Library Assistant II

Library Assistant II

The Library Assistant II performs technical duties related to cataloging, processing, circulation and distribution; performs clerical work related to library procedures and operations; provides specialized assistance regarding library resources to students, staff and other patrons; trains and provides work direction to student workers; assists office staff with clerical duties, as needed.

Under the direction of a Middle School Principal or a high school Assistant Principal with guidance from the high school Librarian, perform technical duties related to cataloging, processing, circulation, distribution; perform clerical work related to library procedures and operations; provide specialized assistance regarding library resources to students, staff, and other patrons; train and provide work direction to student workers.

Essential duties include:

• Provide library services and assistance at an assigned middle school or high school; schedule and coordinate library activities; promote student use of the library for research and reading pleasure.
• Assist teachers in researching materials for classroom use; notify teachers of books and materials applicable to classroom topics or themes.
• Assist teachers and students in acquiring textbooks for classroom or student use.
• Assist students in locating and selecting books, reference and other related materials using educational software and electronic database, including the catalog.
• Monitor and maintain acceptable student behavior in the library; monitor students taking tests or excused from P.E. class.
• Check books and other materials in and out at the circulation desk; process returned books and place in appropriate shelf location.
• Participate in an annual physical inventory of library books, materials and equipment as applicable; account for missing, lost or damaged books and equipment; update catalog to assure accuracy.
• Process new books and other related materials for the library.
• Prepare and maintain current and accurate records related to library activities, materials, lost and damaged items, overdue books and student and staff use of library and equipment; maintain records related to textbook distribution and inventory.
• Mend books as needed; withdraw books from library circulation due to worn condition or damage.
• Design, prepare and maintain appropriate library displays and bulletin boards; maintain a clean and orderly library environment.
• Assist with the completion of purchase requisitions for the purchase of books, magazines, equipment, and other library or textbook materials.
• Assist with the balancing and maintenance of budget records for the library.
• Collect and deposit monies for lost or damaged texts and issue replacements; maintain textbook storage area in a neat and orderly condition.
• Receive and process requests for library and textbook materials and equipment; store and circulate equipment; order, receive, distribute and collect County and District materials.
• Conduct presentations and orientations to students, staff and other interested community members regarding the layout and daily operations and functions of the library.
• Operate a personal computer and related software to produce and maintain various materials, including letters, notices, lists, reports, inventory records and databases.
• Train and provide work direction and guidance to student workers to assist with circulation, processing, shelving, filing, library displays and other library activities.
• Attend meetings and District in-services as requested; notify appropriate personnel regarding equipment and facility maintenance and repair needs.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, skills and abilities:

Knowledge of library practices, procedures and terminology; reference materials and sources; Dewey Decimal system of classification; filing, indexing and inventory procedures; principles of training and providing work direction; modern office practices, procedures and equipment; record-keeping techniques; research methods; correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; oral and written communications skills; interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy; computer operation, including related software.

Ability to provide library services and assistance; perform technical duties related to processing and circulating library materials; manage textbook inventory and control; estimate and communicate textbook and library material needs; assist students, staff and others in locating and utilizing various library materials, textbooks and resources; apply and explain library rules, regulations and policies; read, interpret and explain rules, regulations, policies and procedures; process a variety of library materials; train and provide work direction to others; operate a computer and related software; perform clerical duties such as filing, duplications and typing; type at an acceptable rate of speed; maintain library in a neat and orderly condition; make arithmetic calculations quickly and accurately; work independently with little direction; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; maintain accurate records and prepare reports; communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Education and experience:

• Graduation from high school supplemented by college-level course work in library science
• Minimum of two years of responsible experience in a library environment.

Working conditions:

Environment: Indoor environment; subject to constant interruptions

Physical Abilities: Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer and other library and office equipment; visual and auditory acuity; bending at the waist, carrying, pushing or pulling, lifting light objects weighing up to 14 pounds, and standing for extended periods of time.