kid’s café, teen lock-ins, notary services, and supporting library programs or activities.
• Provide voter registration assistance and notary services at the Plaza Branch.
• Organize daily work routines effectively for the location.

What This Job Offers

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