Job Description

The Quinte West Public Library inspires learning, literacy, creativity and connection. We are a two branch system, with locations in Trenton and Frankford, striving tirelessly to offer our community the best possible library experience. Successful candidates will demonstrate skills in library programming, technology assistance, and excellent customer service throughout the hiring process.

Position: Circulation Assistant (LA2)
Department: Circulation and Technical Services
Reports to: Customer Service Supervisor

Purpose & Scope:
The Library Assistant (LA2)’s perform a wide range of roles and responsibilities that pertain to engaging library users in the best library experience we can offer.

This position is fluid and flexible serving a dynamic public library environment. The LA2 serves all members of the public with enthusiasm, tact and compassion. As front-line staff, this position will proactively engage library users in positive interactions that will provide an excellent library experience.

As an essential part of a customer driven team, this position will be well informed and passionate about the programs, events and services offered by the library.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Circulation:
• Rove throughout the library proactively assisting Patrons at the point of contact.
• Perform circulation duties accurately:
◦ Check in and check out of library materials; including processing Courier, sorting and holds.
◦ Applying routines for Readers advisory; including requests for reserves and interlibrary loans.
◦ Printing, Copying and Computer and Microfilm assistance.
◦ Handling payments for print/copying, merchandise; including balancing the float.
◦ Sign up and renew library members; including online requests.
◦ Gathering material on the pick list.
◦ Answer circulation email.
◦ Book POD rentals.
◦ Resolving patron issues.
◦ Other duties may be assigned.

Technology:
• Provide technology assistance to patrons.
◦ Printing, Photocopying and Computer assistance including Pay Station; scanning, basic internet searching and form filling, microfilm search, email and attachments.
◦ Assist and instruct patrons on the use of self-service technology, including self-check out, catalog, App, website and databases.
◦ Assist patrons with personal portable devices, as required.
◦ Assist patrons with equipment and services offered in the library makerspace, as required.

General Responsibilities:
• Perform opening and closing duties
• Keep current with and promote Library Services, Programs and Events
• Understand and promote Databases and Partnerships
• Ensure adherence to library policies, including Health & Safety, Code of Conduct, Personnel and Circulation.
• Seek out training opportunities to grow Library skills and knowledge.
• Maintain all displays to merchandise library materials.
• Return and straighten furniture and displays to assigned spots daily.
• Dust, vacuum and wipe down tables when needed.
• Contribute to projects as directed.

Representing the Library:
• Greet and assist patrons in a warm, welcoming respectful manner.
• Accept changes in the workplace with optimism; as opportunities to learn and grow.
• Use de-escalation techniques to address difficult customer service situations.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding library user information.
• Demonstrate loyalty and commitment to the organization.

Above-noted duties are representative of a typical position and are not to be construed as all-inclusive.

Contacts:
This position will have direct contact with:

Internal: All Library staff.
External: General public.

Education/Specialized Training/Skills:
The position will require:
• A minimum of a High School diploma.
• Good communication skills and the ability and enthusiasm to promote the Collections and Services of the library.
• Good computer skills, tech savvy and able to troubleshoot technology issues for library patrons.
• A commitment to excellent customer service.
• A commitment to self-directed learning and skills development.
• A commitment to a culture of teamwork and collaboration.
• Flexibility and a positive attitude towards an evolving workplace.
• Knowledge of and interest in books and reading with skills to deliver good reader’s advisory.

Nice to have:
Although not required, the following would be considered an asset to the position:
• Library specific post-secondary education

Work Experience:
• A minimum of six (6) months’ of experience in customer service is required. Experience in a public library setting is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in assisting with technology.
• Demonstrated experience in excellent customer service.

Decision Making:
This position requires sound judgment in decisions affecting the accuracy and quality of work assigned.

Work Environment:
• Potential to work at both locations and travel between them.
• Work in a retail type environment on a regular basis.
• Some work duties may require limited time outdoors.
• Work daytime, evening and weekend shifts.
• Be able to lift 35 lbs.

Personal information and any supporting material are collected and administered in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). We thank all applicants who apply but advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The Quinte West Public Library is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes and work environments. We will accommodate the needs of applicants under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 613-392-2841 ext. 1106 or hr@quintewest.ca to ensure your accessibility needs are accommodated throughout this process. Applicants will be required to consent to the completion of a criminal reference check and the completion of a driver’s abstract, if deemed a requirement of the position. The City of Quinte West does not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select candidates in its recruitment processes. All applications are reviewed and assessed by Human Resources staff and the hiring manager.