Library Clerk

Cambridge, Massachusetts

City of Cambridge
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ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES: Under minimal supervision, provide outstanding customer service to diverse patrons of all ages and perform circulation, readers' advisory and clerical duties in all areas of the library.
  • Deliver exceptional and engaging customer service to the public.
  • Maintain orderliness and neatness in the library. Process deliveries; merchandize and shelve materials.
  • Perform circulation and patron account management duties (e.g., checkouts, check-ins, account inquiries, reserves, renewals, fine assessment and collection, patron registration).
  • Assist patrons in locating books and information, and using a wide range of technologies (e.g., desktop computers, laptops, e-readers, tablets, scanners, emerging STEAM technologies, Wi-Fi hotspots), including basic troubleshooting and maintenance.
  • Monitor public areas of library.
  • Communicate and apply library policies and procedures; address and resolve patron issues, referring to other team members as needed.
  • Promote library services and may participate in occasional outreach and programming activities, including setting up and operating audiovisual and STEAM equipment.
  • Participate in trainings and workgroups for planning and implementing projects, programs, and initiatives.
  • Other duties as required for the good of the Library.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience: High school diploma or high school equivalency is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge and understanding of the Library's mission, vision, values and strategic priorities.
  • Commitment to doing all work through a lens of diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism.
  • Strong customer service skills and commitment to public service.
  • Ability to work with a diverse population in an urban setting.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills and a positive attitude.
  • Sound judgment and problem-solving skills, including ability to handle unexpected situations.
  • Strong teamwork skills, including flexibility to fill in during scheduling emergencies and vacation periods.
  • Knowledge of current technology and technological trends.
  • Ability to operate computers, equipment, software and systems.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree or coursework beyond the high school level is preferred. Fluency in a language in addition to English is desirable.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Ability to operate standard office equipment; transport carts of materials which can weigh more than 100 pounds across a level floor or on a ramp; carry baskets of materials weighing up to 30 pounds; pay attention to details and concentrate on tasks despite frequent interruptions and moderate noise levels; communicate effectively and exchange accurate information with coworkers and members of the public; read and organize written material; place library materials on shelves or carts which can be located at floor level or overhead.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work in assigned area, including public desk, office areas, training rooms, and various library locations as necessary. Typical exposure to noise, stress and interruptions in a lively, urban public library. Attend and participate in continuing educational programs designed to keep abreast of changes in profession.

SCHEDULE: The work week is 20 hours, assigned in the best interests of the Library. The schedule may include evening and weekend hours. The initial schedule will be:
  • Monday 8:30-5
  • Tuesday 12:30-9
  • Saturday 12-5
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

Please upload the below documents to complete your application:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
Date Posted: 09 April 2025
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