The New York Public Library
The New York Public Library is hiring: Peer Youth Branch Library Assistant - Was
The New York Public Library, New York, NY, US
Job Description
Job Description
Description
Required Education, Experience & Skills
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Overview
Do you love books and connecting people to resources? The New York Public Library has been an essential provider of free books, information, ideas, and education for all New Yorkers for more than 100 years. As a Peer Youth Outreach and Programming Assistant at The New York Public Library you will do that and much more.
Do you love books and connecting people to resources? The New York Public Library has been an essential provider of free books, information, ideas, and education for all New Yorkers for more than 100 years. As a Peer Youth Outreach and Programming Assistant at The New York Public Library you will do that and much more.
A Peer Youth Outreach and Programming Assistant position is meant to give you knowledge about what it means to work within a library system. You will have access to a wealth of knowledge and experience which will allow you to decide if the library is where you want to begin your career. We are looking for candidates that demonstrate a strong work ethic, are reliable and possess excellent written and verbal communication skills. You will be expected to be an ambassador for the Library, so a friendly demeanor goes a long way.
The Peer Youth Outreach and Programming Assistant position is scheduled for 18 hours per week, including evenings and Saturdays. Schedules are variable based on Library needs and may be subject to change.
Responsibilities
Under the direction of the Branch Manager and Youth Specialist, the Peer Youth Outreach and Programming Assistant:
Under the direction of the Branch Manager and Youth Specialist, the Peer Youth Outreach and Programming Assistant:
- Projects a positive and courteous attitude to the public by providing exceptional customer service in a fast-paced and friendly environment
- Assist with developing, promoting, facilitating and evaluating innovative programs to meet the expressed and anticipated needs of the community’s young adult population including reading clubs, homework help, instructional workshops, STEM and literacy programs, gaming, summer reading events, maker programs and a variety of other programs both in the Library and throughout the community
- Assist Youth Specialist with outreach to and developing partnerships with community based organizations, schools and local businesses to promote the Library’s services (e.g. MyLibraryNYC, the Library’s partnership with NYC schools), programs and collections with a focus on young adults
- Assist with building and maintaining a diverse young adult collection which includes, staying on top of reading trends, offering recommendations, shelving and arranging library materials in order alphabetically and numerically
- Learn and assist a Librarian with answering patron inquiries, offering resource recommendations using print, media and digital resources
- Assist patrons with basic computer, internet and audio/visual equipment usage as well as assist in encouraging digital literacy and providing age-appropriate technology instruction to young adults
- Assist with promoting the Library’s services
- Co-facilitate team meetings with other Library Pages to collectively cultivate ideas to enhance service and share learning opportunities
- Locate and prepare library materials requested by patrons
- Assist staff with checking materials for damage and removing them from the shelves
- Help set up public spaces for events and programs
- Navigates customer interactions and escalates issues to the manager
- Perform other related tasks as needed
Required Education, Experience & Skills
Required Education & Certifications
- Must be in first year of college, or entering second year
- Proper employment certificate for minors under 18 as required by NYS law
Required Experience
- Experience working and engaging with members of the public
- Experience with various technology platforms
Required Skills
- Ability to accurately and efficiently sort and arrange items in alphanumeric order
- Strong organizational skills and ability to follow detailed instructions in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent customer service skills and the ability to work with a diverse patronage
- Superb interpersonal and communication skills; which includes written communication.
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
- Demonstrated reliability and professionalism
- Basic computer and basic technology skills such as Microsoft Office Suite and Google Applications
- Proficiency with social media
- Ability to troubleshoot basic computer and printer issues preferred
- Competence in Microsoft Office products, including Word, Powerpoint and Excel
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Availability to work evenings or weekends as necessary
Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities
- N/A
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Core Values
All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:
All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:
- Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
- Be Resourceful in solving problems
- Be Curious in all aspects of your work
- Be Welcoming and Inclusive
Work Environment
- Public Library setting
Physical Duties
- Moderate lifting required (up to 25 lbs)
- Pushing book trucks
- Shelving at various levels
- May require travel within NYC
Pre-Placement Physical Required?
No
Union/Non Union
Non-Union
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Schedule
No
Union/Non Union
Non-Union
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Schedule
- The Peer Youth Outreach and Programming Assistant position is scheduled for 18 hours per week, including evenings and Saturdays. Schedules are variable based on Library needs and may be subject to change. Availability to work evenings or weekends as necessary