Under the general direction of the Circulation Supervisor, the Circulation Assistant is a key part of the library team, ensuring that every patron has a positive and welcoming library experience. This role involves assisting with memberships, accounts, and physical library materials, contributing to the library’s mission to support community engagement and access to knowledge.
Check Also: Switchboard Cashier Admitting Clerk Jobs in British Columbia
Primary Responsibilities:
- Customer Service: Check in and check out library materials at the public desk, responding to questions and concerns in person and over the phone.
- Membership Management: Register new members, update existing accounts, and renew memberships as needed.
- Fines and Fees: Assess, collect, and record fines and fees in accordance with library policy.
- Request Management: Handle public requests and process Holds in a timely manner.
- Reporting: Ensure that customer requests are processed daily and reports are generated and completed on schedule.
- Material Processing: Assist in the physical processing and maintenance of library materials, ensuring they are properly shelved and available for patrons.
- Team Support: Assist in training circulation staff and help maintain the orderly functioning of the department.
- Physical Demands: Lift boxes weighing 20-25 pounds, set up meeting rooms, and handle materials for delivery.
Benefits:
- Standard Hours:
Since numerous libraries operate during standard business hours, you may have the opportunity to relax on weekends and evenings, thereby facilitating a well-rounded lifestyle. - Part-Time and Flexible Schedules:
Certain positions may provide part-time work or flexible hours, which could be an ideal choice for individuals who are juggling family responsibilities, studies, or other part-time jobs. - Competitive Compensation and Benefits:
Circulation Assistants in Manitoba generally receive a reasonable salary, particularly when employed in public libraries, despite the fact that salaries may fluctuate based on experience and location. - Benefits Package:
Full-time positions may be accompanied by a benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. - Customer Service Skills:
The position of Circulation Assistant provides an opportunity to cultivate strong communication and customer service skills by routinely engaging with library patrons. - Organizational Skills:
By overseeing circulation processes, monitoring library materials, and guaranteeing that all items are in their proper place, you can enhance your multitasking and organizational capabilities. - Technology Proficiency:
You will acquire an understanding of library administration software, digital cataloging, and a variety of library apparatus, including self-checkout systems. - Community-Oriented Position:
Working in a library entails participating in a community-driven environment that fosters the education, knowledge, and well-being of others. - Supportive Team Environment:
Numerous libraries cultivate a collaborative, team-oriented work environment that provides an opportunity to collaborate closely with colleagues who are equally enthusiastic about public service, education, and literature. - Progress in One’s Professional Life:
Beginning as a Circulation Assistant can provide access to more advanced library positions, including Librarian, Library Technician, and Library Assistant, with the completion of additional education or training. - Professional Development:
Numerous libraries offer training, seminars, and certifications that can assist in the advancement of your career and the expansion of your knowledge in library sciences.
Qualifications:
- High school graduation or equivalent combination of training and experience.
- Successful completion of a Library Technician program is an asset.
- Previous customer service experience is preferred.
- Strong communication skills (oral and written) and the ability to interact effectively with the public.
- Basic keyboarding and cash-handling skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with a team.
- Must be physically capable of performing the duties of the position (lifting, setting up meeting rooms, etc.).
Conditions of Employment:
- Must maintain legal eligibility to work in Canada.
- A satisfactory Police Information Check is required.
- Must be able to work evenings and weekends as necessary.
Why Join Us?
As a Circulation Assistant, you’ll play an important role in enhancing the library’s services and ensuring that our patrons have access to the materials they need in a welcoming, well-maintained environment. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to your community while developing your skills in a supportive, team-oriented setting.
Conclusion:
This revision aims to improve the original job description by enhancing its clarity, transparency, and focus on the reader’s needs. By adding specific information about the library’s mission, team culture, and the role’s contribution to the library’s success, potential applicants can better understand the importance of the position and its fit for their career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does a Circulation Assistant do?
In Manitoba, a Circulation Assistant is employed in a library or related setting, where they are responsible for a variety of duties, including the following: the checking in and checking out of library materials, the shelving of books, the maintenance of the library catalog, the assistance of patrons in locating resources, and the operation of library apparatus. Additionally, they may provide assistance with administrative tasks, event organization, and patron registration.
Are Circulation Assistant jobs full-time or part-time?
Positions for circulation assistants in Manitoba may be either full-time or part-time, contingent upon the requirements of the given library. Larger libraries or institutions often offer both part-time and full-time positions.
What qualifications are required in Manitoba to become a Circulation Assistant?
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for the position of Circulation Assistant. Additional education, such as a diploma in Library and Information Technology or Library Science, may be necessary for certain positions. This position necessitates exceptional organizational abilities, customer service experience, and communication abilities.
