Access Services Assistant Manager

Description

Grade: 6 

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 

Reports to: Access Services Manager 

Direct Reports: None 

Last Updated: April 2025

SUMMARY OF ROLE

Under the supervision of the Access Services Manager, the Access Services Assistant Manager is responsible for facilitating superior library service to patrons by ensuring that staff are well trained, providing a high level of customer service in every encounter, and engaging with the community for a variety of programs, collections activities, and services. This position assists the Access Services Manager in training staff that facilitates the use of library services. The Access Services Assistant Manager oversees specialized tasks and projects as well as handling the daily workflow of those tasks.  

Specific responsibilities and functions will be assigned by the Access Services Manager based on experience, skills and the specific needs of the department. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• The Access Services Assistant Manager acts in place of the Access Services Manager as needed  
• Supports the Access Services department through oversight of assigned services, ensuring that all tasks are performed in the appropriate time frame, performing necessary procedural updates and managing the overall daily task workflow for the department 
• Helps to develop strategic goals, processes, and procedures for the Access Services Department
• Identifies, explores, and tracks trends to enhance department services and other activities that meet the needs of people of diverse backgrounds and interests 
• Manages assigned Collection activities and programs in service of the library community
• Engage with community through participation in community events, organizations, groups, and other initiatives to inform development of library programs, collections and services
• Assists patrons in-person, online and via phone, providing excellent service to enhance their library experience
• Act as Person-in-Charge. Interpret and enforce library policies and procedures and resolve customer concerns. Serve as team resource for Person-in-Charge related responsibilities
• Other responsibilities and duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Adept at establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with staff, vendors and the public 
• Ability to exercise effective and appropriate judgment and independent decision-making
• Ability to remain calm and resolve issues in difficult situations
• Problem solving skills to assist in determining priorities and finding timely solutions to customer and workplace concerns
• Ability to adapt and respond positively to changing work situations and environments
• Capacity to manage multiple projects simultaneously, using good judgment to prioritize tasks to solve problems and produce accurate work in a timely manner
• Discipline to work with minimal supervision and make decisions within stated guidelines 
• Familiarity with new and emerging technologies used in libraries and the ability to learn and assist others with their learning 
• Knowledge of current library theories, issues, practices, and trends 
• Proficient use of business English, spelling, punctuation, grammar, and concepts to communicate effectively in a variety of formats
• Public speaking and presentation skills 

Requirements

MINIMUM QUAIFICATIONS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Master of Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution or equivalent work experience
• At least two years of work experience in a public service environment
• Experience working in a public library preferred
• Supervisory experience preferred
• Commitment to continuous improvement and self-directed learning
• Access to regular, reliable transportation to conduct Library business-related tasks

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Primarily works in a standard, office workstation environment requiring extensive periods of sitting, using a computer keyboard, and reading a computer monitor.
• Frequently moves between different areas of the library to provide patron service 
• Occasional work outdoors (Farmer’s Market, Outreach events, etc)
• Occasional bending, lifting, reaching or push/pull up to 100 pounds and lift to 25 pounds
• Occasional travel to meetings, training, or offsite work within the La Grange service area and across Illinois 
• Opportunity for hybrid work and schedule flexibility 
• This position requires regular evening and weekend shifts