Library Associate

Sno-Isle Libraries • Coupeville, WA

6d • $31 - $43 • Onsite

About The Position

The Library Associate performs skilled paraprofessional library support services at one or more community libraries or Library on Wheels. The role contributes to effective Library District operations by providing library services, spaces, and resources that represent diverse cultures and perspectives and are intentionally inclusive and accessible. 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 highly valued.

The current schedule follows a two-week rotation: Week 1 includes Sunday, 12:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.; Monday, 1:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.; and a five-hour Friday shift with exact hours varying. Week 2 includes Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Schedules may include morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend hours, and 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 position typically reports to a Library Manager, Assistant Library Manager, or Library Circulation Supervisor. Direct supervision is not normally part of the work, though the associate may be designated as a lead to provide work direction to coworkers or volunteers. The role is based primarily in an accessible, safe indoor environment and may require travel between work sites and to various sites in varied weather and traffic conditions.

Requirements

• Knowledge, skills, and abilities may be acquired through a combination of education and experience, including college-level education or specialized training such as library science, program presentation, or another profession-based subject area.
• 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 alpha and numeric systems for arranging library materials, as well as 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 to 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, 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 identify and organize library materials using small-print numbers and alphabetical characters; scan and inspect materials, including opening media cases; move objects or materials weighing up to 35 pounds; and move carts of materials around the building for extended periods.
• Ability to operate a computer and remain stationary at one workstation for extended periods.
• Ability to drive and hold a valid Washington State driver's license or make independent arrangements for transportation to travel to various sites.

Responsibilities

• Provide 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 programming for all customer groups as assigned.
• Develop program materials, including reading lists, promotional displays, and presentation materials.
• Train customers in basic library skills, including use of public computers, catalogs, reference computers, the Internet, and devices.
• Assist customers with technical problems and maintain and troubleshoot community library equipment.
• Maintain collections using reports and data, including weeding materials based on condition and reallocating library materials.
• Perform other library support services, including opening and closing buildings and keeping the library neat, clean, and orderly.
• Take charge of a community library when designated, in the absence of other supervisory staff or the 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 assigned committees or teams.
• May coordinate volunteers at a community library.
• 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: Associate degree