PURPOSE

The Reference Assistant is responsible for daily ready reference service at the Reference Desk, providing the initial point of contact and excellent service to all Library patrons.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Staff and assist patrons at the Reference Desk by greeting and registering visitors and answering directional and general reference questions. Respond to patron phone calls and email inquiries.
• Consult with and refer in-depth reference questions to Reference and Research Librarians.
• Circulate and renew library materials, register new borrowers, and run routine patron notices. Assist in reviewing document delivery problem requests.
• Aid patrons in the use of public access computers, printers, and imaging equipment.
• Maintain appropriate statistics, files, and supplies.
• Contribute to Reference Department special projects as needed.
• Other duties as required.

• Undergraduate degree required.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products is a must.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent customer service skills and experience working with the public.
• Ability to function effectively in a team environment.
• Flexibility and the capacity to embrace change in a dynamic and evolving organization.
• Facility for cross-departmental communications and cooperation.
• Previous library experience, familiarity with Library of Congress classifications, knowledge of ExLibris library automation software, background in science and engineering, and familiarity with at least one foreign language are desirable.