Substitute Library Technician- Adult and Youth Services

The Jones Library System seeks creative and energetic Substitute Library Technicians to work on call at the Adult and Youth Services circulation desks, providing exceptional customer service and performing a variety of duties related to registering patrons, updating records, and advising on reading materials and other general information. If you have a passion for providing educational and recreational services to library visitors, this may be the job for you!

Substitute Library Technician – Adult and Youth Services Library Services Part-Time, Unbenefited (up to 19 hours per week; weekly hours not guaranteed)

Job Summary: The Substitute Library Technician in Adult and Youth Services works on an on-call basis, welcoming Library visitors and providing courteous and friendly assistance on use of the Library and technology to people of all ages and from all backgrounds and experiences. Performs a variety of tasks related to membership, billing, loaning Library materials, and maintaining patron borrowing records. Advises on reading materials.

Supervision Received: Works under the general supervision of the Head of Borrower Services and Head of Youth Services who assigns tasks based on overall objectives and workload requirements, reviews work and evaluates performance.

Supervision Exercised: Generally none. The employee is responsible for their own work, but may occasionally provide guidance to volunteers.

Major Duties:

• Provides customer service to patrons, giving basic information and directions. Answers questions on the use of the Library and available services. Refers questions requiring further research, decision-making, or time to appropriate persons.

• Charges and discharges materials using computer system(s). Checks accuracy of all dates and numbers. 

• Reviews patron accounts for long overdue items and unpaid bills and takes appropriate action. Renews patron library cards. Updates contact information on patron library accounts.

• Explains the Library’s borrowing policies according to established and specific procedures; and exercises judgement to offer flexibility on a case-by-case basis to help patrons improve their Library experience. Searches for requested and reserved materials on computer database(s) and shelves for individuals, teachers, class projects, and other libraries. Maintains records on status of requests and notifies patrons when items are available. Refers special cases to supervisor.

• Answers incoming calls and routes callers or provides information, as required. Assists patrons who present a wide range of physical and communication abilities. Refers questions on other special services to appropriate person(s).

• Provides basic information on the use of the computer catalog. Directs patrons to locations of various collections. Advises on reading materials, referring questions requiring more in-depth research and time to supervisor. May be asked to assist with Summer Reading Club, craft programs, and other activities.

• Sorts returned materials by classification and by library. Returns to shelves accurately in specific sequence or prepares for statewide delivery routing. Examines materials for physical damage and takes appropriate action.

• Registers new borrowers. Reviews application form for completeness, accuracy, and appropriate identification. 

• Verifies signatures. Enters and updates information on computer database(s).

• Collects money and bank checks, and makes change. Instructs patrons on payment options for lost and damaged library materials. Collects and records payments for lost or damaged library materials, for items sold from the Library’s book sale area, and for Library merchandise.• Assists in preparation of book displays, flyers, exhibits, and posters.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or equivalent, PLUS experience working in a customer service capacity with people of differing ages and backgrounds, AND experience working with various types of library software, such as CWMARS regional system and Evergreen circulation software.• Ability to pay close attention to detail, and work with alphabetical and numeric organization.• Knowledge of information tools, and an understanding of the changing service environment. • Excellent technology skills. • Proficient customer service skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills; • Ability to communicate with cultural competence. • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle stressful situations. • Ability to work well as a part of a team and maintain effective work relationships with co-workers and the general public. • Preparedness to encounter challenging interactions and willingness to learn and seek out solutions with the help of supervisors and colleagues

Preferred Qualifications: • Two (2) years of increasingly responsible experience in a library. • Knowledge of library practices and procedures. • Knowledge about and interest in reading and literature. • Bilingual capabilities.

Tools and Equipment Used: Library information databases and integrated library system; computer workstation and MS Office software suite; computer and print management software; standard office equipment; digital scanner; microfilm/fiche reader; mobile devices; and other standard office equipment.

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is routinely required to walk, climb, and push; use hands to finger, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move 25 pounds or more and push heavy book carts. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work environment is a public setting with many walk-in patrons. The noise level is moderately noisy. The employee is exposed to common germs, paper, book dust, and, occasionally, to mold.

Selection Guidelines: Formal application, rating of education, and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required.

How to Apply:

Apply online at: https://ma-amherst4.civicplus.com/jobs.aspx