Outreach Program Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Category/Classification: Regular Staff (Non-Exempt), Part-Time &13.00/hour

Reports to: Department Head of Outreach Services

General Summary

Under general direction, the Outreach Department Assistant is responsible for providing library assistance to patrons at assigned outreach facility(ies). Handles supply and clerical duties for the facility to which he/she is assigned.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Performs circulation functions of the library, including registrations, reserves requested material(s), circulates materials and processes overdue fines.
• Assists in scheduling, planning and presenting Outreach programs for pre-school and school-aged library patrons; organizes, schedules and promotes special exhibits and programs. Plans and conducts programs for children that encourage reading, viewing, listening, and use of library materials and facilities. Responsible for reviewing magazines, books, audios and other materials upon delivery for the purpose of familiarizing self with materials, suggest new items and answers reference questions when possible. Refers patrons with difficult or extensive questions to the Reference Department.
• Responsible for the selection, display, and maintenance of brochures, pamphlets, and general community information.
• Maintains ample supplies i.e. books, materials, recreational supplies to effectively operate the reading room.
• Instructs individual patrons and/or groups on the use of the library and its resources such as the Internet.
• Is responsible for maintaining library materials in good order and condition. Shelves materials and reads shelves.
• Participates in inventory process.
• Responsible for data collection and reporting statistical information as required.
• Pursues professional development by attending appropriate meetings and workshops to maintain up-to-date knowledge of pertinent library policies, procedures, and equipment.
• Performs Assistant-level work in other departments, as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

General knowledge of resource and reference materials, particularly those pertaining to children.

General knowledge of children’s books and authors.

General knowledge of the Dewey Decimal Classification System and Library of Congress subject headings.

Ability to provide courteous public service and to present clear explanations of established policies and procedures.

Ability to interact effectively with the Library’s automated system.

Skill at accurately and efficiently sorting and shelving materials in alphanumeric order. Physical capacity to place materials on shelves at all shelving heights.

Ability to work in a team setting. Willingness to assist and support coworkers, contributes ideas, maintain flexibility, and be able to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.

Physical and Mental Requirements

List the physical demands that are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential function of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Frequently standing simultaneously using hand, wrist and fingers;

Occasional sitting, walking, stooping, bending, squatting, reaching overhead or in front of body, and traveling to outside meetings and engagements. Conveying up to 15 pounds. Frequently talking and hearing ordinary conversation in person or by phone in a quiet but sometimes noisy environment.

Education, Certification, Experience, and Training

Must qualify for Librarian Certificate 6 (LC6) - High school diploma or GED with 5 years of library experience or 9 semester hours of required library science courses. Must complete a minimum of 50 Library Educational Units every 5 years, consistent with Indiana State Library regulations.

Interpersonal and communication skills necessary to effectively interact with various library personnel and patrons. Assisting patrons. Reading to children. Maintaining statistical records. Possesses creativity and self-motivation, ability to decorate reading room, attract and retain patrons. Knowledgeable in library operations, procedures, and materials. Working knowledge of public library computer software operations.

The requirements given above are not intended as exclusive standards for this position. Additionally, the duties and responsibilities listed are meant to be illustrative of the nature of the position and do not include all tasks that may be necessary to this job function. Further, individuals may be required to work in other areas and at different functions that those described in accord with changing needs of the library.