Library Assistant

St. Joe County Public Library•South Bend, IN

22h•$16 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

The Library Assistant provides excellent service and connects community members with library services and materials at the Western Branch Library. Under the direct supervision of the City Branch Assistant Manager, the role supports patrons with circulation, technology, reference, and general library services while maintaining a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. This is a full-time position of 40 hours per week; partial days, evenings, and weekends are required. The position involves hands-on customer service, helping patrons use library resources and technology, carrying out daily departmental procedures, and maintaining the branch’s appearance. The Library Assistant may also take charge during emergency situations when assigned as Librarian in Charge.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 2 years of work experience in a public library and/or retail.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and strong organizational skills.
Public service orientation and commitment to excellent, genuine customer service.
Demonstrate character and integrity and uphold SJCPL’s ethical standards.
Practical experience and proficiency with computers, including the Internet, Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Windows, Mac OS, and communication technologies; stay current with new technologies.
Dependability, punctuality, trustworthiness, good attendance, and good work habits.
Physical agility and strength to bend, reach, lift, and move library materials weighing 20–25 lbs., and to stand for long periods.
Work efficiently, prioritize tasks, and make decisions and work both independently and interdependently.
Accept and manage change, maintain composure, and overcome stress.
Identify efficiencies and suggest workflow improvements.
Display high standards of ethical conduct, honesty, and integrity, and lead by example.
Understand, endorse, and communicate library policies and procedures in a courteous, friendly, and positive manner.
Be enthusiastic, creative, flexible, energetic, value diversity, and possess a sense of humor.
Solve problems professionally with patrons, coworkers, and Leadership.
Form and maintain excellent working relationships.
Manage confidential information appropriately.
Work patiently and creatively with all patrons.
Teach and instruct others on a variety of topics.
Become proficient with current library technology.

Nice To Haves

Cash register experience preferred.
Spanish language skills preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist patrons with library accounts and issuing library cards.
Help patrons in person or by phone with transactions, including self-checks, faxing, scanning, and printing.
Perform circulation duties, including checking out materials, placing holds, collecting fines, and searching the patron database.
Help patrons use a variety of digital devices and technologies.
Perform daily departmental procedures, including cash register operations.
Use library technologies and software, and troubleshoot computers, copiers, and other equipment as needed.
Provide one-on-one assistance with in-depth projects and topics such as government forms, school projects, and job applications.
Provide readers’ advisory and reference services.
Provide accurate information and directional assistance, conduct online catalog searches, and help patrons locate items on the shelves.
Participate in merchandising and maintaining the branch’s appearance, including filling displays and shelving materials.
Take charge in emergency situations when assigned as Librarian in Charge (full-time only).
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision health plans.
Employer-sponsored pension plan, fully vested after 10 years of service.
Public Employees’ Retirement Fund and Hoosier S.T.A.R.T 457(b) employee-funded retirement plans.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
Employer-sponsored life/AD&D and long-term disability insurance.
Employee Assistance Program.
Tuition reimbursement.
128 vacation hours (16 days) annually.
80 sick hours (10 days) annually.
10 paid holidays.