Library Assistant I/II - Avenal Branch na Kings County, CA

About the Department

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO APPLICANTS: This is a limited recruitment.  This recruitment will close on 09/08/2025 at 5:00 p.m. or once 100 applications are received, whichever comes first.  

There is one current vacancy in the Kings County Library-Avenal for the position of Library Assistant I/II, working Part Time 35 hours per week. Future vacancies for this position may be filled from the eligible list to be established. The life of this eligible list is six months.

This role provides support to library operations by performing a variety of duties such as assisting patrons, checking materials in and out, shelving and organizing library resources, and maintaining accurate records. Works under immediate supervision (Assistant I) while learning library systems and procedures, or independently (Assistant II) with full knowledge of library policies and practices.

Receives immediate or general supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel.  Exercises no direct supervision over staff.  

Library Assistant I: This is the entry-level class in the library assistant series.  Initially under immediate supervision, incumbents perform the more routine duties while learning County policies and procedures and becoming familiar with library systems and practices.  As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence.  Positions at the I-level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods.  Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern.  Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Library Assistant II: This is the journey-level classification in the Library Assistant series.  Positions at this level are distinguished from the I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative.  Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

This class is distinguished from Senior Library Assistant in that the latter is the advanced-journey and/or lead level in the series, and is responsible for performing the more complex, technical library support services.

Positions in the Library Assistant class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II-level are normally filled by advancement from the I-level, after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class.  

Position Duties

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed in a learning capacity for entry-level (I Level) positions.

• Conducts circulation activities, including checking library materials in and out, calculating and collecting fines and fees, and explaining County library circulation policies and procedures. 
• Assists library professional staff with reference duties and children's programming and refers difficult problems to appropriate supervisory or professional staff members. 
• Performs community outreach and education regarding assigned library programs and services; organizes and participates in community outreach events; prepares related flyers and materials. 
• Contacts patrons regarding overdue books and materials; receives, verifies, and releases materials for on-line reserve requests; reserves library materials and notifies patrons of their availability; initiates and processes inter-library loan requests.
• Performs program-specific outreach to identify patron needs, connects patrons to available services and supports, and maintains a services directory.
• Sorts books and related materials according to alphabetical, numerical, and categorical systems; collects, stacks, shelves, and re-shelves library materials; disinfects materials returned to the library prior to returning to circulation.
• Processes library card applications and issues library cards; maintains records of current patron information utilizing the library automation system. 
• Receive, research, and respond to patrons’ reference requests; locates and provides requested materials and information; assists and instructs patrons in the proper use of library equipment and reference sources including internet, electronic databases, and other technology devices. 
• Monitors and assesses the condition of books, audio/visual, and other materials; performs minor mending of materials or refers to others for repair. 
• Assists in identifying materials to be removed from the collection. 
• Assists in the development of a variety of library-related literature-based and educational programs and activities. 
• Oversees circulation activities at remote library branches with limited services and operating hours as assigned. 
• Assists in ensuring the proper maintenance and use of library equipment. 
• Performs standard office support work such as answering telephones, maintaining files, and operating computer terminals and other standard office equipment, orders office and library supplies. 
• Maintains subscription orders and renewals; records receipt of serials. 
• May add books and other materials to library database.
• May serve on committees, task forces, or planning groups.
• May assist with preparations of monthly, quarterly, and annual reports; prepares branch bank deposits and delivers to the Treasurer’s office.
• May assist with preparing displays and creates signs, forms, banners and other public relations materials for library projects, programs and events; may conduct library orientation group tours. 
• Provides training to less experienced staff and volunteers as assigned.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Education:

Experience:

• Library Assistant I: One (1) year of general office or retail experience which must include customer service or public contact duties.
• Library Assistant II: One (1) year of experience at a level equivalent to the classification of Library Assistant I in Kings County.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATIONS

Licenses:

Qualify for security clearance through a background investigation and fingerprint check.  Ability to work irregular hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays, and travel within and outside the County. Ability to travel and work alone at outlying branches. Ability to drive the mobile library. 

Other Qualifications