Substitute Library Assistant, Lending Services

Curtis Memorial Library is seeking an individual with exemplary customer service skills to assist patrons at the Welcome Desk. This position serves as a primary customer service contact for patrons using the library and provides a variety of services related to the circulation of library materials.

This is a part-time, per diem position. A Substitute Library Assistant may work morning, afternoon, or evening shifts to cover vacations and other planned or unplanned staff absences. Includes occasional evening and weekend shifts.

Reviews begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Nature of Work

Serves as a primary customer service contact for patrons using the library. Provides a variety of services related to the circulation of library materials and connects library patrons to appropriate staff and resources. Other responsibilities as assigned.

Primary Responsibilities

• Provides customer service at the Welcome Desk


• Checks materials in and out; renews and reserves materials


• Provides assistance with self-service technology


• Connects patrons with library programs, promotions, and services


• Processes new library cards and updates patron records


• Collects payment for library materials and merchandise sales


• Responds to phone queries and requests


• Answers directional queries and refers informational queries to appropriate staff


• May provide readers’ advisory


• Performs materials handling tasks including packing/unpacking interlibrary loan deliveries and routing materials to various locations


• Sorts materials onto carts using the Dewey Decimal System and other categories


• Opens and closes Lending Services area

Qualifications and Requirements of Work

• Customer-focused and friendly with good communication skills


• Ability to use diplomacy and tact to establish and maintain relationships with library patrons and colleagues


• Ability to learn new skills and processes


• Ability to work independently and as part of a team


• Ability to determine and focus on priorities


• Ability to take initiative


• Careful attention to detail


• Ability to read, understand, and follow established library policies and procedures


• Ability to file materials alphabetically and numerically in an accurate manner


• Ability to follow written and or verbal instructions with attention to detail


• Ability to work with minimal supervision, and to meet quality standards and productivity goals


• Basic typing or keyboarding skills


• Proficiency with automated library systems preferred


• High school diploma or equivalent


• Ability to work a varied schedule; includes some weekends and evenings


• Ability to work and hear well in a noisy and hectic environment, look at computer screens for extended times, stand for long periods, and kneel, push, bend, and lift up to 20 lbs at a time