Library Associate, Cambridge Public Library, Cambridge, MA
Posted April 11, 2022
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: