Library Assistant - Adult Reference; Part-Time

Overview

Responsible for providing reference assistance to York County Library patrons. Assists patrons in research and activities with independently performing research for reference requests. Participates in the selection of library materials. Instructs patrons in the use of automated catalog, electronic resources and other reference materials and equipment. Assists in the development and execution of adult library programming.

Job responsibilities may include any of the following, depending on the incumbent’s functional assignment. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of job functions, but a representative sample of the type and level of work that is expected in this position.

• Performs research to answer reference questions either by telephone or in person for adults, young adults, and children; provides reader advisory services for patrons.
• Assists patrons requesting interlibrary loan service; implements interlibrary loan transactions; fills loan requests from other libraries; places holds/reserves on books for patrons.
• Participates in collection development for assigned area; reads reviews and recommends materials; recommends out-of-date materials to be weeded; reads shelves and shifts materials to maintain a neat and orderly library.
• Instructs patrons in the use of automated catalog, electronic resources, and other reference materials; instructs patrons in the use of computers, photocopiers, and other equipment.
• Participates in weekly inventory control projects.
• Reserves the group and individual study and meeting rooms.
• Tracks reference department statistics.
• Maintains equipment associated with reference needs to include sound system and audio visual equipment.

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Must be able to work a continual floating schedule as needed. Work schedule will include some nights and weekends. Must have good organizational skills and be able to deal with the unexpected. Personal computer experience using Microsoft Office Suite and the Internet necessary.

• Thorough knowledge of standard office practices and procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of basic mathematics to include addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• General knowledge of business English, depending on the particular assignment.
• General knowledge of procedures and practices common to a public library system.
• Some knowledge of record keeping and reporting.
• Some knowledge of personal computers, including some knowledge of word processing.
• Some knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.
• Knowledge of basic library procedures, methods and techniques.
• Effective oral communication skills.
• Ability to evaluate work procedures and to exercise appropriate judgment in prioritizing workload.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships, and the ability to deal tactfully with the public.

Must be physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including office equipment such as computers, calculators, copiers, etc. Work involves some lifting of boxes of books and/or periodicals, and pushing, and pulling of a hand cart or other type of cart.

The County of York offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees to include medical, dental, and vision insurance, health savings accounts, VRS retirement, group life insurance, deferred compensation, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, paid holidays and paid leave.