The Bernardsville Public Library is seeking two part time Readers’ Services Assistants to join a welcoming team at the Circulation Desk. In addition to traditional circulation desk duties, Readers’ Service Assistants manage ready reference questions, provide readers’ advisory, help with merchandising and materials display, support marketing campaigns, and assist with projects.
We are looking for people who are focused on customer service, have a knowledge of books and are comfortable working with computers. Experience with Polaris or Leap highly desirable. Must be physically capable of kneeling and bending to locate items.
Schedule will include 12-15 hours over two or three scheduled weekdays and an evening, plus rotating weekend shifts. All staff members may be asked to fill in as substitutes from time to time.
Starting salary is $15.30/hr, with increase to $15.60 after successful completion of training. Benefits include paid sick and vacation time plus contributions to the State of NJ Defined Contribution Retirement Program (DCRP).
Submit your resume and letter of interest to Laura Cole lcole [at] bernardsvillelibrary.org or Bernardsville Public Library, 1 Anderson Hill Rd, Bernardsville NJ 07924. Applicants will be considered until positions are filled. No phone calls please.
Position Description - Readers’ Services Assistant
Responsible for proper functioning of circulation services and designated patron services under supervision of the Readers’ Services Manager.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB
- Performs circulation desk duties: Charge and discharge material, issue library cards, reserve items, review interlibrary loan requests, respond to patron account questions, record financial transactions, make change, empty book drop, and shelve books and other materials.
- Assist patrons in finding information and resources.
- Provide readers’ advisory services by developing knowledge of the library’s holdings, and locating and recommending books for patrons.
- Explain library policy to members of the public and to other libraries as needed.
- Understand how to use the catalog and other online resources. Provide instruction in their use to patrons, staff and volunteers.
- Assist patrons with printing and computer questions.
- Open and close the library as scheduled.
- Straighten books on shelves and perform general shelf-reading duties as assigned.
- Attend staff meetings and training as required.
- Work on projects as assigned by the Readers’ Services Manager or Director.
- Participate in additional assigned responsibilities.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the general public and to maintain effective working relationships with other library staff.
- Knowledge of library and library procedures. Experience with Leap / Polaris highly desirable.
- Familiarity and comfort with computers and other electronic devices.
- Ability to maintain established library records and files.
- Knowledge of books -- background in literature helpful.
- Strong organizational ability.
- Ability to comprehend, analyze and interpret policies and procedures of the library.
- Proactive customer service orientation.