Library Assistant I

Library Assistant I

Under general supervision, to perform front-line paraprofessional public service duties in support of circulation, reference/information, technology assistance, and programming services; to serve as a primary point of contact for patrons in person and by telephone; to provide real-time assistance in locating materials and information; to support library programs and outreach activities; and to interpret and explain Library services, policies, and procedures to the public.

The following tasks are typical for positions in this classification. Any single position may not perform all of these tasks and/or may perform similar related tasks not listed here:

1. Respond to patron in-person and telephone requests for Library materials, services and information; assist patrons in locating materials using the online catalog, databases, and internet resources; instruct patrons in the use of Library technologies including public computers, wireless access, printing, scanning, mobile devices, and digital collections; interpret and explain Library rules, procedures, and policies; exercise independent judgment in resolving routine service issues and determining when to refer complex matters to professional or supervisory staff.
2. Compile statistics and data on information as requested; maintain a variety of records and files.
3. Perform general clerical work; type a variety of documents; answer phones; enter information into computer; maintain files and records; process and distribute the mail.
4. Operate a variety of office equipment including a computer, telephone system, point of sales, copy machine, and other related equipment.
5. Assist in monitoring, ordering and receiving supplies; maintain files of equipment and supplies. Participate in the preparation and maintenance of displays and exhibits relative to area of assignment; assist with seasonal and on-going programs and activities; set up for special events; provide hands-on assistance during programs for children, teens, and adults, including participant support and independently resolving routine issues during program delivery.
6. Input data into the Library's computer systems; make corrections; add or delete entries on bibliographic records; correct author and subject entries; search for missing books as necessary.
7. Process materials prior to shelving; file and shelve materials as necessary; print classification numbers for Library materials.
8. Check out Library materials to patrons; check in and prepare materials for return to the circulating collection; collect materials from book deposits; re-sensitize materials for shelving; register new patrons and collect fines and fees; interpret circulation policies regarding fines, fees, borrowing limits, renewals, and exceptions, and make on-the-spot determinations consistent with established guidelines
9. Perform duties related to the Inter-Library Loan program; utilize the specialized computer network to request materials not in the Coronado Library collection from other libraries throughout the country; communicate with patrons regarding availability, delivery timelines, renewals, and related policies. Support and promote children's, teen, and adult services through assistance with programs, outreach activities, and distribution of informational materials.
10. Participate in the coordination and assembly of set designs, seasonal displays and other structures; maintain and organize materials in storage including costumes, props, puppets, games, arts and crafts supplies, prizes, hardware and related items.
11. Serve as primary staff presence at public service desks during assigned shifts, simultaneously managing in-person, telephone, and technology-related inquiries; address and de-escalate patron concerns and service conflicts as the first point of contact.
12. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Minimum Requirements

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience: At least one year of responsible public service experience in a library or similar customer-focused environment, involving direct interaction with the public and use of computerized systems, is desirable.

Education/Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade. Additional coursework in library science, information services, education, or a related field is desirable.

Knowledge of: Customer service principles and techniques. Modern office equipment including computers. Principles and practices of record keeping. English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation.

Ability to:

• Learn to independently perform circulation, information, and technology support functions in a public library setting
• Provide routing reference and offer guidance on research and reading recommendations using both print and digital resources
• Troubleshoot common issues related to public computers, wireless access, printing, and digital materials
• Interpret and apply library policies and procedures
• Interact effectively and courteously with the public in delivering services.
• Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public.
• Perform a variety of clerical library tasks.
• Prepare various library displays.
• Maintain accurate and concise records.
• Operate a variety of office equipment including a computer and associated word processing applications.
• Type at a speed necessary for successful job performance.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Examination Process: A completed City of Coronado employment application and copies of all licenses and/or certificates must be received in the Human Resources Division at (under Quick Link to "Employment"). Applicants will be screened for qualifications and those applicants considered best qualified will be invited to an oral interview. All appointments are subject to a successful completion of a background check and pre-employment physical examination. The City of Coronado participates in E-verify; all new employees are required to submit verification of legal right to work in the United States. The City of Coronado is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). Minorities, women, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Individuals with disabilities who will require reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any portion of the application, interview, and/or testing process may voluntarily request the accommodation from the City five working days prior to the requested accommodation. Documentation of the need for the accommodation may be required upon receipt of the request.

Supplemental Information

The physical demands herein 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 these essential job functions. Productivity: Incumbents must perform work in an efficient, effective and timely manner with minimal direction. Mobility: Incumbents require sufficient mobility to work in a library setting, operating office equipment; some positions may require moderate or light lifting, climbing ladders, crawling, bending, reaching, kneeling or stooping for extended periods of time. Vision: Vision sufficient to read small print, computer screens and other printed documents. Environment: Library environment; extensive public contact. Other Factors: Incumbents may be required to work extended hours including evenings and weekends.