Temporary Library Associate

Sno-Isle Libraries•Oak Harbor, WA

3d•$31 - $43•Onsite

About The Position

The Temporary Library Associate provides skilled paraprofessional library support services at the Oak Harbor and Freeland Libraries. The role supports the effective operation of library services, spaces, and resources that are representative of diverse cultures and perspectives, intentionally inclusive, and accessible to everyone. Duties include customer service, circulation support, basic reference assistance, account registration and technology support, processing materials, answering phones, and serving as the person in charge of a building when needed. The assignment is temporary for up to ten months. The position is scheduled to work at the Oak Harbor Library from December through the end of February, then at the Freeland Library from March through the end of August. It is expected to work 40 hours per week. The Oak Harbor schedule includes one to two evenings per week and alternating Saturdays and Sundays; the typical Freeland schedule is Sunday through Thursday. Assignments may be changed with notice, and travel between work sites may be required as staffing needs dictate. 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 incumbent may provide work direction to coworkers or volunteers as a lead person. The role is represented by AFSCME Council 2. This temporary position is not eligible for PERS participation. The successful external applicant will be released from employment at the end of the assignment; an internal applicant will return to their regular position. The work is primarily indoors in a generally accessible, safe environment. It involves identifying and organizing library materials, handling and moving materials weighing up to 35 pounds, moving book carts, using computers, and remaining stationary at a workstation for extended periods. Travel to different sites in varied weather and traffic conditions may be required. The employee must be able to drive with a valid Washington State driver's license or make independent transportation arrangements.

Requirements

Two years of experience providing direct customer service.
College-level education or specialized training, such as library science, presenting programs, or another profession-based subject area; the posting states that required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be acquired through a combination of education and experience.
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 customers' needs and interests.
Knowledge of collection development policies and procedures, library resources, programs, and services.
Knowledge of alpha and numeric systems for arranging library materials and basic automated bibliographic identification.
Strong customer service, organization, and attention-to-detail skills.
Ability to uphold equity, diversity, and inclusion principles and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
Ability to handle and resolve disruptive behavior effectively.
Ability to work independently, set priorities, work cooperatively, and maintain effective interpersonal relationships with the public and coworkers.
Ability to operate relevant computer systems and 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; frequently move materials weighing up to 35 pounds and move book carts for extended periods; and use a computer, potentially remaining stationary for extended periods.
Ability to travel to various sites in varied weather and traffic conditions, by driving with a valid Washington State driver's license or making independent transportation arrangements.

Responsibilities

Provide basic reference and information service, helping customers use library facilities, equipment, resources, and services; refer complex questions to a Librarian or appropriate staff member.
Provide courteous and efficient customer service while performing circulation desk tasks.
Create and present programs for 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.
Help customers resolve technical problems and maintain and troubleshoot community library equipment.
Maintain collections using reports and data, including weeding items based on condition and reallocating materials.
Perform other library support services, including opening and closing buildings and keeping the library neat, clean, and orderly.
Serve as the person in charge of a community library when other supervisory staff or the building manager are absent, when designated.
Travel between work sites as staffing needs require.
Make public presentations as assigned; prepare correspondence and reports; train new staff as needed; attend assigned meetings, trainings, and workshops; assist with special projects; and participate on committees or teams as assigned.
May serve as the volunteer coordinator of 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
Medical coverage for employees working 20 or more hours per week
Vision coverage for employees working 20 or more hours per week
Retirement savings for employees working 20 or more hours per week, subject to the stated exclusion from PERS for this temporary position
Life insurance for employees working 20 or more hours per week
Flexible healthcare and daycare spending accounts for employees working 20 or more hours per week