Library Associate I- 25 Hours Per Week

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Branch Manager, the Library Associate I provides high quality information, reader, technology, and circulation services to patrons of all ages while working at the library’s public service desks in the Cecilton and Chesapeake City communities. Consistently provides caring, non-judgmental customer service to all.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Provides information services, including readers advisory, reference, and technology assistance to patrons of all ages in person, via phone, email, online, etc.
• Conducts research using an array of resources, including the library’s databases and digital services.
• Provides technology instruction to the public in a variety of areas, including library software and hardware, personal device assistance, digital media and downloadables, and internet and computer usage. Assists customers with photocopying, printing, and self-check machines.
• Actively markets library services, programs, and materials to the community.
• Merchandises collections. Recommends and reviews books and other library materials through various media outlets, including the CCPL website.
• Works with supervisor to develop and implement department or branch goals within overall system goals.
• Utilizes the library’s circulation database to search for, check out, and place holds on materials requested by patrons.
• Carries out and explains library policies and procedures; resolves problems and concerns in a positive manner.
• Registers patrons for new library cards. Accurately enters data and updates patron records.
• Calculates and receives fines and fees.
• Maintains accurate service statistics.
• Monitors and maintains collection.
• Shelves library materials of all types. Processes and sorts deliveries and empties book drops.
• May serve on system-wide committees.
• Performs ongoing assignments of moderate to high difficulty.
• Other duties as assigned.

JOB STANDARDS:

• Promotes and maintains a high standard of excellent customer service, both internal and external.
• Demonstrates ability to work with diverse populations.
• Models positive attitude towards library technology and change.
• Maintains courteous, friendly, and constructive relationships with all patrons and staff.
• Promotes and advocates a positive library image in the community.
• Maintains professional growth and awareness through training, self-directed learning and other means to stay abreast of current and emerging trends in the community and in libraries.
• Performs job in keeping with the policies and procedures of the Cecil County Public Library.

CRITICAL SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

• Baccalaureate Degree from an accredited college.
• Within two years of appointment, each Library Associate shall have successfully completed Library Associates’ in-service training or nine credit hours of formal academic course work in library science. Such training may have been received prior to the date of appointment. Training provided by CCPL off-site in Maryland.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
• Ability to maintain composure and flexibility in a changing, public-facing environment.
• Excellent technology, computer, and personal device skills and experience, including various software packages.
• Knowledge of Windows operating system, internet resources, social media and other technologies and how to use them effectively.
• Knowledge of a variety of types of electronic hardware devices for computing, listening, viewing, gaming and new technologies.
• Willingness and ability to acquire knowledge of library computer systems and applications.
• Ability to analyze and perform and or manage a wide variety of library projects.
• Strong knowledge of books, authors, current events.
• Ability to reach, bend and lift up to 35 lbs.
• Ability to push/pull a rolling book carts.