Part-time Library Assistant - Midlothian

POSITION PURPOSE: This is a part-time position. Under the general supervision of the Dean of Libraries, the Library Assistant performs semi-technical library work and provides information services at the library facility at the Midlothian location. The Library Assistant may occasionally be asked to work at the Waxahachie library location. **POSITION PURPOSE:** This is a part-time position. Under the general supervision of the Dean of Libraries, the Library Assistant performs semi-technical library work and provides information services at the library facility at the Midlothian location. The Library Assistant may occasionally be asked to work at the Waxahachie library location. **GENERAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:** - Give general information to the public by phone and e-mail. - Must be able to use a number of the functions of the library’s online catalog/management system, e.g., charging and discharging books, creating and updating patron records, placing and removing holds, receiving fines and crediting payment, issuing overdue notices, etc. - Refer patrons with in-depth reference queries to one of the professional librarians as necessary. - Answer basic directional and reference questions posed by patrons. - Effectively engage patrons to precisely define and address their needs. - Aid library patrons in locating specifically requested items, e.g., books, videos, government documents, recordings, etc. - Assist patrons in submitting internal location and interlibrary loan requests. - Prepare books and other materials for mailing. - Offer basic instruction in searching online catalogs and databases. - Perform other duties as assigned by the Dean of Libraries. **KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:** - Basic knowledge of search techniques using the internet, licensed databases, online catalogs, etc. - Must exhibit poise, tact, and professional competence in interactions with students, faculty, staff, and other library patrons. - Must have a firm grasp of when it is appropriate to refer patrons to the professional library staff for assistance. - Must have the interpersonal skills necessary to offer help and instruction to patrons with widely varying levels of experience of and familiarity with library materials and services. - Understanding of and willingness to comply with library and college policies and procedures - Excellent written and verbal communication skills. - Must be self-directed; able to work without supervision and independently develop efficient approaches to assigned tasks. - Must be extremely detail-oriented, organized, and methodical. - Must be able to handle a number of tasks simultaneously. - Must be able to work collaboratively with co-workers. - Must be able to engage with patrons in such a way as to determine precisely what their needs are and then assess the most effective means of addressing those needs. - Basic understanding of fundamental library principles, methods, techniques, and procedures. - Good keyboarding skills and the ability to operate a computer to organize and retrieve information. - Proficient in use of MS Office applications. - Ability to maintain a professional demeanor in all working relationships. - Ability to employ basic analytical and problem-solving skills. - Must be alert to the needs of students with disabilities and assist them in an efficient, thoughtful and caring manner. - Basic knowledge of the Library of Congress classification system. **POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:** Required: - High School diploma or equivalent. - Will consider any equivalent combination of experience and education, which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Preferred: - Associate degree or two (2) years of college. - Two (2) years of experience in a library or learning resource center work. **WORKING CONDITIONS:** - Variances from regular working hours may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the position. - Busy working environment with numerous interruptions. **SALARY:** $11.0…