Desk Assistant, Tufts Library, Weymouth Public Libraries, Weymouth, MA

Posted October 13, 2023

Job Overview

The Weymouth Public Libraries seeks a motivated, enthusiastic team player with superior customer service skills to join our circulation staff at Tufts Library, the main branch and busiest library in Weymouth. Performs responsible and varied clerical library services in the circulation of materials; performs clerical-administrative work; and assists patrons in using library services and facilities.

Schedule: Tuesdays 5:00-9:00 p.m. Thursdays 5:00-9:00 p.m. Saturdays 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Supervision: Receives oral or written instructions from the Head of Circulation, plans work according to established procedures, prioritizes tasks within work assignment.

Salary: $20.79/hour

Job Environment

Work is performed under typical office and library conditions; work environment is moderately quiet; occasionally required to work outside of normal business hours. In addition, may be required to work on weekends, when staffing levels and staffing situations dictate. Operates computer and other standard office equipment. Works within an integrated library system (ILS) used by the 28 libraries of the Old Colony Library Network. Makes occasional contact with other town departments, vendors, library patrons, and other library organizations; contacts are by phone, in person, and in writing, and require excellent customer service skills.

Essential Functions

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

• Acts as a first point of contact for all patrons; assists patrons with general questions about library and in the use of materials, greets visitors of library; answers telephones and directs calls; answers patrons’ inquiries regarding their accounts or reserving museum passes; helps patrons locate library materials or sends them to Information Desk.
• Charges, discharges and inspects library books, materials and equipment; sorts and shelves books and periodicals. Sends notices to patrons when necessary. Collects fees from patrons when necessary.
• Uses ILS-generated reports to maintain the integrity of the library collection. Periodically weeds collection, removing outdated or damaged materials or equipment.
• Assists persons in registering for library cards including processing such applications; enters and retrieves member and circulation information via the ILS. Provides orientation to new patrons related to services provided by libraries.
• Processes materials newly cataloged for the library collection.
• May be asked to prepare promotional materials or help create displays to promote use of library collection, programs and services.
• May be asked to participate in professional development opportunities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

A high school diploma or GED required with a four-year degree preferred.

Experience

Previous work experience within a library setting or in a customer service field is preferred.

Knowledge

Knowledge of integrated library systems, library procedures and practices a plus.

Ability and Skill

Ability to interpret instructions both in written and oral form; ability to problem solve; typing, filing, data entry and general mathematical skills. Strong comfort level with technology, software, and communication via email. Ability to work with a diverse population by providing superior customer service. Ability to create a welcoming environment for all.

Physical Requirements

Light physical effort required in carrying and shelving books, and in performing other typical library functions. Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and climbing. Ability to operate a keyboard at an efficient speed. Frequently required to sit and talk or hear, use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move materials weighing up to 20 pounds.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted through Friday, October 27, 2023. Applicants interested in the position can send their resume and Town of Weymouth employment application either by fax to 781-682-3561, by email to [email protected], or by mail or in person to Human Resources, 182 Green Street, N. Weymouth, MA 02191. The job posting, a full job description, and the Town of Weymouth employment application can be found at https://www.weymouth.ma.us/human-resources/pages/working-for-the-town-of-weymouth-employment-opportunities. 

All candidates that are offered a position with the Town must successfully complete a background investigation, which may include a pre-employment physical, pre-placement drug test and a CORI/SORI search.