Library Assistant Job Description
What Does a Library Assistant Do?
A library assistant is responsible for providing library patrons with assistance in locating and using library resources. They also provide administrative assistance such as shelving books, maintaining library records, and helping with other library operations.
Library Assistant Job Description Example
Vegas Reads Books is looking for a Library Assistant to join our passionate team of book lovers. If you’re excited about helping others share in the love of books, then this is the job for you!
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist customers with finding books, determining appropriate selections, and making purchases.
- Maintain and update the library’s catalog record system for accuracy and completeness.
- Restock library shelves daily and respond to customer inquiries regarding books and location.
- Work with the library manager to track library usage and incoming materials.
- Assist with library programming and displays.
- Assist in maintaining the library’s book collection.
Work Hours and Benefits:
This is a full-time, 40-hour per week position with benefits.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Experience working in a library and/or bookstore
- Knowledge of library and book store procedures and policies
- An interest in and knowledge of books, authors, and genres
- Excellent customer service and communication skills
- Knowledge of library and/or bookstore software systems
- Ability to stand for long periods of time
- High level of organization and attention to detail
Training and Education:
The Library Assistant requires fundamental training in library and bookstore procedures and software systems.
If this position sounds like a great fit for you and you meet our qualifications, please apply now. We’d love to welcome you to our team!
What to Include on a Library Assistant Resume or Job Posting
Common library assistant responsibilities
- Assisting patrons with locating and checking out library materials.
- Maintaining library databases and catalogs.
- Assisting patrons with computer and technology related questions.
- Assisting patrons with research and reference questions.
- Shelving and organizing library materials.
- Processing new library materials.
- Assisting with library programming and events.
- Assisting with library marketing and outreach.
- Assisting with library budgeting and financial management.
- Assisting with library security and safety.
Qualities & traits
- Excellent communication skills - Library assistants must be able to interact effectively with patrons and colleagues.
- Interpersonal skills - Library assistants must be able to work well with people of all ages and backgrounds.
- Patience - Library assistants must be patient and understanding when helping patrons.
- Attention to detail - Library assistants must be able to accurately process and catalog materials.
- Organizational skills - Library assistants must be able to keep track of materials and organize them in an efficient manner.
- Computer skills - Library assistants must be familiar with computers and library software.
- Flexibility - Library assistants must be able to adapt to changing circumstances and situations.
- Problem-solving skills - Library assistants must be able to troubleshoot and resolve any issues that may arise.
- Knowledge of library resources - Library assistants must be knowledgeable about the library’s resources and be able to direct patrons to the appropriate materials.
- Time management skills - Library assistants must be able to prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively.
What a typical day looks like for a library assistant
A library assistant performs a variety of duties daily. This includes helping patrons to find the materials they need, providing instructions on how to use the library’s services, cataloging and filing materials, organizing shelves, helping to check out and return materials, and providing reference services. They are also responsible for maintaining and updating library databases and websites, addressing patrons' inquiries, and keeping library records. In addition, library assistants lead community programs such as story times, book clubs, and other library events. They may also provide instruction on how to use computers for those patrons who need assistance.
Compatible jobs and work history
Library assistants are an important part of the library team, helping to provide support and ensure library patrons get the materials they need. They must be knowledgeable about library systems, processes, and services and be comfortable assisting patrons with a range of tasks. Although library assistant experience is preferred, there are a number of other jobs and industries that have skills and duties relevant to library work. These include roles in customer service, administrative work, and even certain specialized areas of information technology. Below is a list of job titles that could be compatible with working as a library assistant:
- Customer Service Representative
- Administrative Assistant
- Database Administrator
- Information Technology Specialist
- File Clerk
- Data Entry Specialist
- Technical Writer
- Research Assistant
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Technical Support Specialist
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