Children’s Area Assistant

GREENVILLE COUNTY (SC) LIBRARY SYSTEM

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, NO. 2025-042

FUNCTION

Under direct supervision, this position:

• Embodies the Library’s code of service by creating an atmosphere where customers and coworkers feel invited, informed, impressed and inspired.
• Greets customers and coworkers with a welcoming smile, and enthusiastically provide knowledgeable and meaningful assistance in the discovery and use of Library resources, services and technology.
• Performs work under general supervision, in accord with the Library’s vision and mission, using good judgment in the application of policies and established procedures.

MINIMUM TRAINING & EXPERIENCE

• High school graduation or high school equivalency certificate (GED).
• Experience working with the public in a customer service position

Preferred:

• Experience working in a library or formal learning environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must have the ability to:

• concentrate for long periods of time
• speak clearly and distinctly
• hear and/or comprehend verbal communication
• see and interpret all job-related materials
• operate library equipment as assigned
• lift up to 25 pounds and frequently push book carts weighing over 100 pounds
• move, setup, fold, and stack tables and chairs
• sit for long periods of time
• stand for long periods of time
• walk, bend and stoop
• reach, grasp and use hands to touch, handle, or feel
• type on an ongoing basis for long periods of time, using both hands
• tolerate low levels of dust and mold associated with working around books and other library materials

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED

These tasks are illustrative only; to carry out the day-to-day functions of the job, other duties may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or logical assignment to the position. Essential job functions designated with (E).

• Provides general circulation services, including registering new borrowers, updating patron records, placing holds, checking out materials, etc. (E).
• Uses online integrated system to process discharges (Main Circulation & Branches), fill or clear holds, place or receive items in transit, and maintain accurate status of items. Includes processing of system-generated reports (E).
• Sorts library materials and shelves them according to their established filing arrangement (E).
• Collects and maintains appropriate records of fines and fees (E).
• Assists patrons with use of print reference resources, with identifying and locating library materials, with using the library system catalog, with searching the Internet, and with using online databases (E).
• Checks arrangement of materials on shelves to assure they are in proper order (E).
• Retrieves library materials as requested (E).
• Assesses library materials for mending or repair needs or consideration for discard/replacement (E).
• Assists customers with current mobile device technology and assists them in downloading and/or accessing the Library’s online digital materials such as eBooks. (E)
• Communicates and enforces the Library’s Code of Conduct and other policies, procedures, and rules to customers. (E).
• Instructs and demonstrates use of library equipment as needed (E).
• Performs preliminary acquisition and bibliographic searching.
• Moves and arranges collections of library materials under supervision (E).
• Assists with preparing story time props, laminating, etc.
• Assists with setting up and breaking down programs spaces as needed. (E)
• Cleans and dusts library equipment, materials and shelving; assists in keeping the library clean and neat (E).
• Follows safe work methods to prevent injury (E).
• Performs tasks in accord with library mission and brand essence behaviors (E).
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance and remains compliant with the Library System’s Attendance Guidelines. (E)
• Performs other related duties as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS/ABILITIES & CHARACTERISTICS

(Testing of computer skills will be part of the interview process for this position.)

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of basic computer, mouse and keyboard use.
• Cursory level of knowledge of Windows operating system, MS Office, various Internet browsers and email.
• Knowledge of business English, spelling and arithmetic.

Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to operate and care for computers and their peripheral equipment, e.g. RFID pads, barcode readers, printers, etc.
• Ability to learn, the Library’s integrated system software, i.e. an automation system used to manage Library processes.
• Ability to demonstrate to customers the use of the library’s website, including the online catalog and databases.
• Ability to use Windows operating system, MS Word and Excel, various Internet browsers and email to perform common tasks on the computer.
• Ability to learn and demonstrate the use of current mobile device technology to assist customers in downloading and/or accessing the Library’s online digital materials such as eBooks.
• Ability to communicate concepts, general information and task-related information in oral, written and electronic forms.
• Ability to learn, implement and maintain complex filing systems including the Dewey Decimal System with a high level of accuracy.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of customer records, security related incidents and other identifiable customer uses of Library resources and services.
• Preferred: Bilingual – English/Spanish skills.
• Preferred: Touch typing skills.

Characteristics:

• Works well in a team environment.
• Enjoys working with people and possesses a strong commitment to customer service.
• Establishes rapport with others in person and on the telephone, and maintains effective working relationships with customers and coworkers.
• Uses good judgment and discretion in carrying out duties and responsibilities.
• Works calmly and effectively in stressful situations and in a sometimes noisy and chaotic environment.
• Follows established procedures and instructions received from supervisor.
• Possesses strong organizational skills and is detail oriented.
• Performs routine tasks efficiently and without difficulty.
• Is receptive to feedback, willing to learn and embraces continuous improvement.
• Takes ownership of work, does what is needed without being asked, and follows through until task is resolved.
• Punctual, works hours as scheduled and maintains a good attendance record.