MASSACHUSETTS LIBRARY SYSTEM

JOB DESCRIPTION COLLECTION

 

   

SHREWSBURY PUBLIC LIBRARY

 SENIOR LIBRARY ASSISTANT - CHILDREN’S

 

Definition
Routine to complex administrative and direct service work supporting various library services, including children’s programs and activities; all other related work, as required.
 

Supervision
Work is performed under the direct supervision of the Head of Children’s Services.

Performs varied and standardized duties, according to prescribed rules and procedures, requiring independent judgment and initiative.
 

Work Environment
Work is performed under typical library and office conditions; workload is subject to seasonal fluctuations; regular library schedule requires evening and weekend work.

The employee operates standard office and library equipment.

Duties require regular interaction with library patrons and other organizations, in person, as well as by telephone, and require excellent customer service skills.

The employee has access to confidential patron records.

Errors are easily detected and corrected, but could result in delay of services or expenditure of time by other employees.
 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
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.

Assists patrons in the use of library facilities and resources; answers inquiries on procedures in person and by telephone; provides basic direction, information and instruction; provides assistance in the use of computers and Internet networks.

Performs a variety of administrative and support assignments; deletes outdated materials; types documents and forms.

Maintains magazine files; prepares new magazines for display; transfers magazines for circulation in the Children’s Room.

Participates in organizational meetings for the summer reading program; visits elementary schools and provides informational materials; registers participants.

Conducts summer craft workshops; creates lesson plans and display materials.

Performs circulation desk duties, as necessary; responsible for opening and closing the Children’s Room.

Attends informational and instructional meetings and workshops.

Oversees the work of library pages, as needed.

May be required to perform special assignments and similar or related work, as required, or as situation dictates.
 

Recommended Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience
High school diploma; two years of experience, including one year of library experience; experience working with children; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill
Knowledge of library policies and procedures, including automated circulation systems and information technology. Working knowledge of children’s literature.

Ability to interact tactfully and appropriately with library patrons. Ability to work with detail and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Ability to learn computer operations and related library databases. Ability to operate library equipment.

Customer service skills. Oral and written communication skills. Computer skills.
 

Physical Requirements
Minimal physical effort is required to perform duties under typical library conditions. The employee is frequently required to speak, hear, use hands to operate equipment, and reach with hands and arms. Vision requirements include the ability to read routine documents and use a computer.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.