Public Services Associate

SUMMARY OF ROLE

Under the supervision of the Public Services Manager, the Public Services Associate facilitates superior patron service by serving as the first point of contact for the community primarily in the Youth Services area. This position will be cross trained to cover the Teen and Adult Services area as well. The Public Services Associate serves as an active representative of the library, providing a welcoming atmosphere in person, virtually or via the phone. The Public Services Associate supports departmental operations through the daily workflow of desk coverage, limited collection management, programming and core library tasks.

Specific skills, functions and projects will be assigned by the Public Services Manager based on experience, skills and the department's specific needs.

Schedule:

Monday: 9am-1pm

Tuesday: 9am-1pm

Thursday: 1pm- 5pm

1 Saturday and Sunday per month

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• Assist patrons with their informational, entertainment and educational needs while providing excellent patron service.
• Respond to patron requests using available resources, including referrals to other agencies or departments where appropriate.
• Guide patrons in the use of library resources, including resolution of technology issues related to library equipment.
• Contributes to the patron experience through conducting programs, following guidelines for educational and entertainment needs.
• Ensures that public areas of library are safe and organized, and that displays are refreshed and appealing.
• Assist with assigned departmental projects, reporting and activities.
• Promote awareness, interest and use of the library’s collection and services during interactions with patrons.
• May assist with collection development and maintenance.
• Other responsibilities and duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Basic knowledge of Library-related services, technology and programs.
• Basic skill in operating a personal computer, PC applications, electronic resources and technology commonly used in public libraries.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors and the public.
• Proficient use of business English, spelling, punctuation, grammar, and concepts to communicate effectively in a variety of formats.
• Consistently exercises effective and appropriate judgement and independent decision-making
• Proficient problem solving skills to assist in determining priority workflow and finding timely solutions to patron and workplace concerns
• Ability to adapt and respond positively to changing work situations and environments.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent educational experience
• One year of experience in a customer-focused environment required
• Experience working with all ages of the public preferred.
• Commitment to continuous and self-directed learning.
• Ability to remain calm and resolve issues in challenging situations.
• Ability to accurately sort and file alphabetically and numerically according to library filing systems.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Primarily works in a standard, shared computer workstation office 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 (outreach events, programs, 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 and requires access to reliable transportation.
• This position requires regular evening and weekend hours.