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Library Associate, Cambridge Public Library, Cambridge, MA

Description:

Under minimal supervision, provide outstanding customer service to diverse patrons of all ages and perform circulation, programming, readers’ advisory, administrative and other duties in all areas of the library.

  • Deliver exceptional and engaging service to the public.
  • Perform circulation and patron account management duties.
  • Assist patrons in locating books and information, reference, and reader’s advisory
  • Assist patrons in using a wide range of technologies (e.g., computers, laptops, e-readers, tablets, scanners, Wi-Fi hotspots, emerging STEAM technologies), including basic troubleshooting and maintenance.
  • Maintain orderliness and neatness in the library. Process deliveries; merchandize and shelve materials.
  • Monitor public areas of library.
  • Communicate and apply library policies and procedures; address and resolve patron issues.
  • In partnership with professional staff, plan, assist with or conduct programs and events to meet community needs and interests, including setting up and operating audiovisual and STEAM equipment.
  • Promote library services and participate in outreach activities.
  • Perform administrative and organizational tasks such as compiling statistics, generating reports and ordering supplies.
  • Participate in trainings and workgroups for planning and implementing projects, programs, and initiatives.
  • May participate in some selection of library materials, coordinate daily tasks of unit, supervise library pages, mentor and train other staff, and contribute to Library’s social media.
  • Other duties as required for the good of the Library.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university is required.
  • Experience working in public libraries or other community settings is highly desirable.
  • Fluency in a language in addition to English is desirable.

In exceptional instances, specialized education, training and/or experience may be substituted for part or all of the required elements.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge and understanding of the Library’s mission, vision, values, and strategic priorities.
  • Commitment to doing all work through a lens of diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism.
  • Strong customer service skills and commitment to public service.
  • Ability to work with a diverse population in an urban setting.
  • Effective communication, interpersonal skills, and a positive attitude.
  • Sound judgment and problem-solving skills, including ability to handle unexpected situations.
  • Strong teamwork skills, including flexibility to fill in during scheduling emergencies and vacation periods.
  • Knowledge of urban public library concepts and techniques, literature and media, digital resources, and current technology.
  • Ability to operate library computers, equipment, software, and systems.
  • Knowledge of developmental principles, materials and current issues related to serving target audiences; ability to apply developmental principles to programs and services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  Ability to operate standard office equipment; transport carts of materials which can weigh more than 100 pounds across a level floor or on a ramp; carry baskets of materials weighing up to 30 pounds; pay attention to details and concentrate on tasks despite frequent interruptions and moderate noise levels; communicate effectively and exchange accurate information with coworkers and members of the public read and organize written material; place library materials on shelves or carts which can be located at floor level or overhead.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:  Works in assigned area, including office areas, training rooms, library locations, as needed. Normal office exposure to noise, stress, and interruptions.

HOURS OF WORK:  37.5 hours/week. Hours are assigned and may be changed to meet the needs of the Department and the Library. Flexibility is required. Initial schedule as follows:

  • Monday 9:30 am – 6 pm (except when working Saturday)
  • Tuesday 9:30 am – 6 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am – 6 pm
  • Thursday 11:30 am – 8 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am – 6 pm
  • Saturday 11:30 am – 5 pm (At O’Neill Branch Library on 70 Rindge Ave, one out of every three weeks with Monday off on weeks Saturday is worked, Tue-Fri shifts are 8 hours instead of 7.5 hours on weeks Saturday is worked)

RATE: $28.77 per hour to $31.76 per hour in five steps

How to Apply:

For more information and to apply, visit:

https://www2.cambridgema.gov/viewjoblisting.cfm?Job_ID=2813