Retail Sales - Chautauqua Literary & Scientific Circle Bookstore Clerk; Literary Arts​/Seasonal

Description

Chautauqua Literary Arts convenes readers and writers of all ages in community, conversation, intensive craft development, and exploratory learning opportunities. Summer season programs for the Chautauqua Literary Arts department includes the Chautauqua Writers’ Center, Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle (CLSC), youth programs, The Chautauqua Prize, and the Chautauqua Janus Prize.

Chautauqua Literary Arts convenes readers and writers of all ages in community, conversation, intensive craft development, and exploratory learning opportunities. Summer season programs for the Chautauqua Literary Arts department includes the Chautauqua Writers’ Center, Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle (CLSC), youth programs, The Chautauqua Prize, and the Chautauqua Janus Prize.

Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle (CLSC) is one of the oldest continuous book discussion groups in the United States and has been a leader in adult education through quality programming since 1878. Once members read their choice of 12 books from the CLSC Booklist, they are eligible to become graduates of the program. Each year, the CLSC adds approximately nine books of literary quality to the list and invites the authors to Chautauqua to present their work during the summer season.

The CLSC Young Readers program encourages the enjoyment of good reading; each year books are selected based on their quality, the variety of styles and subjects, and their appeal to young adult readers.

The CLSC Bookstore is located in the Octagon Building. The hours of operation are 12 – 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and Sunday. Closed Saturday. The retail aspects operate under the inventory, point-of-sale, and deposit systems of the Chautauqua Bookstore in nearby Bestor Plaza and are arranged in cooperation with Chautauqua Bookstore staff.

The CLSC Octagon Clerk provides exceptional customer service by greeting patrons, identifying their needs, and offering knowledgeable assistance with merchandise selection and purchases. This role supports daily retail operations while promoting a welcoming and informative environment for all guests. This position plays a vital role in delivering an engaging and informative bookstore experience for all patrons.

Ideal candidates have 1-3 years' experience in retail sales or related customer service experience; bookstore sales preferred.

• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Basic computer proficiency and comfort with POS systems and data entry within databases.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in handling transactions.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team‑oriented environment.
• Interest in books, authors, and community programming preferred.

Compensation for this position starts at $16.00/Hour and, with demonstrated experience and qualifications, candidates may earn up to $17.00/Hour.

• Greet patrons, ascertain patron’s wants or need and answer questions regarding merchandise.
• Recommend and help locate or obtain merchandise.
• Able to provide general information about Chautauqua Institution.
• Assist in creating a safe, pleasant, and convenient retail environment.
• Sets up displays or arranges merchandise on counters, tables or racks to promote sales.
• Keep retail area clean and free of debris by performing light housekeeping duties.

• Use a computer to provide information on product availability using our inventory management software and web-based book databases.
• Operate a cash register and / or POS system to compute sale prices, total purchases, process cash or credit payment and provide customer with proper sales receipt and change.
• Data entry for CLSC memberships.
• Ensure accurate records of sales transactions and / or refunds in accordance with department policies.

• Attends the weekly CLSC author presentation and assists with the author signing on the porch of Alumni Hall.
• Supports CLSC Octagon Manager and Director of Literary Arts in logistical, operational, and administrative roles related to literary events.
• Suppo…