Library Assistant

Pay

• Hiring Range: $16.39 - $19.67 Hourly
• Pay Range: $16.39 - $22.95 Hourly

Hours

• Part Time 20 hour workweek
• Partial days, evenings, and weekends are required.

Location

• Francis Branch Library
• 52655 N Ironwood Rd, South Bend, IN 46635

Essential Job Functions

Library Assistants provide excellent service and connect community members with library services and materials. Under the direct supervision of the Assistant Branch Manager and with an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the Library Assistant will:

1. Provide hands-on customer service. Assist patrons with library accounts and issuing library cards. Assist patrons in person or on the phone with transactions, such as using self-checks, fax/scanning, and printing. Perform circulation duties, including check-out, placing holds, collecting fines, and searching patron database. 
2. Connect patrons digitally by helping them use a variety of devices and technologies. 
3. Perform daily departmental procedures, including cash register operations. Use a variety of library technologies and softwares. Troubleshoot computers, copiers, and equipment as needed. 
4. Help patrons one-on-one with a variety of in-depth projects and topics such as completing government forms, school projects, job applications, etc. Provide readers’ advisory and reference services to patrons.
5. Provide accurate information and directional assistance for patrons, including performing online catalog searches and locating items on the shelf. 
6. Participate in merchandising and maintaining branch appearance including filling displays and performing shelving responsibilities. 
7. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Cash register experience preferred.
• At least 2 years of work experience in a public library and/or retail.

Ability to:

• Work efficiently and prioritize important tasks. Make decisions and work independently and interdependently.
• Accept and manage change. Maintain composure and overcome stress in any situation.
• Identify efficiencies and suggest improvements in workflow. 
• Display high standards of ethical conduct, honesty, and integrity. Lead by example. 

• Understand, endorse, and communicate the St. Joseph County Public Library’s policies and procedures in a courteous, friendly, and positive manner.
• Be enthusiastic, creative, flexible, energetic, value diversity, and possess a sense of humor.
• Solve problems in a professional manner with library patrons, co-workers, and Leadership.
• Form and maintain excellent working relationships.
• Manage confidential information appropriately.
• Work patiently and creatively with all patrons.
• Provide excellent customer service. 
• Teach and instruct others on a variety of topics.
• Become proficient with current library technology.
• Take charge in emergency situations if assigned as Librarian in Charge (full-time only).

Requirements

• Spanish language skills preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as strong organizational skills.
• Public service orientation and commitment to excellent and genuine customer service. 
• Demonstration of character and integrity in all situations while upholding SJCPL’s ethical standards. 
• Practical experience and proficiency with computers, including the Internet, Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Windows, Mac OS, and communication technologies. Stay current with new technologies.
• Dependability, punctuality, trustworthiness, good attendance, and work habits.
• Physical agility and strength to bend, reach, lift, and move library materials (20-25 lbs.) and to stand for long periods of time.

Benefits

• Dental and Vision Insurance Plans
• Hoosier S.T.A.R.T 457(b) Employee Funded Retirement Plan
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Employee Assistance Program
• 16 Vacation Hours Annually
• 40 Sick Time Hours Annually 
• 10 Paid Holidays