Library Assistant I/II

Library Assistant I: $17.32 - 20.05 /hr.
Library Assistant II: $18.15 - $22.06 .hr.

Work schedule:  Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Under general supervision, performs a variety of responsible complex sub-professional library work; provides general information and assistance to the public; participates in the activities of a specialized library function; and performs related work as required.
 
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
 
Receives general supervision from the Library Director or Librarian I/II.  Exercises no supervision over staff, but may provide technical or functional direction to clerical staff and volunteers.
 
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Library Assistant I: This is the entry-level class in the Library Assistant series and primarily performs duties and activities related to library materials processing, sorting, shelving, and retrieving.   As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence.   Positions at the I level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods.   Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern.  Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.  Since this class is often used as a training class, employees may have only limited or no directly related work experience 
 
Library Assistant II: This is the journey-level class in the Library Assistant series. Incumbents primarily perform routine circulation and customer service tasks at the Circulation Desk, including checking materials in and out, collecting fines and fees, and issuing library cards.  Incumbents may also be required to interpret library policies related to the circulation of materials and to resolve customer issues within established policies. This class is distinguished from the Senior Library Assistant in that the latter is primarily responsible for the full operation of a function or branch of the library. This classification may provide back-up coverage for Senior Library Assistants in the day-to-day activities of a branch.(Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
 

• Performs circulation work, including checking materials in and out of the Library, maintaining circulation statistics, processing returned materials and preparing them for reshelving utilizing the library automation system.
• Processes billing related to lost materials and overdue books; accepts and receives payments for overdue or lost materials and maintains related records utilizing the library automation system.
• Sorts books, cards, and related materials according to alphabetical, numerical, and categorical systems; collects, stacks, shelves, and reshelves library materials.
• Processes library card applications and issues library cards; maintains records of current patron information utilizing the library automation system.
• Receives, researches, and responds to patrons’ reference requests; locates and provides requested materials and information; assists and instructs patrons in the proper use of library equipment and reference sources including internet, electronic databases, and other technology devices.
• Reserves library materials and notifies patrons of their availability; initiates and processes inter-library loan requests.
• Performs basic cataloging of books and related library materials.
• Monitors the condition of books and materials and performs necessary binding and repairs.
• Assists with the development of library collections, including ordering, purchasing, distribution and use of books and other materials in area(s) of specialization; reviews and recommends the acquisition of new materials for the Library’s collection; identifies materials to be removed from the collection.
• Prepares library exhibits and displays.
• Assists with library programming, including conducting classes, clubs, and special events.
• Participates in community events and outreach activities.
• Prepares signs, fliers, pathfinders, booklists, and other customer aides.
• Assists in the development of a variety of library-related literature-based and educational programs and activities.
• Participates in meetings, committees, or projects intended to enhance services or promote consistent policies and procedures across the department.
• Participates in professional meetings, workshops, and conferences and continuing education programs as appropriate. 
• May exercise functional and technical supervision over assigned library clerical, part-time, and volunteer personnel.
• Assists in ensuring the proper maintenance and use of Library equipment.
• Library Assistant II’s may substitute for Senior Library Assistants running a branch to cover vacations, illness, etc.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:
 
Library Assistant I:
 

• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service to the public, volunteers, vendors, contractors, and County staff, in person, and over the telephone.
• Library operating principles, including confidentiality of customer information, freedom of information, and intellectual freedom.
• Alphabetic and numeric systems for classifying and organizing library materials and principles
• Standard library practices and procedures including circulation.
• Applications of automated library circulation system.
• Basic record keeping principles and procedures.
• Basic principles and practices of data collection and report preparation.
• Principles and procedures of record keeping.
• Basic arithmetic principles and cash handling.
• Basic principles of supervision and training. 
• Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work.
• English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation. 
• Principles, practices, and techniques of effectively dealing with the public and public relations. 

 
Library Assistant II: (In addition to the above requirements)
 

• Library classification, cataloging, and bibliographic terminology.
• Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations.

 
Ability to:
 
Library Assistant I:
 

• Accurately sort and organize library materials using alphabetical or numerical classification systems.
• Retrieve, shelve and relocate library materials.
• Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public.
• Use English effectively to communicate orally and in writing.
• Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Prepare and maintain accurate and complete records. 
• Access, retrieve, enter, and update information using a computer terminal. 
• Organize own work and set priorities within procedural guidelines.
• Operate modern office equipment, including computer equipment and copy machines.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.
• Perform routine clerical work, including maintenance of appropriate records, mathematical calculations, and compiling information for reports. 

 
Library Assistant II: (In addition to the above requirements)
 

• Perform a variety of technical and clerical library work with speed and accuracy. 
• Interpret, explain, and apply Federal, State, and District laws, codes, regulations, policies, and procedures. 
• Organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.
• Oversee the work of others.

 
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be
 
Library Assistant I/II: Equivalent to a high school diploma or GED. 
 
Library Assistant I: One (1) year of responsible office experience.
 
Library Assistant II: Two (2) years of college level coursework in library science, literature or related liberal arts field and one (1) year of library experience performing at the level of Library Assistant I in Tuolumne County.  May substitute three (3) years of library experience performing at the level of Library Assistant I in Tuolumne County for college level coursework.
 
Licenses and Certifications:
 

• Must possess a California driver's license and have a satisfactory driving record.

Salary : $17 - $22