South Branch Patron Assistant (Part-Time, 9 hours per week)

Are you looking for an opportunity to serve the public in a diverse community Would you like to be part of a talented team working together to create an engaging and trusted space that provides valued resources to the community The Mount Prospect Public Librarys South Branch location is seeking a part-time Patron Assistant to help us staff our busy public service desk.

While being bilingual is not required the ideal candidate would speak either Russian or Spanish and have customer experience to help our many patrons who speak these languages.

In this role you will staff the public service desk to assist patrons of all ages with a variety of library and information needs. This includes checking materials in/out; recommending and helping patrons find books movies and other library materials; assisting patrons with library equipment (computers printer/copier scanner/fax); and answering questions to connect patrons with the information and resources they need. This position may also assist with library programs outreach events and other projects.

SCHEDULE:(approximate average of 9.25 hours per week)

• Monday 4pm to 7:30pm
• Tuesday 4pm to 7:30pm
• Every other Saturday 10:30am to 3pm

BENEFITS

• Paid time off
• Paid holidays including a birthday holiday
• Dental life and pet insurance

PURPOSE

Under the direct supervision of the South Branch Assistant Manager the South Branch Patron Assistant is responsible for providing patron services to children teens and adults at the public service desk. Primary duties include providing a range of information services and basic computer/office equipment troubleshooting as well as performing circulation and registration functions. Additional duties include support tasks as assigned such as compiling reader aids assembling materials displays maintaining files and assisting with programs. The position involves extensive contact with the public within the library and the Village of Mount Prospects Community Connections Center.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES:

This position comprises of the following essential duties:

1. Public Service (approx. 90%)

Other non-essential job duties may include material handling tasks serving as an in-charge leader when needed representing the Library and special projects.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Public Service

• Applies MPPL values-based customer service
• Assists patrons in person on the telephone and online with basic reference referral readers advisory and technology inquiries in English and Spanish.
• Monitors the behavior and conduct of patrons to ensure an atmosphere conducive to the use of the branch and library resources for all patrons
• Provides appropriate reference and readers advisory services
• Executes basic/in-depth electronic bibliographic and informational searches using online and in-house database sources
• Assists patrons at the public service desk in locating materials in physical and electronic formats
• Assists patrons at the public service desk with all circulation and registration functions
• Registers patrons for new library cards; updates library card records as needed
• Registers patrons for library programs
• Assists patrons with the use of public access equipment in the public service area
• Performs basic computer and office equipment troubleshooting
• Assists with outreach visits programs and school visits as assigned
• Performs basic computer and office equipment troubleshooting in the public service area
• Performs opening and closing duties as needed
• Collects money for fees and issues refunds as required

Materials Handling

• Checks in sorts arranges print and non-print materials to make ready for reshelving
• Inspects and cleans materials
• Checks in in-house materials in the ILS as assigned
• Shelves books and other materials in appropriate places
• Maintains shelves by straightening shifting and organizing materials as assigned

Other

• Provides departmental clerical and administrative support
• Plans and executes collection displays in coordination with other departmental staff
• Works collaboratively with Village of Mount Prospect staff in the shared Community Connections Center building
• Attends appropriate meetings workshops and seminars
• Serves on committees as assigned
• Serves as in-charge staff as needed
• Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

1. High school diploma (or equivalent education and/or work experience) required.
2. Work experience in a public setting desirable.
3. College coursework or degree desired.
4. Library experience a plus.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS & ABILITY

Knowledge & Ability

• Ability to access input and retrieve data from the computer
• Ability to reach bend push pull grasp lift kneel crouch stoop and carry up to 20 lbs
• Ability to carry library materials weighing up to 20 lbs
• Ability to use the English language correctly both verbally and in writing
• Ability to alphabetize correctly and to understand numerical arrangement utilizing the decimal point
• Ability to stand for varied lengths of time from 2 - 6 hours
• Ability to operate a telephone
• Ability to read library material spines and labels in order to comprehend and put in correct order
• Fluent in verbal and written English and proficient in Spanish
• Ability to handle and process cash and/or cash register.
• Knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office applications
• Knowledge of interactive web applications and email
• Knowledge in the use of the Integrated Library System
• Knowledge of online search strategies
• Knowledge of reference/service interview techniques
• Knowledge / skill in the use of electronic reference tools
• Knowledge of literature popular fiction and non-fiction
• Knowledge of library policies and procedures

Behavioral Skills

1. Attention to Detail. Able to follow detailed procedures and ensure accuracy in documentation and data; concentrate on routine work details and organize and maintain a system of records.
2. Communication. Able to clearly present information through the spoken or written word; read and interpret complex information; talk with customers or clients; listen well.
3. Customer Focus. Able to demonstrate a high level of service delivery; do what is necessary to ensure internal and external customer satisfaction; deal with service failures and prioritize customer needs.
4. Flexibility. Able to remain open-minded and change opinions on the basis of new information; perform a wide variety of tasks and change focus quickly as demands change; manage transitions effectively from task to task; adapt to varying customer needs.
5. Policies Process & Procedures. Able to act in accordance with established guidelines; follow standard procedures in crisis situations; communicate and enforce organizational policies and procedures; recognize and constructively conform to unwritten rules or practices.
6. Supporting Diversity Equity and Inclusion. Able to adapt behavior to others styles; interact effectively with people who have different values cultures or backgrounds; optimize the benefits of having a diverse inclusive and equitable workforce.
7. Teamwork. Able to share due credit with coworkers; display enthusiasm and promote a friendly group working environment; work closely with other departments as necessary; support group decisions and solicit opinions from coworkers; display team spirit.