Part-time Adult Services Assistant
The Adult Services Assistant will help patrons access the library’s print and digital collections and provide reference and reader’s advisory assistance. The Adult Services Assistant will also help patrons use the public computers. Coordinating the home delivery service and the library’s book clubs are other significant responsibilities of the position as are assisting with collection development and adult programming.
The successful candidate must be able to work independently in a busy environment and be comfortable working with patrons of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. A bachelor’s degree and library experience are required. A master’s degree in library science from an ALA-accredited program is preferred.
The Adult Services Assistant will work 23 to 28 hours a week including at least one weekday evening and 1-2 Saturdays a month. The schedule is subject to change based on the operating hours and staffing needs of the library. Additional substitute hours may be offered so flexibility is a plus.
Wage is determined by the Library Director at time of hire and is based on education and experience. Wage range starts at $22/hour. Benefits include paid vacation and sick time and the option of prorated health insurance.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is found. All candidates will be contacted once a hiring decision has been made. Please submit a resume, cover letter, required application, and the names of three professional references to:
Richard “Chip” Schrader, Director
Scarborough Public Library
48 Gorham Road
Scarborough, ME 04074
207-396-6266 (phone) 207-883-9728 (fax)
rschrader@scarboroughlibrary.org
Job Description
Position Title: Adult Services Assistant
Department: Adult Services
Reports to: Adult Services Manager
Date: April 26, 2024
The Adult Services Assistant will help patrons use the library’s collections and computers and will provide reference and reader’s advisory assistance. The Adult Services Assistant will help the Adult Services Manager develop programs, displays, and collections. Other duties include but are not limited to the following:
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Assist the public in the use of all library collections including adult and children’s materials;
Provide individual and group instruction in the use of the library’s digital resources;
Manage the library’s home delivery program for the homebound;
Assist with the development of the adult collections by identifying needs and making recommendations to the adult services manager;
Assist with collection analysis and weeding using accepted guidelines;
Produce bibliographic aides such as reading lists, bibliographies, and resource guides;
Assist in coordinating and developing local databases and directories;
Assist in developing and promoting programs for adults including facilitation of library’s book group(s);
Coordinate displays of library materials to promote collection use;
Promote appropriate behavior and conduct of those using the library;
Assist with opening and closing procedures throughout the library;
Act as the librarian-in-charge when designated;
Perform other duties as assigned;
ACCOUNTABILITY
The Adult Services Assistant reports to the Adult Services Manager who manages the work schedule and conducts performance reviews. Direction may also be given by the Library Director and other department managers. The Library Director is responsible for hiring and firing decisions.
QUALIFICATIONS AND QUALITIES
A bachelor’s degree and library experience are required. An ALA-accredited master’s degree in library science is preferred. Knowledge of reference sources and experience providing reference service is required as is the ability to write and speak effectively.
Computer skills are crucial as the position requires using the internet, Microsoft Office, Digital Maine Library, online library catalogs, cloudLibrary, and other digital resources. A familiarity with a variety of mobile devices and social media tools is highly desirable.
The Adult Services Assistant must be able to work comfortably with patrons of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities, balance multifaceted job responsibilities in a busy environment, show initiative, and exercise independent judgment. Adaptability, and a willingness to learn new skills are key as library services are constantly evolving.
This patron-facing position requires a positive attitude, a desire to enthusiastically promote library resources, and a commitment to providing an excellent patron experience. Strong interpersonal skills are essential to building rapport with library patrons and co-workers.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical demands herein are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee is also regularly required to stand; walk; sit; reach with arms and hands; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel or crouch. Employee must occasionally lift and/or move objects of up to 50lbs and transport loaded book carts and book bags.
Specific vision abilities required by job include close vision, color vision and ability to focus. Employee will frequently use keyboard and computer monitor in performance of job requirements.
WORK SCHEDULE
The Adult Services Assistant will work 23-28 hours a week including at least one weekday evening and 1-2 Saturdays a month. The schedule is subject to change based on the operating hours and staffing needs of the library. Additional substitute hours may be offered so flexibility is a plus.
WAGE AND BENEFITS
Wage is based on experience and education and is determined by the Library Director at the time of hire. Wage range starts at $22/hour. Benefits include paid vacation and sick time and the option of prorated health insurance.