Library Specialist

Village of Germantown•Germantown Community Library, WI

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Library Specialist provides first-line customer service to patrons at the Circulation Desk at Germantown Community Library. The position processes returned materials, assists other Circulation Team positions, and completes special tasks assigned by the Circulation Manager, Assistant Director, or Library Director. The role averages 15.75 hours per week, typically across 2–3 shifts per week, including 1–2 Saturday shifts per month. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. The starting wage is $15.00 per hour. The position supports circulation services and daily library operations by helping patrons with transactions, accounts, equipment, rooms, and other resources. It requires courteous, responsive service to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, and a commitment to maintaining a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment. The work is generally performed indoors in the library or office, often in public areas and while balancing assigned tasks with patron service.

Requirements

At least 18 years old.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to work 1–2 evenings per week and 1–2 Saturdays per month, with flexibility to meet library operational needs.
Working knowledge of basic computer applications, including internet browsers, Microsoft Office or equivalent, email, social media platforms, and Canva, or ability to learn these tools.
Knowledge of customer service principles and practices.
Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
Cash-handling and point-of-sale transaction skills.
Basic computer operation and data-entry skills.
Ability to communicate effectively in English, verbally and in writing.
Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a public-facing environment.
Ability to understand, follow, and appropriately apply Library, Village, and System policies, procedures, and practices using sound judgment.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of patron information.
Attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to work independently and contribute positively in a collaborative team environment.
Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and work with minimal supervision.
Ability to work efficiently under pressure, handle stressful situations, navigate conflicts, and escalate concerns to management when appropriate.
Ability to maintain regular attendance, punctuality, and dependability, with flexibility to meet library needs.
Ability to engage warmly, respectfully, and professionally with patrons and coworkers.
Ability to stand for periods of 1–2 hours; sit, walk, crouch, bend, twist, and reach; and occasionally climb stairs or use step stools.
Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle, feel, and operate objects, tools, or controls, including typing, writing, filing, shelving, and handling or processing library materials.
Ability to communicate effectively in person and by telephone.
Ability to visually review printed materials and computer screens, including prolonged use of a computer monitor.
Ability to frequently lift or move materials weighing up to 40 pounds and push or pull carts or objects weighing up to 80 pounds on wheels.

Nice To Haves

Experience in libraries, education, museums, retail, hospitality, or customer service.

Responsibilities

Check out and renew materials for patrons.
Add and update patron accounts and perform patron record maintenance.
Charge and collect payments for fines, fees, and purchases.
Process returned materials, including materials returned in book drops.
Provide customer service in person, by phone, and by email, and direct patrons to appropriate staff when needed.
Assist patrons with checkout of library equipment available at the Circulation Desk.
Assist patrons with registration and access to study rooms, community meeting rooms, curbside pickup, self-checkout, and other public resources.
Receive donated materials.
Provide courteous, knowledgeable, and responsive service to patrons of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
Create and maintain a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment for patrons accessing library services and materials.
Assist patrons with basic library services, circulation transactions, account inquiries, and general use of library resources.
Support promotion of library services and programs, including social media content or department highlights as assigned.
Perform cashiering duties, including cash and credit card transactions.
Use library systems, computers, and office equipment to complete daily tasks and support library operations.
Provide backup support for Library Page I, Library Page II, or Technical Services positions as needed.
Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned.