What are the responsibilities and job description for the Library Assistant 1 position at Traverse Area District Library?
Job Title: Library Assistant
Weekly Hours: 40 (Regular Full Time)
Classification: Library Assistant 1
Department: Youth Services
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Head of Youth Services (or designee)
Reports to: Head of Youth Services (or designee)
Please apply by Sunday, December 28, 2025 for first consideration.
SUMMARY
The Youth Services Library Assistant, a member of the para-professional team, is responsible for employing Library best practices while providing a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere and fulfilling patron services, including; programming, reference information, and reader/listener/viewer advisory. In addition, duties may require independent judgement and action within specific parameters.
To perform this job successfully, an individual in this position must adhere to the Library’s mission, vision, and core values and be able to meet or excel in the following representative responsibilities, knowledge, and abilities:
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Welcomes all patrons as they arrive in the department.
- Assists patrons with navigating the library facilities and services.
- Assists patrons in locating information in various formats.
- Assists patrons with reference information services and reader/listener/viewer advisory services.
- Assists patrons with the use of TADL and MeL online resources.
- Assists patrons in the use of the self-checkout system.
- Plans, presents, and evaluates story times, programs, and activities for the respective department.
- Assists in the planning, implementation and evaluation of the Summer Reading Club.
- Assists patrons in the use of the reading club software.
- Creates and maintains departmental brochures, online and physical displays, bibliographies, bookmarks, and other relevant communication tools, with an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Develops, evaluates, and maintains sections of the collection as assigned.
- Participates in outreach services for respective age groups.
- Resolves patron service complaints and problems.
- Supports and upholds the Library behavior policy.
- Supports and applies the Library strategic plan.
- Prepares related reports, correspondence and records.
- Works evenings and weekends and at any library location as needed.
- Performs related duties as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of library policies, procedures, and best practices for providing public library services to all patrons.
- Knowledge of books, authors and patron interests.
- Ability to engage and direct groups of people of all ages.
- Ability to work and communicate effectively with the public and other employees.
- Ability to provide exceptional customer service.
- Skilled in the use of computers and other devices.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to be flexible and creative in a rapidly changing environment.
- Ability to push, lift, stack, and carry up to 30 lbs. on a regular basis.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE or OTHER Qualifications include:
- Bachelor’s degree or two years of public service experience
- Valid Michigan Driver’s License and/or reliable transportation
Although reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions, visual and communication ability is required.
The wage range is as follows: