Library Assistant - Athens

Job Posting End Date:

06-23-2025

Worker Sub-Type:

Regular

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

20

Come work at a place where innovation and teamwork come together to support the most exciting missions in the world!

WHO WE ARE:

The Marathon County Public Library consists of nine locations throughout Marathon County, Wisconsin, including our Wausau Headquarters, plus branches in Athens, Edgar, Hatley, Marathon City, Mosinee, Rothschild, Spencer, and Stratford.

POSITION SUMMARY:

This is a 20 hour per week position at the Athens Branch of the Marathon County Public Library. 

Serving as a point of contact at the branch library, this position is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service to patrons and library staff. The Library Assistant supports the smooth operation of library services at the branch, including the regular provision of circulation and reference assistance.  The Library Assistant also proactively identifies and applies creative solutions that enhance patron experience and streamline workflows. Working under the direction of the Branch Coordinator, who reports to the Library Services Manager, this role contributes to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the branch library and its services within the community.

Hours can include days, evenings, and Saturdays.  Additional hours to attend meetings, workshops or to fill in for other staff may be required. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Associate's degree preferred, with two years of experience in a public library or related customer service environment. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED:

• Greet and assist patrons, with a welcoming and helpful demeanor.

• Provide basic reference assistance to patrons.

• Assist patrons with all aspects of material circulation, include identifying, locating, and processing check-ins, check-outs, and holds.

• Issue and manage library card registrations.

• Offer guidance and support to patrons in the use of library resources, including books, online catalogs, databases, personal electronic devices, and library computers/software.

• Interpret, explain, and enforce library policies and procedures to public as appropriate.

• Address patron inquiries, providing directional, informational, and technical assistance.

• Process fines, fees, and balance daily cash accounts.

• Retrieve requested materials from shelves based on generated reports.

• Answer and direct telephone calls, taking and relaying messages.

• Monitor severe weather radio and follow established procedures for weather-related emergencies.

• Recommend improvements to processes and procedures to enhance library efficiency.

• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with library staff and patrons.

• Maintain regular and predictable attendance, with flexibility to work additional hours as needed.

• Assist patrons with the use of personal electronic devices.

• May plan and present library programs for various age groups

• Receive, unpack, and process incoming library materials for check-in.

• Perform regular shelf reading to ensure materials are in proper order, scanning, straightening, and verifying correct placement.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Ability to become proficient in utilizing library software, electronic resources, and standard office technology, including Microsoft and Google Suite applications.

• Ability to accurately interpret, explain, and apply library policies, procedures, and standards to various situations, providing clear guidance to patrons and colleagues.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with patrons, staff, volunteers, and community members.

• Ability to follow established procedures in an orderly and logical manner and adhere to prescribed routines.

• Ability to process, calculate, and sum numerical data, and apply the results to practical library-related tasks, such as financial transactions.

• Capacity to manage and prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously and handle a high volume of work effectively.

• Ability to demonstrate passion for working with the public and commitment to providing exceptional customer service with empathy, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude.

• Ability to perform physical tasks requiring kneeling, crouching, bending, reaching, standing, and walking for extended periods.

• Capability to perfor