Willard Public Library is hiring: Part-Time Archives Department Library Assistan

Part-Time Library Assistant/ Archives Department

COMPANY DESCRIPTION: Willard Public Library is a public library famous for personal service and treasured special collections. The library opened its doors in 1885 and is the oldest library building in the state of Indiana. Located at the corner of Lloyd Expressway and First Avenue, you cannot miss our gracious Gothic-style building in the middle of a 3.5-acre park. The library has a Children’s Services department, an Adult Services department, an Archives department, and a Genealogy and Local History department.

JOB DESCRIPTION: We are seeking a part-time Library Assistant to support the Archives Department. This role involves helping patrons with historical and genealogical research, retrieving and organizing archival materials, maintaining accurate records, and assisting with digital and print publications. The Library Assistant will also contribute to the department’s outreach efforts by creating social media content and assisting with exhibits and events. Ideal candidates have strong customer service skills, attention to detail, and an interest in history. This position requires flexibility, including evening and weekend hours, and the ability to handle and organize delicate archival materials. If you are passionate about preserving the past and helping others explore it, we encourage you to apply!

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: High School Diploma

JOB FUNCTION: Performs circulation, reference, interlibrary loan, and technical service functions related to the operations of the Archives Department.

JOB DUTIES:

I. Circulation

• Conducts routine circulation tasks; checking-in and out, updating patron files, updating bibliographic files, and shelving returned material.
• Retains accurate statistics of circulation transactions.
• Assists patrons with locating and using library resources and materials.
• Provides extensive reference assistance to patrons in person, by telephone, or via email.
• Retains accurate statistics of reference transactions.
• Retrieves archival materials when requested.

III. Technical Service

• Processes Archives acquisitions.
• Conducts Archives indexing and organizing.
• Produces and distributes Archives Department publications, handouts, fliers, and exhibits as directed by the Archivist.
• Updates the Archives Department portion of the Willard Library website as needed.
• Sends copied or scanned archival material to researchers or via interlibrary loan as necessary.
• Participates in the materials selection and de-selection process.
• Answers the departmental telephone in a courteous, professional manner and routes all incoming calls to the appropriate department or individual or takes and relays a message as required and/or requested.
• Assists the Archivist with and attends Archives Department events and programs as necessary.
• Attends workshops, library meetings, and seminars as requested by the Archivist.
• Recommends supply ordering to the Archivist.
• Performs other duties as required and other tasks as necessary.

V. Social Media

Creates and manages social media content to promote Archives Department events, resources, and services.

EQUIPMENT: Computer and Peripherals, Telephone, Photocopier, Cash Register, and Calculator.

CRITICAL KNOWLEDGE: Written and Oral Communications, Outstanding Knowledge of Circulation Procedures, Database Searching, Computer Skills (PC Windows-based Software in Local Area Network Environment), Good Rapport with Patron and Colleagues, Ability to Shelve Any Given Library Material, and a Strong Public Service Attitude.

CRITICAL SKILLS:

• Physical: Able to lift 25 lbs above head with arms fully extended; lift and correctly shelve 100% of Archival materials consistently; able to shelve materials on 0” – 120” high shelving, requiring the ability to bend, squat, reach above head, climb 3’ vertically, and balance on 11” diameter step stool and ladder tread; consistently read 10-point font from 24” away; ability to do any or all of the following as needed for up to 8 hours with no more than two 20 minute resting intervals and one 60 minute resting interval: sitting, standing, walking, using computer keyboard, mouse, and monitor, reading, and writing.
• Mental: Spoken and written English language comprehension at high school level; perform basic Boolean searching; able to arrange numbers in ascending order and correctly alphabetize; able to consistently follow at least 3 verbal or written instructions without cues or repetition.
• Verbal: English language delivery at high school level.
• Written: English language delivery at high school level.
• Technical: Able to perform basic functions on a PC; proficient with MS Word and Excel, proficient with social media content creation and Canva preferred.

NOTE: This is a Part-time position. This includes weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and evenings. Hours dependent on budget allocation but is typically scheduled for up to 20-24 hours per week.

If you prefer to apply in person, you may bring your resume and three professional references to the front desk on the main floor. Please request a formal application at the desk or complete and bring the downloadable application below. No phone calls, please.