Public Services Assistants Job Description

Surrey Libraries seeks bright, energetic and enthusiastic applicants to work on-call in all ten of our locations. 

The Casual Public Services Assistant performs a variety of duties related to providing exceptional customer experience to maintain efficient, welcoming and inclusive library operations.  Examples include:

  • answering queries relating to general library service as well as member accounts
  • checking materials in and out of the system; collecting fees
  • answering basic information and readers’ advisory queries
  • handling incoming and outgoing materials.
  1. Answers general queries in the branch or community, assisting the public at the point of contact.
  2. Checks library materials in and out of the system, including using automated tools. Sorts, shelves and cleans library materials.
  3. Deals with member queries, completes registrations and resolves issues relating to accounts, programs and events.
  4. Collects and records payments of fees and fines.
  5. Answers basic information services, basic readers’ advisory, and other inquiries.
  6. Handles incoming and outgoing materials.
  7. Locates and retrieves materials, such as holds and traces.
  8. Assists with use of and access to library resources, equipment and technologies. Performs minor troubleshooting.
  9. Participates in collection maintenance duties, e.g. shelf reading, processing and discards.
  10. Assists in preparing a variety of visual media e.g., displays, signage, etc. and in 
    promoting library services, initiatives and merchandise.
  11. Assists with tasks related to program setup, takedown and delivery.
  12. Keeps library in neat and orderly condition.
  1. Basic knowledge of library resources and collections, as related to the work performed.
  2. Knowledge of computer hardware and software applications, and online resources related to the work performed
  3. Excellent customer service skills including strong problem-solving skills required to interpret needs and offer solutions.
  4. Excellent spoken and written communication skills. 
  5. Ability to complete monetary transactions. 
  6. Ability to maintain good working relationships with other staff. 
  7. Ability to meet physical demands of the work including safe handling of materials. 
  8. Ability to work positively in a fast paced and challenging environment. 
  9. Ability to work with flexibility, creativity, initiative, and accountability.
  10. Ability to learn new technologies, applications and software, processes and skills.
     
  1. Completion of secondary school or equivalent.
  2. Accurate keyboarding speed of 35 words per minute.
  3. 3 to 6 months work experience in customer service.