Library Assistant - Reference Services

The Mahopac Public Library seeks an enthusiastic, creative, and tech-savvy Library Assistant with excellent customer service skills and a commitment to the importance of the library in the community to work in the Reference department. Part-time, nights and weekends [15 -22 hours/week].

Under the guidance of the Head of Reference, you will be required to assist with a wide variety of library tasks, including reference desk duties, computer assistance, and patron support, and should be able to work comfortably with the public and handle the challenges of a busy public library. Basic reference skills and knowledge of Sierra would be a plus.

The successful candidate must enjoy working with adults and children, have great customer service skills and be friendly and approachable with all library patrons and other staff members. Ideally, our candidate must also be reliable and punctual, have good organization skills, and solid computer skills. We are looking for someone who is team-oriented but self-motivated enough to work independently, with minimal supervision when given projects to complete.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Assisting patrons with guidance locating and obtaining materials, and answering reference questions;
• Assisting patrons with computer questions, printing, scanning and faxing;
• Providing customer service and ensuring high operational and service standards;
• Completing additional projects as assigned by the department head, such as shelving material and shelf reading;
• Performing general clerical duties, as assigned; assisting with opening and closing duties;
• Monitoring the second-floor area, keeping it neat and orderly;
• Contributing to a high-quality work culture through participation in training and mentoring to develop skills, including safety related training and skills;
• Performing duties according to Mahopac Public Library Policies and Procedures, and any applicable laws regulated by an outside authority.

The duties above are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

• Microsoft Office Suite;
• Dewey Decimal System;
• Library reference systems

Skill/Ability to:

• Understand and follow instructions;
• Multitask;
• Demonstrate proficiency in both oral and written communication;
• Perform duties in a professional manner and demonstrate understanding, patience and open-mindedness while assisting library patrons who are diverse in age, culture, beliefs, lifestyle, demographics, socioeconomic background, etc.;
• Accurately shelve books and material;
• Operate standard office equipment, including computers using standard word processing, data entry, and library reference software;
• Perform simple mathematical calculations;
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers;
• Interface with other employees and customers in a courteous and respectful manner;
• Project positive support of their department and the Mahopac Public Library at all times;
• Maintain and enhance the Mahopac Public Library’s commitment to customer service excellence.

RECRUITMENT QUALIFICATIONS

Required:  Bachelors’ degree.

PLEASE NOTE: Your degree must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by a regional, national, or specialized agency recognized as an accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education/U.S. Secretary of Education.

Desired:  Previous experience working in a library environment.

Work Environment

Most work is performed in an indoor environment. Must be able to work days, evenings, and weekends. May be required to change schedule to fill in for other staff. Standing or sitting, for long periods of time is required, as is stooping, bending, and lifting as much as forty (40) pounds independently, and pushing a book truck.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Salary: $20.00/hr. - $22.00/hr.

Benefits:

Paid sick/personal days

• Paid holidays
• Paid Family Leave
• Option to enroll in the NY State Retirement System
• Option to enroll in New York State Deferred Compensation
• Option to enroll in AFLAC

This is a Civil Service position.  Permanent appointment dependent upon completion of the Library Assistant examination and score.

If interested, email your resume and cover letter to Hilary Albert, Head of Reference Services, at [email protected] by Friday, August 8, 2025.