Position Summary
Reporting to the Library, Archives and Digitization Manager, the Library Assistant is an entry-level position requiring basic knowledge of library and archives practices and procedures. The Library Assistant will work with the library’s supervisor to move and organize the library and archive collections as the library transitions into its new space within the Museum and over to the new classification system. The Library Assistant will provide administrative support to the department and perform a variety of duties related to materials processing, circulation, reference, collection inventory, and database work. In addition to specific library and archives duties, this individual will assist with library programs and events and work directly with the public regularly, answering questions and assisting visitors and staff with locating, accessing, and making effective use of the library’s collections and resources.
Primary Responsibilities
- Welcomes visitors to the new library space, answers visitors’ questions about the library’s collections, locates and gathers library and archives collection resources (physical and digital), and provides guests and staff with access to these resources
- Responsible for opening and closing duties in the library on scheduled days and assists guests with the set up and use of library equipment
- Assists with moving library and archives collections into the new library space and with cataloguing, (i.e. converting to new cataloguing system, retagging books), and inventory work on the library and archives’ physical and digital collections
- Performs physical and digital processing and organization of library and archives materials; generates initial paperwork for new acquisitions; catalogs the library research file collection; shelves materials in appropriate locations following alpha-numeric systems; orders supplies and creates payment requests
- Trains volunteers to assist with library tasks; additional duties as assigned, including programmatic and administrative support to the department
Requirements
- Professional experience in a library setting, either as a staff member or volunteer; basic knowledge of library and archives practices, procedures, and classification systems
- Excellent customer service skills; strong verbal and written communication skills; comfortable interacting with people of all ages, needs, and abilities in a courteous and engaging manner
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail with a strong ability to support administrative needs related to the work of the department
- Self-motivated and able to work independently and collaboratively as a member of a team
- Experience using databases with the ability to learn library-specific software applications
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Google Drive Applications
- Evening and weekend work will be required, as needed
Preferred Requirements
- Associate’s Degree and/or College Level coursework in Liberal Arts, Library Information Systems, or related field
- Familiarity with Mingei International Museum as an institution
- Experience with bibliographic databases and library-specific software applications
- Experience handling rare books and materials
Physical Requirements
- Sit, stand or walk for prolonged periods of time
- Can work in small spaces and pull materials from enclosed storage areas
- Flexibility to reach and lift books/materials overhead; safely use and climb ladders, bend, squat, stoop, and kneel
- Ability to lift and move boxes and move heavy book trucks; Move, grasp, retrieve, shelve, and lift books, materials, equipment, and supplies up to 25 pounds
Salary
This is a full-time (37 ½ hours/week), non-exempt position with benefits, including medical, dental, vision and a 401k, and is paid at $21.33 per hour (approximately $41,600 per year).
Application Process
Please submit a cover letter and resume or CV on the Mingei website. The position is open immediately and will remain open until filled. The person offered the job will be required to undergo a background check. No phone calls or emails, please.
Mingei International Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer