Library Senior Assistant - Substitute; Local History

Job Description

Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield’s Public Library, is seeking to fill the substitute position of Library Senior Assistant. The Senior Assistant will assist patrons in person, by telephone, and through email in locating and using library materials. They will staff departmental service desks without supervision, assisting and instructing patrons in the use of materials and equipment, including specialized computer systems, scanners, printers, and microfilm readers.

In addition, the Senior Assistant will complete shelving, filing, and other duties and/or special projects as assigned.

This position involves intermittent hours working as a substitute at a public service desk in the Local History department, with possible cross‑training in other departments.
Hours are available immediately. The Library foresees a six‑week training period of regular shifts. Subsequently, there will be opportunities for substitute hours, covering absences due to employee leave, as well as working in the evening and Saturday staffing rotations. These intermittent hours may fluctuate from zero to nineteen hours per week, but have been estimated at up to forty hours each month, with a minimum of one shift per month and opportunities for additional substitute hours.

• Performs specific tasks assigned by the supervisor, usually one time projects, but may be trained for specific functions involving ongoing duties, including special research, database creation/maintenance, and preservation activities
• Performs clerical duties
• Applies problem solving abilities to appropriate circumstances and routinely addresses complaints and resolves problems
• Performs Internet and other computer searches
• Provides public desk coverage as applicable, including assisting library users in answering reference questions of moderate to higher complexity, assisting patrons locating and using department materials and equipment, and maintaining public discipline and decorum
• Assists with program planning and execution, including scheduling of special events and promotion
• Assists in the training of subordinate staff
• Uses the department’s audio‑visual, office, and computer equipment and resources and routinely offers training to staff and/or public in its use
• Performs other duties as assigned, including shelving tasks as needed

• Bachelor's degree or two years of college or technical school with related course work or one year of related experience and/or training or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Demonstrated organizational and problem solving skills
• Ability to interact with the public at all ages and levels of research experience, including an ability to maintain the proper discipline and decorum of library visitors
• Comfortable learning about and using new and changing library technology
• Computer experience and aptitude, including keyboard skills
• Ability to work efficiently with minimum supervision

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, the City of Pittsfield is a vibrant and welcoming community that blends rich history with a forward‑thinking outlook. As the cultural and economic hub of the region, Pittsfield offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. Our city government is committed to fostering a high quality of life for all residents by delivering essential services, promoting sustainable growth, and championing a diverse and inclusive community.

Working for the City of Pittsfield means being part of a team dedicated to public service and making a real difference in the lives of our citizens. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. Whether it’s enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, or supporting our vibrant arts scene, every role within our organization plays a vital part in shaping the future of our city.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural workforce, excellence in public service, and ongoing mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions – recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Join us in our mission to build a stronger, more connected Pittsfield, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

• Direct Deposit
• Free Permitted Parking
• Holiday Pay
• Vacation / Sick Time (Generic Leave)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Foreign Language Incentive Pay
• Opportunities for Professional Development
• Berkshire Athenaeum Employees Association Collective Bargaining unit

Priority Consideration (1/31/2026)

Deadline for priority consideration: 31 January 2026