Substitute Circulation Assistant Position Description – Sunderland Public Library, (Sunderland, MA)

Posted January 5, 2023

Job Description:

The Substitute Circulation Assistant is responsible for filling in during staff absences, providing clerical services in the areas of circulation support, patron services, and collection processing. The Substitute Circulation Assistant is responsible for the completion of the following tasks:

            Circulation:

–          Staffing the circulation desk.

–          Checking in and out library materials.

–          Knowing how to use the Evergreen ILS for all circulation tasks.

–          Assisting patrons with placing holds and searching the OPAC.

–          Processing incoming and outgoing holds.

–          Notifying patrons of available holds.

–          Printing and processing the pull list of holds, and assigning the completion of pulling the holds to an available volunteer.

–          Recording daily patron usage statistics.

–          Shelving and shelf-reading library materials.

Patron Services:

–          Answering the phone.

–          Informing patrons of all library services and upcoming events.

–          Answering basic reference questions both in person and over the phone.

–          Providing reader advisory services.

–          Creating new library cards and updating existing patron accounts.

–          Showing patrons how to use in-house technology such as computers, printers, and photocopiers.

–          Troubleshooting issues with computer, printer, photocopier and all other in-house technologies.

–          Collecting and recording copier/fax fees and monetary donations.

–          Informing patrons of and enforcing library policies.

–          Handling patron complaints in the absence of the Library Director courteously and then reporting them to the Library Director.

Other Duties:

–          Opening the building at the start of the day.

–          Securing the building at the end of the day.

–          Light cleaning of computers and shelving areas.

The Substitute Circulation Assistant may also be assigned additional tasks by the Library Director.

Minimum Qualifications:

–          High School Diploma.

–          Previous experience providing customer service.

–          Enjoyment of working with diverse patrons.

–          Comfort using a variety of technology including computers, printers, and photocopiers.

–          Willingness to learn new technology.

–          Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and assess priorities in a busy setting.

–          Ability to maintain composure and treat patrons with kindness in a busy setting.

–          Enthusiasm, energy, and accuracy in the completion of all tasks.

Preferred Qualifications:

–          Previous experience working in libraries.

Physical Demands of Position:

–          Standing for long periods of time.

–          Frequent bending, crouching, reaching, climbing, and walking.

–          Regularly lifting items weighing up to 20 pounds.

–          Ability to operate a computer screen for extended periods of time. 

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter and resume to [email protected] .