Library Assistant Job Description 8/2026

Sturm Memorial Library Library Assistant Position Description

General Description:

Perform duties at the checkout desk and assist library director and assistant director with programming, database maintenance, and other routine tasks. Good customer service and participation in the overall mission of the library is very important in this position. This is a public-facing position.

Duties

· Provide friendly, consistent, and thorough customer service to library patrons of all ages with a variety of abilities.

· Perform circulation desk activities which include checking materials in and out, registering patrons, collecting fees, answering the telephone, and requesting materials for patrons.

· Assist patrons with reference questions and provide one on one instruction in the online catalog Infosoup as needed.

· Check in deliveries of library materials.

· Shelve returned items and maintain orderly collections by aligning items on the shelf; verifying that items are in the correct order; and dusting the shelves and items as needed.

· Work unsupervised as needed (sometimes all day).

· Work with co-workers in providing program assistance as needed (some evening and/or Saturday hours may be required for this).

· Assist with processing new items as assigned.

· Conduct routine maintenance of the collection as needed, such as cleaning books, making new labels, repairing items, and withdrawing items.

· Assists with library displays.

· Clean and maintain library as needed. This regularly includes tidying the library, particularly the children’s and craft areas. Periodic tasks include deep cleaning of furniture and toys. Infrequent tasks include cleaning the bathrooms. Outdoor tasks may include shoveling around driveway book return and/or steps and ramp; raising or lowering the flag; removing window paintings; and/or garden care.

· Performs miscellaneous tasks as asked by the library director.

Knowledge and Abilities

· Good interpersonal skills and ability to foster cooperative and courteous working relationships with the public, other staff, and the library director. Friendliness and enthusiasm for helping people is essential.

· Ability to work independently, organize and prioritize work, respond to varied and changing demands, and make decisions as needed. Ability to handle fast-paced work is essential.

· Ability to present information and respond to questions from patrons; provide one on one instruction to patrons; and effectively meet information needs of patrons in a friendly and confidential manner.

· Good reading, writing, telephone, and speaking skills.

· Ability to use a computer, tablet, and smart phone.

· Ability to quickly learn how to fax, copy, or print documents and use other library equipment.

· Ability to learn the current Integrated Library System (ILS) software through one-on-one training, online training, and reading documentation.

· Ability to document library processes.

· Willingness to attend continuing education workshops and system meetings as needed.

· Willingness to uphold Library Policies, the American Library Association Bill of Rights and the Sturm Memorial Library’s Code of Ethics, and to follow all state laws concerning library confidentiality.

· Ability to adjust break or lunch time depending on patron presence and/or other staff availability.

· Ability to work Wednesday evening and/or Saturday hours.

· Interest and ability to add to skills and hours as staffing and budget allow.

· Ability to demonstrate a grasp of the online circulation system and the online catalog and be able to work unsupervised within 120 work hours.

Physical Demands of Position

· Ability to stand for extended periods of time. Some days may require standing through the entire day.

· Ability to work on a computer for an extended period of time.

· Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and push heavy book carts regularly.

· Ability to shelve books and other items which requires bending, stooping, reaching; and reading spine labels from floor level to seven feet above it.

· Ability to move and rearrange furniture for programs.

Education, Experience, Requirements, and Preferences

· Legal right to work in the United States is required.

· High School Diploma or GED is required.

· Consenting to a background check is required.

· Experience in customer service or working with the public is preferred.

· Computer experience including Microsoft operating system and fundamental abilities using word processor and spreadsheet software is required.

· Experience using Android or Apple devices is preferred.

· Knowledge of InfoSoup (online library catalog) is preferred.

· Ability to have a flexible work schedule is preferred.

· A valid Driver’s License is preferred.

· Previous library experience is preferred.