Job Description
Southwest La Plata Library District
Library Assistant Job Description
JOB TITLE
Library Assistant I
POSITION TYPE
Paraprofessional
EMPLOYMENT STATUS
Non-Exempt, Part time
15-25 hours per week
Compensation Schedule
-Range of $13.00-$18.00 per hour
-Leave earned as per SWLPLD Leave Policy in the Employee Handbook
-Base wage may increase annually, commensurate with the state minimum wage rate, merit increases, and/or cost of living adjustment increases (COLA)
REPORTS TO
Branch Manager
POSITION OVERVIEW:
This employee’s primary responsibilities are to assist with the After School Enrichment Program and provide outstanding customer service, answer questions, and provide assistance and information to library patrons. Under the direct supervision of the Branch Manager, this employee is responsible for greeting and assisting library patrons, shelving and circulating library materials, filing, and maintaining records. This employee serves as a backup to other staff covering additional shifts when possible.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES OF CUSTOMER SERVICE/MAIN SERVICE DESK
1. Serve the general public at the public service points.
· Assist patrons with circulation and borrowing processes.
· Answer questions in person, by phone, and online.
· Provide ready reference, reader's advisory service, and instruction in the use of the library to patrons.
· Provide basic reference service by utilizing the physical and virtual services available within the library (library collection, union catalog, databases, nearby libraries, Interlibrary Loan, etc.).
2. Shelve returned materials; read and straighten shelves to maintain proper order.
3. Promote all library services and programming to the general public.
4. Provide basic computer and device support and informational instruction to patrons on the use of library catalog, online databases, Internet, and downloadable media.
5. Assist with Community Room scheduling (if applicable), equipment, and proper use of the facility.
6. Help with displays and merchandising.
The duties listed above are not meant to be all-inclusive, but are intended to be merely illustrative of the nature of the work to be performed by a person in this classification. Employees may perform other related duties as established to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
1. Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively work with others by phone, by email, in person at meetings, on site, and whenever representing the library. Ability to communicate with adults, children, teens, seniors, and all members of the diverse and multicultural community.
2. Excellent computer and device skills.
3. Ability to apply common sense and understanding to carry out written and verbal instructions.
4. Ability to exercise tact, discretion, and to act confidentially with respect to patron information on behalf of the library. Remains flexible in order to accommodate the changing needs of our community.
5. Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with staff, children, adult and teen patrons, Trustees, vendors, and other parties. Displays humility in order to better work for the good of our community.
6. Analytical skills: identify problems and opportunities; review possible alternative courses of action before selecting one; utilize information and resources available when making decisions.
7. Problem-solving skills: develop feasible, realistic solutions to problems; initiate actions designed to prevent problems from occurring; refer problems to Library Director or other staff when necessary.
8. Creative decision-making: effectively evaluate or make independent decisions based upon experience, knowledge, or training.
9. Time management: ability to set priorities in order to meet assignment deadlines.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE POSITION:
This is half an office-type position with many hours spent with the public, at a desk, and on the computer and half a position with direct service to children in Kindergarten through fifth grade. There will be a great deal of time spent with library patrons, children, library staff, and outside organizations. Some travel between branches or to attend meetings throughout La Plata County and Colorado may be necessary. This can be a very physical position. Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds. Must have the ability to stand, sit, and walk for up to 60 minutes at a time. Must have ability to push and move full book carts weighing up to 50 pounds. A pleasant demeanor, especially with children, is required. Acceptable eyesight to read printed material and a computer monitor and to operate office equipment. Acceptable hearing to communicate with others in person or through telephonic means. Ability to withstand extensive VDT exposure.
Note: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
ENVIRONMENTAL/WORKING CONDITIONS:
Indoor, playground, and Library work environment; extensive contact with the public and vendors.
Part time position working an average of 15-25 hours per week, which will often involve evening hours.
EQUIPMENT USED:
Computer, calculator, copy machine, fax machine, telephone, and other standard office equipment.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Minimum Requirements:
General understanding of library services
Pleasant disposition
Minimum Preferred:
Customer Service Experience
High School Diploma or GED
Benefits & Additional Compensation Info
Part time employees are eligible for partial medical insurance coverage by the district and will accrue sick time depending on the number of regular hours worked.
The Community
Fort Lewis Mesa is a rural area with a strong sense of community. The FLM library is a hybrid library which serves the Elementary School as well as the public of the community.
HR Info
Send your resume and cover letter to Chris Conrad at chris.conrad.swlpld@gmail.com. Call 588-3331 ext. 3802 with any questions.