Overview:
Library Assistant — Collection Care and Circulation (13-15 hours/week)
The Alma Public Library is seeking a detail- oriented, motivated, and courteous individual as a part-time Library Assistant for collection care and circulation.
Join our fun and friendly staff as we promote literacy, build community, and encourage lifelong learning at our little library with lots of heart, located right next to lock and dam Number 4 on the Mississippi River in Alma, Wisconsin
Job Description(See detailed job description below):
The successful candidate will be responsible for cataloging, preparing, and repairing library materials for circulation; managing interlibrary loans; maintaining an accurate database of library holdings; providing customer assistance at the circulation desk; and assisting patrons with basic technical support, such as printing from emails or making copies. Additional responsibilities include shelving, some light cleaning, and other supporting aspects of the day-to-day operation of the library under the general supervision of the library director.
This 13-15 hour per week position is for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings and early afternoons, with some flexibility. Pay starts at $15.00 per hour.
Qualifications
The successful candidate will demonstrate enthusiasm for library services and be able to work both independently and collaboratively.
Required
- Basic computer skills
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Wiliness and ability to learn new technologies and library practices
Previous cataloging and/or public service experience is a plus. The successful applicant will be required to undergo a drug screening and a background check. View the complete job description on our website at almalibrary.org.
Detailed Job Description:
Library Assistant – Collection Care and Circulation (13-15 hours/week)
City of Alma, Alma Public Library
Job Summary
A Library Assistant works directly and indirectly with library customers (patrons) and materials. Responsibilities include assisting patrons with basic circulation and technology-related needs, shelving library materials, light cleaning, and other supporting aspects of the day-to-day operation of the library. The Library Assistant works under the general supervision of the Library Director.
Responsibilities specific to Collection Care include:
- Cataloging materials.
- Preparing library items for circulation, including labeling, and covering books.
- Displaying new books in a timely manner.
- Repairing damaged items.
- Processing inter-library loans.
- Maintaining an accurate database of library holdings
- Maintaining supplies for circulation, collection processing, and materials repair by informing the Library Director of needed supplies.
- Placing phone calls, including reminders, notifications, and service inquiries.
- Performing light housekeeping and cleaning duties such as vacuuming, dusting, and sanitizing commonly used areas.
Other Essential Duties
- Respecting and maintaining privacy and confidentiality of all patron information.
- Providing courteous customer service to library patrons of a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and abilities: greeting patrons; listening and responding to needs; providing patrons with information, services, or items they are seeking; utilizing policies and procedures as guides to find solutions.
- Performing circulation procedures (using Sierra, WISCAT, or other designated software): checking materials in and out; processing holds and interlibrary loans; registering new users and updating patron records when needed.
- Performing other circulation tasks including monitoring incoming and outgoing materials for wear, tear, and cleaning needs; checking materials to account for all components (ex: DVDs, Audiobooks, and games).
- Assisting patrons with reference and/or technology questions, referring advanced questions to the Library Director as appropriate.
- Monitoring the computer area and providing patrons with basic technology assistance, including computer, digital materials (Libby), printer/scanner/fax, etc.
- Shelving and organizing books and other library materials.
- Assisting with collection management; assessing and withdrawing materials as directed.
- Recording statistical information such as patron attendance and technology use.
- Promoting a positive, inclusive, and professional work environment, directing and communicating concerns to the Library Director.
- Assisting the Library Director in promoting and facilitating programs and events offered through the library such as summer/winter reading, books sales, or other special events, which may occur outside of regular work hours.
- Occasionally running local errands for the library.
- Other duties as assigned by the Library Director.
Expectations:
- Dress neatly and appropriately.
- Arrive on time and maintain scheduled hours.
- Notify the Library Director in advance if unable to work scheduled time.
- Follow the rules and expected behaviors in the library, including adhering to all library policies and procedures.
- Ability to make decisions without direct supervision.
- Ability to set priorities and meet assigned deadlines, balance demands and maintain a positive public service attitude.
- Attend occasional training meetings.
Physical demands of the position:
- Bending/twisting and reaching.
- Fingerings; keyboarding, writing, filing, sorting, shelving, and processing.
- Processing, picking up and shelving library items.
- Lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds.
- Pushing and pulling loaded book carts up to 150 pounds.
- Sitting, standing, walking, stooping kneeling and crouching.
- Reaching down to the ground and up to shelving heights or above, sometimes with the aid of a footstool or ladder.
- Reading type, font size 12 or smaller, on item labels.
- Observing patrons in need of assistance from a distance of 20 feet or further.
Required Technology Skills:
- Basic knowledge of computer operation/trouble shooting of all technology devices owned by library.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Proficiency in or willingness to learn library specific software such as WISCAT, Sierra, Libby, and others as needed.
- Willingness and ability to learn new technology skills.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Ability to alphabetize and learn to sort items using the Dewy decimal system.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to set priorities, balance demands, and maintain a positive public service attitude.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Availability and flexibility to work between 9-2:30 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with opening and/or closing responsibilities, and possibly periodic future Saturday short shifts.
Desired Additional Qualifications:
- Enthusiasm for library services.
- Previous customer service experience.
- Previous cataloging experience.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills.
How to Apply:
Submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references to Laura Toone at almapl@wrlsweb.org, or drop off application materials in person at the library.
The successful applicant will be required to undergo a drug screening and a background check.
Contact: Laura Toone (608) 685-3823/almapl@wrlsweb.org
Job pays $15/hour, 13-15 hours/week
Applications will be considered until the position is filled.