Historical Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position is assigned to the Georgia Room, the genealogy and local history research room located within Charles D. Switzer Library in downtown Marietta. The successful candidate will assist patrons with genealogy and local history research through the use of print and digital reference materials, will participate in community outreach and may assist with programming. This position works 18 hours per week, plus 4 hours from 1:00–5:00 p.m. on scheduled Sundays.

Provides customer service to library patrons and the public: greets visitors and directs to areas of library; provides assistance and information related to library services, fees, procedures, city information and directions, or other issues; researches book titles, book availability, patron records, or related information; reserves materials for patrons; notifies patrons about overdue books, arrival of reserved books, or other issues; and assists patrons with the use of various library equipment in assigned area.

Returns library books and materials to appropriate shelving areas: shelves or places materials in appropriate order; reads labels to ensure materials belong to assigned branch and are arranged in proper order; and locates materials and searches for missing materials as needed.

Checks library materials in and out: operates the library's automated circulation system to charge, discharge, and renew books; counts paperbacks checked out; retrieves books from book drop; inspects materials for damage and withdraws materials in need of repair from circulation; inspects for routing slips or other identification prior to shelving; routes books to other locations as appropriate; sorts and arranges materials on book carts for shelving; and separates new books for display.

Performs general tasks related to library operations, which may include sorting and organizing donated paperbacks and other materials, moving book carts, maintaining general appearance of library, cleaning counters, watering plants, or running various errands.

Monitors inventory levels of library supplies: initiates requests for new or replacement materials.

Answers the telephone: provides information and assistance; takes and relays messages or directs calls to appropriate personnel; and returns calls as necessary.

Provides computer and reference assistance to library patrons: assists patrons in finding required information; instructs patrons in use of various library systems and resources; suggests appropriate internal and external resources for queries; and conducts informal training, as needed.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree is required; supplemented by one year of experience in customer service or related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting your own genealogical or historical research via databases, archives, and other methods; or assisting patrons with such research.
• Familiarity with genealogy databases such as Ancestry and FamilySearch, as well as other history research resources such as microform.
• Experience planning, supporting, or facilitating educational programs and/or community outreach initiatives.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex research concepts.

Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation.

Sensory Requirements

Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.

Environmental Factors

Essential functions are regularly performed without exposure to adverse environmental conditions.

EEO Statement

Cobb County Government is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.