JOB
Under the direct supervision of the Head of Children’s Services and the general supervision of the Library Director, the Library Services Assistant is responsible for assisting with planning and implementing programming for children and families. Additionally, the Library Services Assistant assists with outreach to build knowledge and understanding of the breadth and scope of Library offerings, as well as to expand the use of the Library. The Library Services Assistant performs circulation and customer service duties as needed. Commitment to excellent customer service is imperative.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Assists with the design and implementation of programs and activities, including Library tours, both in the Library and in the community, for families and children Helps maintain an environment that is attractive, inviting and safe for familiesAssists with the preparation and distribution of promotional material, including but not limited to press releases, bibliographies, signage and displays to encourage the use of the LibraryUses a variety of tools, including social media, to further the reach of the Children’s Department and LibraryAssists in the contribution of relevant material to the Library’s web presenceCollaborates with all departments in order to provide the best possible service to the communityEducates and assists users in the use of the Library and its resourcesAssists users in locating appropriate material and engages in recommending itemsAssists users of all ages in the use of the catalog, electronic resources and equipmentAssists with the development and maintenance of materials which promote the use of the LibraryAssists with periodic weeding of the collectionKeeps abreast of new materials and trends in Children’s Services and literatureSelects, evaluates, maintains and discards material based on professional standards, preferences of patrons and acknowledged review sourcesAssists the Head of Children’s Services with the purchasing of materialsRespects the facility and work environment by keeping work area neat, handling cleanups and reporting maintenance issues promptly and appropriatelyPerforms circulation duties as neededAssures the confidentiality of library use and library patron accounts Identifies, collects, interprets and presents statistics as neededPerforms opening and closing procedures in the Children’s DepartmentKeeps informed of current consortium policies, procedures and practices and interprets them to the public in a pleasant and effective mannerKeeps informed of current Library policies, procedures and practices and interprets them to the public in a pleasant and effective mannerPerforms other duties as assigned Additional Duties.Assists with the processing, data entry, organizing and maintenance of Library material, especially children’s collectionsAssists in grant applications, administration and reportingProvides guidance to Pages and volunteersAssists in other departments as neededMay attend professional meetings, workshops and continuing education opportunities
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Required Physical and Mental Effort and Environmental ConditionsAbility to lift books and other materials, weighing up to twenty-five (25) pounds, from shelves ranging from 6” to 8’ from the floor and return them to their proper place(s)Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time; move throughout the Library; bend, reach and crouch to shelve and retrieve materials; push and pull carts loaded with materialsAbility to represent the Library in the community and at public gatherings and speak to public groupsAbility to use a PC terminal, laptop or tablet for extended periods of timeAbility to carry supplies and equipment in excess of twenty-five (25) poundsAbility to move throughout the Library and other Town sitesAbility to read fine print materialsAbility to work in office and public settings subject to continuous interruptions and background noisesAbility to be flexible and adapt in a fast paced, complex and changing environmentAbility to maintain a calm atmosphere, assure safety and respond to emergenciesAbility to work evenings and weekends Required Minimum QualificationsHigh school diploma/GED required; college degree preferred. Proficiency with current technology and applications. A genuine respect and consideration for children and the ability to establish a positive rapport with the public are essential, as are strong overall customer service skills. Public library experience is desirable. License or CertificateMotor Vehicle Operator’s LicenseEEOC Statement: It is the policy of the Town of Simsbury to provide equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the Town of Simsbury will provide reasonable accommodations, that do not present an undue hardship, for qualified individuals with disabilities.