Circulation Assistant, BiblioTemps (Lawrence Library) (Pepperell)

BiblioTemps® is an employment service of the Massachusetts Library System that provides experienced library workers for temporary placements in public, academic, and special libraries throughout Massachusetts.

Location: Lawrence Library (Pepperell, MA)

Position Type: Temporary

End date: June 30, 2026

Schedule: Tuesday - Friday 10AM – 4PM, Saturday 10AM – 2PM

Pay Rate: $21.05 per hour

CORI: Required

Description: The Circulation Assistant handles the check-in and check-out of library materials, manages circulation systems, issues library cards, processes holds and reservations, and assists patrons with borrowing and returning items. Serves as a primary point of contact for patrons visiting the library, providing strong customer service. This position supports the Circulation Coordinator and Director by performing a variety of clerical duties, including processing payments and maintaining patron records. Works at public service desks and computer stations, contributing to the efficient operation of circulation services and performing related duties as assigned.

Supervision: Under immediate supervision of the Circulation Coordinator, with general supervision from the Library Director, performs clerical and library work as required. This position requires working independently and generally working hours that the library is open to the public and other library staff. Work is performed in a library and office setting with moderate noise levels. Frequent interaction with the public and other libraries. Regular use of standard office and library equipment.

Duties:

• Provides excellent public service.
• Performs circulation desk procedures, such as checking in and checking out materials, emptying book drop, retrieving mail, registering patrons and collecting monies.
• Ensures that library patrons can easily access and borrow materials, helping them navigate the library's catalog and using the circulation system efficiently.
• Registers patrons for library cards, communicates policies to patrons, files patrons’ requests or holds, issues fees/fines.
• Checks in deliveries of interlibrary loan materials.
• Maintains a professional and welcoming demeanor to all patrons.
• Assists with library programs and displays.
• Assists patrons with ready-reference questions and reader advisory, bibliographic instruction and database searching.
• Assists patrons with operations of library equipment.
• Answers directional questions and refers patrons to appropriate personnel.
• Helps maintain a safe and secure environment within the library, monitors the library space, enforces library policies, and addresses any concerns related to security, safety, or disruptive behaviour.

Contributes to Maintenance and Accessibility of Collection:

• Processes, withdraws, repairs, or reconditions library materials.
• Shelves library materials and reads shelves.
• Sorts and routes mailed items.
• Prepares and receives delivery of IT materials.
• Assists with donated materials.

Applies Required Knowledge and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of library procedures and policy.
• Ability to operate library equipment properly.
• Keyboarding and filing ability.
• Stays apprised of organizational communications and current library happenings.
• Performs other duties as directed or assigned.

Qualifications Recommended Minimum Qualifications:

• Education, Training and Experience: Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent work experience. Individuals must demonstrate clear verbal and written communications, strong computer literacy, excellent people skills, and possess a demeanor of accessibility and helpfulness. Ability to work both independently and as a team member. Must be physically capable of loading and unloading books into bins for transport. Experience in a library setting and familiarity with the Evergreen system are a plus.
• Knowledge, Ability and Skill: Ability to communicate clearly with patrons, co-workers and supervisors. Ability to follow library policies and procedures, especially as related to issuing library cards, checking out items, collecting fines and fees, and processing new materials. Ability to count and handle money. Ability to work with computer applications including Microsoft Office Software; and troubleshoot office machines.

Physical Requirements: Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and climb for extended periods. Ability to lift, move, or push furniture and equipment (40 lbs or more). Frequent use of hands for handling materials and equipment. Vision and hearing correctable to normal ranges.

Massachusetts Library System (MLS) is an equal opportunity employer. MLS does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, age, marital status, sex, physical or mental challenge, creed, religion, political affiliation, national or ethnic origin, or sexual orientation. Members of underrepresented groups, and those committed to working in a diverse cultural environment are encouraged to apply.

Contact with questions – bibliotemps@masslibsystem.org