LIBRARY ASSISTANT
#2202
General Characteristics:
A Library Assistant is responsible for enhancing learning by providing efficient and courteous circulation services to students, faculty, staff and members of the community. Work requires well-developed customer service and interpersonal skills, tact, patience, and the ability to solve problems and pay attention to detail. Must be able to retrieve and transport books and other library materials.
Examples of Work:
Provide a variety of services to library patrons at the public service counter. Answer questions concerning Library circulation policies and procedures; provide directional assistance to library patrons. Assist patrons in the use of the library’s online catalog and databases. Open and close facility. Retrieve and reshelf library materials; instruct patrons in the use of microfilm reader/ printers and other equipment. Provide film booking services for faculty; Answer the telephone and refer calls to appropriate department;; respond to questions about the collection; respond to patrons' complaints; resolve billing questions. Process periodicals and other library materials; maintain course reserves; Process interlibrary loan requests.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of and skill in the application of library procedures in circulation services; knowledge of library automation systems; knowledge and skill in applying the procedures of the OCLC system; knowledge of and skill in customer service; ability to work under pressure; ability to provide services in a pleasant, courteous and helpful manner; ability to communicate clearly and effectively orally and in writing; ability to operate library equipment such as videotape players, microfilm reader/printers, book detection system, typewriter, audio-cassette player, tape duplicator, and copiers; ability to use perform circulation services using computers and online library system; ability to move around the Library and retrieve requested books and materials; ability to perform highly detail-oriented library procedures and related paperwork; ability to transport books and materials weighing up to 20 pounds; ability to work safely.
Supervision:
Reports to the Library Director. A Lead Library Assistant assigns tasks, provides priorities and is available to answer questions or troubleshoot problems on a daily basis. After an initial orientation period, work is performed independently according to Library policies and procedures gained from previous experience. Positions in this class may assign tasks, train, mentor and monitor student assistants and other temporary staff.
Minimum Qualifications:
High school graduation or equivalent is required. Associate of Arts degree in a relevant field is preferred. Six months’ experience working in a library, or equivalent experience using a library for research purposes, is required. Experience in a public service area of the library is preferred. The experience should include familiarity with online catalogs and other library resources, automated library systems and circulation procedures.
Equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered qualifying.
7/93; Revised 7/02