Harford County Public Library offers a competitive compensation and benefits package. Starting wage, depending on candidate qualifications, is between $17.54 and $21.78 per hour. This position is eligible for the following benefits: deferred compensation 457(b) retirement plan, pension plan, employee assistance program, voluntary benefits and more.

Position Summary:

The Library Assistant II – Circulation performs a variety of clerical duties related to the circulation of library materials, including but not limited to answering phones, greeting and directing customers, checking materials in and out, registering customers for borrower’s cards and explaining library policies and procedures. Meets minimum public service hours as defined by Library Administration.

Essential Duties:

• Creates a welcoming and friendly environment to encourage repeat visits;

• Checks materials in and out;

• Answers phones and greets and directs customers to appropriate areas;

• Registers customers for library cards;

• Provides orientation to library users and explains library policies and procedures;

• Maintains accurate customer accounts;

• Calculates and collects fines and fees, records monies collected, and issues refunds to customers, as appropriate;

• Performs physical maintenance of the periodical and newspaper collection by processing, labeling, converting, withdrawing, and filing reports for missing issues;

• Cleans, re-packs, re-labels, and recycles library materials;

• Informs customers of library activities;

• Assists in promoting special programs and services to encourage greater use of the library;

• Instructs customers and volunteers on the use of library equipment;

• Operates equipment such as, cash register, debit/credit card machines, receipt printers, etc., to carry out customer service responsibilities;

• Pulls item lists and routes materials to appropriate branch.

Standard Functions:

• Serves on committees and participates in workshops, seminars, and training as requested;

• Notifies Supervisor with suggested ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of personnel and procedures and system-wide goals and objectives;

• Learns new skills and technologies to retain proficiency in areas of expertise;

• Is dependable and punctual;

• Maintains a positive, friendly, and cooperative attitude and provides consistent customer service;

• Upholds all library policies and procedures as defined in Harford County Public Library’s Policies and Procedures Manual;

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

• High school diploma or G.E.D.;

• Six (6) or more months of related experience;

• Ability to work day, evening, and weekends hours.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of library practices, policies, and procedures;

• Ability to create a welcoming and friendly environment encouraging repeat business;

• Ability to learn to operate relevant computer systems, including hardware and software, and office machines;

• Ability to learn to maintain and organize library materials;

• Ability to receive and handle monies;

• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records;

• Ability to be adaptable, flexible and patient with customers and staff;

• Strong customer service skills with the ability to resolve issues;

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written;

• Basic math skills.

Reporting Relationship:

This position reports to the Circulation Supervisor or Circulation Manager. Does not supervise staff.

Work Environment:

• Work requires occasional physical effort in handling of light materials, up to 30 pounds, in non-strenuous work environment. For example, set up and take down of tables, chairs or other equipment for meetings or events, pushing/pulling of library carts.

• Environment includes moderate noises (i.e. an office with conversations, photocopiers, and/or computer printers).

• Work also involves standing or walking up to 60% of the time.

• Requires sitting and use of computer and keyboard for extended periods of time.

• Observes safe work place practices with uncluttered workspace, including office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls, proper lifting techniques and following fire regulations.

• Ability to travel to branch/outside locations is required.

Work Week:

Work schedule includes day, evening and weekend hours.

In addition to the specific duties and responsibilities of this job, it is the responsibility of every employee to comply with the Harford County Public Library’s Values statement, customer service guidelines, and all other policies detailed in the Policies and Procedures Manual.

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job. The library administration reserves the right to change, modify, delete, and supplement job duties based on the organization’s needs.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

This and all library positions are eligible for system-wide transfer.

Harford County Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer.