Library Assistant

St. Joe County Public Library•South Bend, IN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Library Assistants provide excellent service and connect community members with library services and materials. Under the direct supervision of the City Branch Assistant Manager, and with an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the Library Assistant will provide hands-on customer service. They will assist patrons with library accounts and issuing library cards, and assist patrons in person or on the phone with transactions, such as using self-checks, fax/scanning, and printing. The role involves performing circulation duties, including check-out, placing holds, collecting fines, and searching patron database. Additionally, they will connect patrons digitally by helping them use a variety of devices and technologies, perform daily departmental procedures including cash register operations, and use a variety of library technologies and software. Troubleshooting computers, copiers, and equipment is also part of the role. The Library Assistant will help patrons one-on-one with in-depth projects and topics such as completing government forms, school projects, and job applications. They will provide readers’ advisory and reference services, accurate information and directional assistance, including performing online catalog searches and locating items on the shelf. Merchandising and maintaining branch appearance, including filling displays and performing shelving responsibilities, are also key duties. Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
At least 2 years of work experience in a public library and/or retail.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as strong organizational skills.
Public service orientation and commitment to excellent and genuine customer service.
Demonstration of character and integrity in all situations while upholding SJCPL’s ethical standards.
Practical experience and proficiency with computers, including the Internet, Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Windows, Mac OS, and communication technologies.
Dependability, punctuality, trustworthiness, good attendance, and work habits.
Physical agility and strength to bend, reach, lift, and move library materials (20-25 lbs.) and to stand for long periods of time.
Ability to work efficiently and prioritize important tasks.
Ability to make decisions and work independently and interdependently.
Ability to accept and manage change.
Ability to maintain composure and overcome stress in any situation.
Ability to identify efficiencies and suggest improvements in workflow.
Ability to display high standards of ethical conduct, honesty, and integrity.
Ability to lead by example.
Ability to understand, endorse, and communicate the St. Joseph County Public Library’s policies and procedures in a courteous, friendly, and positive manner.
Ability to be enthusiastic, creative, flexible, energetic, value diversity, and possess a sense of humor.
Ability to solve problems in a professional manner with library patrons, co-workers, and Leadership.
Ability to form and maintain excellent working relationships.
Ability to manage confidential information appropriately.
Ability to work patiently and creatively with all patrons.
Ability to provide excellent customer service.
Ability to teach and instruct others on a variety of topics.
Ability to become proficient with current library technology.

Nice To Haves

Cash register experience preferred.
Spanish language skills preferred.
Stay current with new technologies.
Take charge in emergency situations if assigned as Librarian in Charge (full-time only).

Responsibilities

Provide hands-on customer service.
Assist patrons with library accounts and issuing library cards.
Assist patrons in person or on the phone with transactions, such as using self-checks, fax/scanning, and printing.
Perform circulation duties, including check-out, placing holds, collecting fines, and searching patron database.
Connect patrons digitally by helping them use a variety of devices and technologies.
Perform daily departmental procedures, including cash register operations.
Use a variety of library technologies and softwares.
Troubleshoot computers, copiers, and equipment as needed.
Help patrons one-on-one with a variety of in-depth projects and topics such as completing government forms, school projects, job applications, etc.
Provide readers’ advisory and reference services to patrons.
Provide accurate information and directional assistance for patrons, including performing online catalog searches and locating items on the shelf.
Participate in merchandising and maintaining branch appearance including filling displays and performing shelving responsibilities.
Perform other duties as assigned.