Circulation Clerk I (24 hours)

Description:

This is a grade 3, bargaining unit position with a current pay rate starting at $12.75 per hour. Scheduling for this 24-hour per week position includes mornings, daytimes, two or more evenings per week as well as Saturday, and Sunday shifts. Applicants should be friendly, dependable, and customer-service driven. Deadline to apply is Tuesday, March 10, 2026, 12:00pm.

Circulation Clerk I

Grade: 3

Classification: Bargaining; non-exempt

Immediate Supervisor: Circulation Services Manager or Designee

Basic Function:

Circulation Clerks work with the public, a job that is customer service driven and requires a friendly, helpful, and tactful demeanor. Circulation Clerks perform a variety of standard circulation and clerical duties using the Circulation Module of the Library’s integrated software in a busy environment while multi-tasking. Position may be full or part time and is determined by the needs of the library.

Distinguishing Features of the Class:

This classification requires a working knowledge of library techniques including current methods and equipment. The work is performed under general supervision of Circulation Services Manager or designee. Employees assigned to this class are required to provide service in accordance with the Library’s mission, core values, and strategic plan.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performs circulation and borrowing services for patrons – check-ins, check-outs, holds, renewals, transfers, sorting/presorting, materials repair, add brief records (on the fly items), check out WorldCat items, etc.; this may involve creating temporary item records
• Understands and interprets library loan policies and procedures for patrons
• May perform searches and place hold for patrons; refers reference questions to Adult Information Services
• May perform duties of a clerical nature for other departments such as searching patron and circulation records
• Resolves problems with patrons including fines, fees, claims returned, and overdue inquiries. May refer difficult patron issues to Circulation Clerk II or Circulation Manager
• Answers patron queries in person and on the phone, including placing requests and renewal of materials
• Contacts patrons regarding holds and problem items as necessary
• Operates the cash register and handles fax services for patrons
• Processes and inspects audio-visual materials and equipment for circulation
• Operates buffing machine and replaces cases and labeling as needed
• Changes status for items that need various updates
• May weed magazines, periodicals, peripherals, and serials on a monthly basis
• Search for missing items using department reports
• May pull items to fill holds from lists
• May assist patrons in use of PACs and copiers when necessary
• Answers patrons’ directional questions
• Loads and unloads shipping containers and bags of materials for transport between branches
• Moves loaded carts and dollies throughout the library
• Unloads book drops; check in and sorts materials
• May shelve items on the first floor of a timely nature (holds, AV, new books, magazines, etc.)
• Attends pertinent meetings or training courses and undertakes special training activities as directed
• Orates the building’s closing announcements and other overhead announcements as necessary
• Trains and serves as Passport Acceptance Agents
• Maintains neat and orderly work areas

The intent of this summary is to characterize the typical duties and responsibilities that will be required of individual positions assigned to this classification and should not be construed as representing the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may be expected to perform their related duties which are specific to their area that may not be reflected in this class summary.

Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Good communication skills
• Friendly demeanor, diplomacy, discretion, and enthusiasm for working with the general public are essential qualities for this position
• Ability to keep confidential records and perform routine tasks
• Ability to learn library methods, techniques, and computerized databases
• Ability to perform basic keyboarding at 30 wpm
• Must be able to multi-task in a fast paced environment
• Ability to manipulate loaded book carts weighing 300 pounds over carpeted floors
• Ability to lift library materials up to 30 pounds
• Ability to perform repetitive reaching, bending, and squatting daily
• Must display tact and courtesy
• Desire and ability to work as a contributing member of a team environment
• Must possess good judgment
• Attention to detail
• Ability to adapt in a changing environment
• Must display thoroughness and dependability

Education, Training and Experience:

Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience working with public preferred. May require a valid Ohio driver’s license.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL LIBRARY EMPLOYEES

All Mentor Public Library Employees are expected to have and maintain good interpersonal and communication skills; maintain a tolerance and sensitivity to the needs of patrons and staff; maintain a positive and pleasant attitude, and be co-operative with co-workers. All employees shall adhere to the Library’s policies and procedures and support the Library’s mission within the Library and in the community. Employees shall have regular attendance, be flexible with regards to scheduling which includes daytime, evening and weekend hours; and be in adequate physical condition to fulfill the requirements of the job.

This job description explains the nature and level of assignments given to job incumbents. This is not an exhaustive list; therefore other related duties may be assigned.