Student Library Assistant

Brock University

3d•$18•Onsite

About The Position

After successful completion of orientation and training, the Student Library Assistant provides assistance with the circulation of library materials; informational, directional, basic research assistance; and copying/printing services to Library/Learning Commons' users at the Ask Us desk. Depending on departmental needs, the incumbent may work a variety of days/shifts including day, evening, or weekend. There will be approximately 19.5 hours of work per week between April 20 and July 18, with shifts as follows: Monday-Thursday 4:30PM - 8:15PM Saturday 12:45PM - 5:15PM Training shifts during the weeks of April 20-May1 will have different hours then regular set weekly shifts, and will work around availability.

Requirements

The position is open to currently registered full-time Brock University undergraduate students who have completed their first year.
Customer Service experience is required.
Familiarity with the Library catalogue, website, and electronic databases to which the library subscribes;
Understanding of and adherence to library policies, procedures, and best practices;
Strong computer literacy and technical aptitude in order to assist users in navigating the university and library web pages, basic troubleshooting with equipment (laptops, photocopiers, desktop computers, projector), use of email and Microsoft Office;
Ability to count and handle cash;
Working knowledge of circulation software functionalities, as well as circulation policies and procedures;
Ability to learn independently and keep pace with the changing information environment;
Ability to maintain confidentiality of patron information.
Successful applicants must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
Punctuality, excellent attendance, reliability and flexibility.
Strong customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills;
Active listening, oral, and written communication and reference interview skills;
Flexibility and sensitivity to meet the needs of a diverse user population;
Ability to work independently and as part of a team;
Demonstrate enthusiasm and a strong proactive commitment to customer service.
Strong problem solving skills; ability to use good judgement & discretion;
Ability to organize work and establish priorities;
Ability to remain focused and calm to resolve problems and defuse potential confrontation;

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in a peer-helping-peer role (e.g. SMART Start, Information Desk, Peer Assistant, Teaching Assistant, Residence Life Staff, Career Assistant, etc.) is preferred.
Previous library experience would be an asset.
Knowledge of and ability to provide basic information regarding the use of the Library/Learning Commons is an asset;
Knowledge of the Library of Congress classification system;
General working knowledge of the responsibilities of library departments and library staff, in addition to the services offered by Learning Commons' partners and other university units;

Responsibilities

Front-desk services Act as the first point of contact for all users by responding to inquiries in-person, online, or by telephone at the Ask Us desk;
Assist users in locating, using, and borrowing library material, including retrieval, distribution, check-out, check-in, shelving, and shelf-reading of material;
Maintain and update patron system records accurately, including collecting payments (using point-of-sale software), and/or creating temporary user accounts for visitors;
Explain and administer library policies in a firm but courteous manner;
Provide support to users to operate equipment, such as computers/printers/ photocopiers, self-check machine; troubleshoot problems; refer to Library Systems and Technologies staff as necessary;
Process photocopy requests;
Accurately handle payments for fees/ fines, supplies, printing vouchers via cash, debit, and credit;
Accurately handle payments using the Point of Sale System.
Participate in relevant training opportunities; monitor and compose email correspondence;
Circulate through the building as scheduled to record occupancy counts; to identify and report maintenance and security issues.
Assist with the response to occasional building fire and security alarms and related building maintenance emergencies.
Provides basic reference or information service: giving general information about the catalogue and access to online databases and other Library and Learning Commons resources and services.
Provides referrals to appropriate service points.
Refers user to Access Services' colleagues or liaison librarian for further assistance and instruction.
Provides directional/reception service, responding to questions about internal library and university departments/locations.
Collects user statistics, as necessary.
Guides users in using the University's web pages (ex. registration, course software).
Requires an ability to navigate the Library's and University's web pages and good communication skills to explain and demonstrate these functions.
Provides technical assistance and learning support to users (ex. MyLibrary Account, reserves, room bookings).
This may include workshops that are delivered in the Learning Commons classrooms.
Promotes upcoming workshops and events of the Library/Learning Commons;
Consults with colleagues, senior staff and/or immediate supervisor as necessary when unusual queries/issues arise.
All other related duties as required and/or assigned by the Manager, User Services & Engagement.