Library Assistant (Bilingual)

Summary

Garland Public Library is seeking a creative and energetic individual with a passion for serving the community to further the Library's mission and goals. Working on the Library's Public Services Team, this position will assist in providing programs, events, and services in Spanish and English language to the Garland community.

This position is responsible for performing a full range of library work, including the performance of a variety of duties involved in planning and implementing library services and programs. Serves as a non-supervisory, library assistant for library public services, interpreting and enforcing library policies when the manager is not present. Also, responsible for analyzing the public's library needs, selecting library material, advising the public in their use of library materials, circulation functions, assisting library users with online resources and technologies, and handling reference and information search requests. This position may also assist in library outreach and engagement.

This position works a schedule that includes some nights and weekends, with some changes to regular schedule required to participate in programming and outreach services. Days, nights, and weekends are required.

Salary: $17.03 - 21.80 (Depending on qualifications)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Plans informative and entertaining programs for all ages by identifying and accessing audiences, recruiting attendees, accessing resources in the collection, and coordinating such programs and outreach events in order to stimulate interest and foster competence in reading, viewing and using information and ideas.
• Assists in assessing community needs and desires for library services and programs, identifies potential facilities and organizations available for partnering, analyzing if there is enough demand for programs and services in order to proactively and reactively develop programs and services for underserved populations
• Assess patron needs and provide assistance using printed materials, automated databases and other library technologies.
• Assist and instruct patrons in the basic usage of the Internet, automated or online services and resources, and other library technologies.
• Assist and instruct library patrons in the use of library equipment, including microfilm reader/ printers, computers, and print management and PC reservation systems.
• Provide excellent customer service to internal and external customers, including dealing with difficult patrons and volatile situations.
• Plan and conduct age-appropriate programming and events to diverse populations.
• Respond and resolve requests for library materials, services and information or refer to librarians as needed.
• Complete special projects, as assigned.
• Assist librarians with collection, development, programs (both in-person or virtual) or library services as needed.
• Assists patrons at the circulation desk when needed.
• Organize and shelve or file materials appropriately.
• Contribute to a positive work environment, take pride in the workplace, and have knowledge, sensitivity and awareness of diverse cultures.

Minimum Education & Work Experience

• Associate's degree or two years' experience working in a public library
• Fluent in Spanish and English
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

Preferred Knowledge-Abilities & Skills

Education/ Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in library studies, library science or related field of study
• Up to 1 year experience in public library
• Experience or background working in a diverse customer service environment
• Working knowledge of library technologies and online resources

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to communicate within all levels of an organization matched with strong verbal, written, presentation, and one-on-one communication skills;
• Strong service orientation with a positive attitude;
• Ability to work independently, be flexible and thrive in a fast-paced work environment;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships; Listens effectively and communicates in concise, tactful, respectful manner both orally and in writing, including proper use of sentence construction, punctuation, and grammar.
• Basic knowledge of the Dewey Decimal Classification system
• Basic knowledge of library automated system functions
• Basic knowledge of library material and information organization systems
• Knowledge of proper public contact and telephone etiquette
• Skill in assisting with circulation desk activities including shelving and retrieving books
• Skill in utilizing Windows-based software
• Skill in resolving customer complaints and concerns
• Ability to organize work for appropriate and timely completion
• Ability to work independently in the absence of the supervisor
• Ability to easily adjust to fluctuating work schedules and work from any library or unit, as assigned

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid Class C Texas driver's license

About Us

Team Garland consists of over 2,200 employees, spanning 700+ different roles! Garland is committed to diversity and inclusion and creating pathways to employment for all. We have an organizational culture of appreciation, development, and growth. Many of our employees choose Garland for lifelong careers. We are guided by the City's Mission, Vision, and Value Statements and a commitment to public service. Team Garland makes a difference in the Garland community every day.

Garland's vision is to be a progressive city working together to nurture and grow the economic, social, environmental, and cultural well-being of our community.

We are committed to preserve public trust, deliver quality services, promote economic growth, protect our community and enhance the quality of life for the good of our city and our future.