Library Assistant - City of Astoria : Job Details

Library Assistants are responsible for supporting the daily operations of the Astoria Public Library by assisting patrons, helping to organize and maintain library materials and supporting library events. Their duties include shelving items, checking materials in and out, assisting patrons with accessing resources and answering basic questions.

Currently, library operations are in a temporary location as the Astoria Public Library undergoes an exciting transformation! The project is anticipated to be completed in Fall 2025. Follow the building progress at

This is a part time position anticipated to work between 10-14 hours with the current schedule of Monday 9AM - 1PM, Wednesday 11AM - 4PM and on-call shifts. For on-call shifts to cover unexpected absences, we will reach out to see if the on-call person is available and interested in working that day, but understand that it may not be possible on short notice. The hours will depend on operational needs and budget availability. The schedule for this position may adjust when the library renovation project is completed.

INTERVIEWS ARE TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY 26th & 27th.

• Works at the circulation desk, which includes checking library materials in and out, collecting fines/fees, reviewing materials returned for damages and arranging materials for reshelving.
• Responds to inquiries from the public regarding use of the library; explains the use of library facilities, including public catalog computers, photocopy machine, internet and audio-visual equipment; assists patrons with basic reference and other library related questions.
• Reviews/prepares applications and library cards for new users.
• Places books and materials on reserve and notifies patrons when available; handles interlibrary loan service through correspondence with other libraries.
• Shelves books and other library materials.
• Makes minor repairs to damaged library materials.
• Maintain library procedures and techniques.
• Maintains punctual, regular and predictable attendance.
• Works collaboratively in a team environment with a spirit of cooperation.
• Respectfully takes direction from the Library Director.
• Follows policies, procedures, and guidelines as described in the City of Astoria Personnel Manual, Astoria Public Library materials, and other documentation related to this position.

• Ability to provide excellent customer service to a wide variety of library users.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisor and volunteers.
• Experience with computer systems (Microsoft, Internet, and online databases).
• Ability to operate, or learn to operate library computer software systems, library-related databases and social media, and ability to problem solve and troubleshoot same.
• Ability to adhere to the ALA Code of Ethics.
• Ability to communicate effectively and deal tactfully and courteously with the general public.

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Ability to perform essential job duties with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to safety or health of employee or others. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Employees must be able to physically perform all duties of the Library Assistant role which includes standing, sitting, walking, lifting, crouching, and balancing. Employees regularly lift and move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and move up to 30 pounds. Work is generally performed indoors, in a library setting. Work is completed on multiple floors requiring the use of stairs or elevator. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.