CITY OF BOISE
IV-310
LIBRARY ASSISTANT
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Works directly with Library patrons to provide basic circulation services and answer related questions; performs related work as required.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The duties of employees in this class are to provide direct service to Library patrons by checking books and materials in and out of the Library using manual or automated methods, maintaining up-to-date library cards and interlibrary loan requests or locating materials within the Boise Public Library or other libraries. The Library Assistant may be subject to some pressure generated by the need for speed and accuracy while checking materials in and out and by patrons' complaints when required to pay non-resident fees or fines for delinquent or lost materials. Employees in this class follow established library procedures in carrying out assigned tasks with supervisory assistance available for unusual problems. Work is performed under general supervision of a Library division head who checks work for accuracy through review of requests before final processing; or, observation of results obtained and behavior in dealing with patrons. Due to shift schedules, evening and weekend work is required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASS: (Illustrative Only)
Circulation and Related: Checks books and other items in and out of the Library via an automated or manual system; searches for and/or inputs materials and patron information using a computer terminal; issues new and duplicate Library cards; operates a cash register and handles money from overdue fines, lost book payments, etc.; starts up and shuts down computer console on weekends following set procedures; notifies the Legal department of patron delinquencies for possible prosecution; opens the Library building and secures its closing.
General Services, Clerical and Related: Searches Library computer, card catalog and shelves for specific material; answers incoming telephone calls concerning patron records; types file cards, Library cards, interlibrary loan requests to other libraries, notices related to interlibrary loans, and other information; verifies accuracy of bibliographic information on interlibrary loan requests through a computer terminal and/or published resource; notifies patrons of receipt of requested materials by telephone or mail; performs miscellaneous shelving duties.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: (Knowledge and Abilities)
Knowledge of the Dewey Decimal System sufficient to permit basic searching and location of Library materials; of computer systems and their basic operation.
Ability to work independently and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public, including children; to type accurately; to react positively to negative criticism from patrons; to remain standing for extended periods of time; to organize work effectively; to compose letters from general information; willingness to work evenings and weekends.
LIBRARY ASSISTANT (cont’d)
Adopted: 5/80
Revised and Retitled from Library Assistant I: 3/83
Revised: 3/87; 9/90; 03/00