PT Information Desk Assistant, Leominster Public Library, Leominster, MA

Posted August 16, 2019

GENERAL SUMMARY:
The Library Assistant is responsible for working at the Information Desk part-time. This position provides research and Library technology assistance to patrons. This position is delegated tasks by the Technology Librarian and assists the Technology Librarian in booking Community Spaces.

SUPERVISION:
Works under the direction of the Technology Librarian. Performs day-to-day tasks with a high degree of independence. Work involves a variety of highly specialized work tasks with many details to monitor and manage.

Complex and responsible duties require initiative and independent judgment to establish work plans and priorities, using and/or modifying established procedures to complete the work in accordance with established policies and standards.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
1. Greets and works with the public, demonstrating a positive attitude.
2. Performs basic circulation functions as needed.
3. Provides quick, correct, and professional answers for basic to intermediate research
inquiries using online resources and the reference and general collections.
4. Handles and collects cash, makes change for patrons. Is responsible for monitoring cash
levels and requesting change from the Administrative Assistant.
5. Offers suggestions and advice to patrons concerning individual reading preferences,
programs of study, and how to use the library.
6. Answers the telephone and answers reference questions and performs Information
Desk duties over the phone as needed.
7. Effectively and courteously helps patrons select and locate materials and answers basic
to intermediate collection inquiries.
8. Assists with the use and navigation of computing resources.
9. Interprets and explains Library policy and services to the public.
10. Educates customers about Library programs, services, and technology.
11. Assists with adult programming as needed.
12. Contributes to Collection Development and Maintenance as needed.
13. Keeps supervisor and co-workers informed of noteworthy occurrences at the
Information Desk.
14. Keeps daily statistics on Information Desk activity.
15. Provides technology assistance to patrons.
16. Attends training, workshops, and conferences relevant to Public Libraries, specifically
Reference and Information Services, customer service, and user experience.
17. Assists the Technology Librarian in reserving Community Spaces.
18. Other duties, projects, or service desks as assigned.

RECOMMENDED QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience:
High School diploma or GED equivalent is required, some college preferred.
Core Competencies:

• A genuine interest in helping customers.
• Strong technology skills and a desire to learn more.
• An interest in Library materials and services and attention to detail.
• Library work experience and/or knowledge of OCLC and other library systems highly desirable.
• An ability to work as a team as well as individually.
• Experience in working with a diverse community.
• Knowledge of Library databases and services.
• Bilingual abilities desirable.

Requires a criminal records (CORI) check and a drug test.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is subject to frequent interruptions. Regular library schedule requires evening and weekend work.

The employee operates standard office and library equipment and systems.
The employee has regular contact with the public in-person, online, and by telephone. Other contacts are with library staff, other City employees, state and regional library systems and networks, City and state officials, and representative of a wide-variety of organizations with which the library maintains partnerships.

The employee has access to personnel records and confidential patron records.

Errors could result in delay or loss of service and financial loss.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The work is carried out in conditions which can be affected by factors such as temperature and
noise.

The position requires standing for two to three hours at a given time, moderate to continuous
viewing of a computer screen, and using hands and fingers in activities requiring fine coordination
or dexterity.

The position requires significant physical exertion characterized by activities such as repeated
bending, reaching, climbing or walking and moderate lifting (up to 35 lbs.)

To Apply: Please send cover letter, resume, and references to Wendy Hurley, HR Director, [email protected]