Library Information Assistant - Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library

The New York Public Library•New York, NY

30d•Onsite

About The Position

The Andrew Heiskell Library is a branch of the New York Public Library and serves as the Regional NLS Library for the five boroughs of New York City and Long Island. It provides access to talking books, magazines, and braille materials for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or otherwise physically unable to read standard print. The library has a large collection of titles for all ages, including a significant collection of braille sheet music and Spanish-language titles. The Heiskell Library Reader Services Team processes applications for National Library Service, offers reader advisory services, and provides reference service via a call center. They also offer community programming focused on enrichment and resources for New Yorkers of all abilities. In addition to specialized services, Heiskell Library functions as a traditional neighborhood branch library for the Chelsea/Flatiron neighborhood, offering circulating and reference materials, public computer terminals, quiet study spaces, and holds pickup. The Library is seeking a Library Information Assistant to serve patrons of all ages, with a focus on children, families, and older adults. This role involves assisting with information queries, providing reference services, and supporting outreach and programming activities. The ideal candidate is a creative customer service expert passionate about helping people explore resources and discover new interests.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required, preferably with a strong, well-rounded liberal arts background
Successfully demonstrated public service experience with the ability to work well with a diverse patronage
Demonstrated interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
Successfully demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
Appreciation of literature and desire to encourage reading in others
Strong organization and planning skills, including the ability to perform multiple projects or tasks simultaneously
Strong computer and other related technology skills, including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google applications, PCs, Macs and e-reader devices
Demonstrated knowledge of computer services including on-line searching, social media and reference resources and databases

Nice To Haves

Experience creating, conducting and/or participating in community training, programming and outreach preferred

Responsibilities

Provides circulation/reference service and instruction to library patrons of all ages using print, media and digital resources
Answers questions from the public in person, over the telephone and electronically
Performs community outreach to promote and increase public participation and use of library services
Assists in planning and delivering library programs for children, teens and/or adults
Instructs patrons on the use of the Internet, computer applications and other Library services
Assists with fines & fees management, collection development/weeding, reserves and opening/closing procedures
Ensures patrons follow library policies and procedures
May take responsibility for the facility, staff and operations in the absence of the Library Manager
Performs other related duties as required