Library Associate

Sno-Isle Libraries • Coupeville, WA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Library Associate performs skilled paraprofessional library support services at one or more community libraries or Library on Wheels. The position contributes to the Library District’s effective operation by providing library services, spaces, and resources that represent diverse cultures and perspectives and are intentionally inclusive and accessible to everyone. At the Coupeville Library, the part-time associate provides general reference and circulation services and may be in charge of the building when needed. Excellent customer service and support for equity, diversity, and inclusion are valued.

The current schedule is a two-week rotation. Week 1: Sunday, 12:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.; Monday, 1:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.; and a Friday five-hour shift with exact hours varying. Week 2: Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Work schedules may include morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend hours. The successful candidate may need to adapt to future schedule and location changes based on library needs. The position is part of an AFSCME bargaining unit.

The role may involve travel between work sites as staffing needs require. Most work takes place in a generally accessible, safe indoor environment. The incumbent may need to move materials weighing up to 35 pounds, move book carts for extended periods, remain stationary at a workstation, and travel to various sites in different weather and traffic conditions. Travel requires a valid Washington State driver's license or independent transportation arrangements.

Requirements

• Knowledge, skills, and abilities may be acquired through a combination of experience and education, including college-level education or specialized training such as library science, presenting programs, or other profession-based subject areas.
• Two years of experience providing direct customer service.
• Thorough knowledge of established web-based databases and techniques for searching and accessing those resources.
• Thorough knowledge of established practices and procedures for an integrated library system (ILS).
• Thorough knowledge of library policies and procedures for determining customer needs and interests.
• Knowledge of collection development policies and procedures; library resources, programs, and services; and systems for arranging library materials and basic automated bibliographic identification.
• Strong customer service, organizational, and attention-to-detail skills.
• Ability to uphold equity, diversity, and inclusion principles in the workplace and community, and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
• Ability to handle and resolve disruptive behavior effectively.
• Ability to work independently, set priorities, cooperate, and maintain effective interpersonal relationships with the public and coworkers.
• Ability to operate relevant computer systems and hardware and software, including Microsoft Word and Excel, electronic databases, email, and Internet navigation, as well as other office equipment and security systems.
• Ability to drive with a valid Washington State driver’s license or make independent arrangements for transportation to work sites.

Responsibilities

• Provide general, basic reference and information service by helping customers use library facilities, equipment, resources, and services; refer complex readers’ advisory and reference questions to a Librarian or appropriate staff member.
• Perform circulation desk tasks and provide courteous, efficient customer service.
• Create and present programs for customer groups as assigned.
• Develop program materials, including reading lists, promotional displays, and presentation materials.
• Train customers in basic library skills, including using public computers, catalogs and reference computers, the Internet, and devices.
• Help customers resolve technical problems or issues.
• Maintain and troubleshoot equipment used in a community library.
• Maintain collections using reports and data, including weeding materials for condition and reallocating library materials.
• Perform other library support services, including opening and closing buildings and keeping the library neat, clean, and orderly.
• Serve as the person in charge of the community library when designated in the absence of supervisory staff or a building manager.
• Travel between work sites as staffing needs require.
• Make public presentations as assigned and prepare correspondence and reports.
• Train new staff as needed; attend assigned meetings, trainings, and workshops; assist with special projects; and participate on committees or teams as assigned.
• May coordinate volunteers at a community library and perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Sick leave
• Vacation leave
• Paid holidays
• Dental coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Employer-paid ORCA Passport card
• Employees working 20 or more hours per week also receive medical and vision coverage, retirement savings, life insurance, and flexible healthcare and daycare spending accounts.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed