Substitute Library Associate

Kitsap Regional Library•Bremerton, WA

27d•$25 - $26

About The Position

Kitsap Regional Library is seeking individuals who are passionate about providing excellent library service and developing strong patron relationships while assisting patrons with research and reader's advisory. This position provides program support and works in collaboration with branch staff and the reference team. This position reports to the Branch Manager. Applications for this posting will be kept on file through March 31st, 2026 at which time we may repost the role. When we have an opening for a Substitute Library Associate, applications will be reviewed for all who indicated an interest in working at that particular branch. This is substitute position and does not have a guaranteed number of hours. Substitutes fill in for regular employees on an as needed basis. GENERAL DESCRIPTION Under general supervision, while providing excellent customer service, a Library Associate performs a wide range of information and circulation services. Typical duties include staffing the service desk, assisting patrons with questions, supporting programming, resolving patron code of conduct issues, and acting as designated site support in the absence of branch management. This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by Washington Public Employees Association/ UFCW 365.

Requirements

Associates degree required and a minimum of two years' experience in customer service including a minimum of one year in frontline library service or a position related to the duties of the classification. Additional experience related to the duties of the position may substitute for the educational requirement on a year-for-year basis.
A resume and cover letter are required for all positions and may be uploaded or copy/pasted and submitted with your application.
Ability to sort and file alphanumerically and to perform basic mathematical computations, including ability to navigate the Dewey Decimal System.
Ability to demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills with a diverse audience.
Ability to navigate library resources and patron accounts using Polaris, the Integrated Library System (ILS).
Ability to access and utilize staff Intranet resources.
Ability to follow detailed written or verbal procedural instructions accurately, with willingness to seek clarification.
Ability to acquire and effectively implement knowledge of library policies and procedures and to use independent judgment to resolve circulation and patron problems within established guidelines.
Ability to demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills with a diverse audience.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, patrons, user groups, community organizations, volunteer groups and to serve the public courteously.
Ability to operate standard office equipment, perform required data entry proficiently and utilize computer software and specialized programs.
Ability to work a schedule that may change periodically, including evenings and weekends.
Ability to work collaboratively to create and maintain an inclusive environment where staff and patrons are respected and feel safe, supported and valued.
Provide excellent customer service by showing sensitivity to cultural differences and diverse backgrounds when interacting with patrons, volunteers, and co-workers.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
Knowledge and support of Kitsap Regional Library's principles of intellectual freedom.
Knowledge and support of Kitsap Regional Library's policies and procedures.
Effectively work both independently, with limited direction or supervision, as well as within a team.
Flexibility to adapt to rapidly changing information, technology, work procedures and library services.
Maintain confidentiality in dealing with patron and/or employee records.

Responsibilities

Provide welcoming customer assistance, answer phones, respond to digital queries, check library materials in and out, register customers for library cards, order materials from other library locations, and troubleshoot patron accounts.
Assist patrons with inquiries and reader's advisory services, computer use, the library's public catalog and available digital or electronic resources. Research resource materials to respond to patron needs; refer patrons to a Librarian or other resources, as needed.
Assist patrons in utilizing physical equipment such as self-checkout machines, public computers, printers, and copier/fax machines as well as digital tools such as the Library catalog, electronic collections, email and Office products. Elevate technical service issues via work orders.
Assist patrons in resolving concerns or complaints regarding the availability of facilities, adjusting fines and fee disputes and related patron concerns.
Perform designated site support (DSS) duties including, ensuring branch opening and closing procedures are completed, prioritizing branch tasks to maintain safe and efficient operations, communicating with offsite contact regarding changes to staff schedules, and acting as point person in the event of an incident or emergency.
Follow policies, procedures, and established guidelines to respond to customer service, building, or safety issues with the support of the branch team and guidance from the Branch Manager or designee.
May support and/or implement a variety of library programs, services, and materials.
Support circulation duties include shelving library materials, processing shipment, pulling holds, and emptying book drops.
Assist with collection maintenance activities, periodicals processing, design of displays and other library promotional and informational materials as assigned.
Implement and deliver training on circulation, shelving, branch processes, and/or operational tasks.
Attend branch meetings, workshops, and systemwide training sessions.
Serve as a resource for community and special population groups, specifically supporting branch programming and outreach efforts.
Support volunteers in the library, including Friends of the Library (FOL) and Puget Sound Genealogy Society (PSGS), as assigned.
Represent the Library at community events.
Maintain a clean, welcoming, and safe library environment and report issues via work orders.
Perform other related duties as assigned.