Seasonal Library Intern - Community Engagement Department

Under the close supervision of manager, will perform general duties to support Community Engagement team and library initiatives, such as shelving, support of programming and outreach endeavors.

• Shelve and shelf read all library materials.
• Move large quantities of materials from place to place for purposes of preparing to shelve or to shelve.
• Place materials in alphabetical order for shelving.
• Check books, periodicals, audio visual equipment, and other library material for damage.
• Setting up and breaking down Bookmobile visits. 
• Assist patrons with basic library questions (find collections, use the catalog, print materials/use copy machine, hand off to staff for help with accounts).
• Help promote KDL services at Outreach events and activities by assisting with the following forms of patron support:
  • Issuing Library Cards
  • Programs
  • Accessing digital Collections
  • E-Reader usage
  • BookMyne app.
• Assist with Summer Reading program activities as needed.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

• Physical agility to push/pull fully loaded book carts/trucks weighing up to 150 pounds, retrieve or place materials above shoulder or below knee level, and lift/carry materials/furniture weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to follow oral and written directions.
• Ability to learn library book shelving system and sort/file materials alphabetically.
• Communication skills necessary to deal with the public in a courteous and cooperative manner.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) desired.
• Access to reliable transportation to and from work.
• Visual acuity required to accurately read written materials.

• Generally will work within a normal office environment, with minimal discomfort due to extreme temperatures, dust, and noise.
• Occasional exposure to out of doors during programming and outreach events.
• Work hours may be varied, including evenings and weekend hours.
• Frequent sitting/standing in one position for extended periods of time.

Kent District Library is committed to the use of evidence-based selection hiring practices to ensure the recruitment of highly qualified candidates. As part of this commitment, we utilize pre-employment assessments that are scientifically validated and job-related. These assessments are designed to objectively evaluate candidates' skills, abilities, and potential for success in specific roles.

Legal Compliance:

1. Non-Discrimination: All pre-employment assessments used by our organization comply with federal anti-discrimination laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). We ensure that these assessments do not disproportionately exclude individuals based on race, color, sex, national origin, religion, disability, or age.
2. Job-Relatedness: Our assessments are developed and validated to measure skills and traits that are directly related to the job requirements. This alignment with job duties is in accordance with the Uniform Guidelines on Employee Selection Procedures (UGESP), which provide interpretive guidelines to ensure equitable and non-discriminatory hiring practices.
3. Objectivity and Fairness: By using professionally developed and validated assessments, we enhance the objectivity and fairness of our hiring process. This reduces the likelihood of unconscious bias and increases the accuracy of hiring decisions.

Evidence-Based Approach:

1. Data-Driven Decisions: Our selection process relies on measurable data, such as performance metrics and structured interview results, rather than intuition. This approach ensures that hiring decisions are based on objective, verifiable evidence.
2. Continuous Improvement: We regularly review and update our assessment tools to ensure they remain valid and reliable. This ongoing evaluation helps us maintain high standards in our hiring practices and adapt to evolving job requirements.

By adhering to these principles, our organization strives to create a fair, equitable, and legally defensible hiring process that attracts and retains top talent.

The library employment environment typically requires extensive computer keyboard and mouse activity, in-person, electronic and telephone communication skills. Meeting attendance at various branch and service center locations is expected; self-identified mode of transportation is required. The preparation, loading and carrying or moving of materials is commonly required for all KDL positions. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.  

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Recruiting and hiring practices are based solely on job-related criteria. If you require assistance or special accommodations during any part of the application process, contact the Human Resources Department at humanresourcesemail@kdl.org or 616-784-2226.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person assigned to this job. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties that may be performed by a person so classified.