Library FAQs

Fax: (309) 543-2715

E-mail: Info

The Havana Public Library District is committed to providing excellent and personalized service to our patrons via a relevant and easily accessible collection of resources.  We strive to serve our entire community and welcome all abilities, ages, ethnicities, gender identities, races, religions, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic backgrounds. We support the educational and recreational needs of this community and dedicate ourselves to the pursuit of lifelong learning.  As the oldest library in the county, the Havana Public Library District pledges to acquire, safeguard, and promote the use of local historical materials.

To submit a FOIA request by mail, mail to:

Vanessa Hall-Bennett, FOIA Officer
Havana Public Library District
201 W. Adams Street
Havana, IL 62644

To submit a FOIA request by e-mail, contact Vanessa Hall-Bennett.

FOIA fees apply to commercial FOIA requests.

Clerk Job Advertisement

Posted 3/18/2024

Help wanted!

The Havana Public Library District seeks a friendly, collaborative, and organized part-time Library Clerk to work 12-15 hours per week. This is a minimum wage position with no benefits. The Havana Public Library is an equal opportunity employer.

About Havana Public Library District:

Established in 1898, the Havana Public Library District serves a service population of 5923 patrons.

Our mission is providing excellent and personalized service to our patrons via a relevant and easily accessible collection of resources. We strive to serve our entire community and welcome all abilities, ages, ethnicities, gender identities, races, religions, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic backgrounds. We support the educational and recreational needs of this community and dedicate ourselves to the pursuit of lifelong learning. As the oldest library in the county, the Havana Public Library District pledges to acquire, safeguard, and promote the use of local historical materials.

Our district encompasses the same territory as the Havana School District. On average, we serve over 9000 people per year and circulate 18,000 items. The Havana Public Library District is currently open Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Job Description Summary:

Under close supervision, the Library Clerk performs automated circulation of library materials in accordance with established library system policies and procedures. The Library Clerk also sorts, shelves, and retrieves library materials. Performs other duties as assigned.

All employees of the Havana Public Library District must staff the public desk using the library automated catalog, maintain patron confidentiality, exercise independent judgment, and provide skilled, efficient and courteous service to the public. All employees maintain constant contact with the public to explain and interpret established policies and procedures relating to the library. All employees are expected to maintain and present a positive and constructive attitude regarding the library, its employees, and its role in the community.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Interacts with the general public on a daily basis to circulate library materials; explains and interprets established basic policies and procedures relating to the library.
• Understands and implements the electronic library catalog; performs basic search functions and keeps accurate patron and circulation records. Creates new library cards and card records.
• Performs any combination of circulation related duties such as interlibrary loans, overdue notice processing, notification of reserve materials, processing of lost or damaged materials, processing of periodicals, and other circulation duties as assigned.
• Calculates and receives payments for printouts, fines, etc.
• Sorts and shelves materials in accordance with established classification systems. Checks shelves for overdue materials. Empties book drop and indoor book bin. Discharges materials according to library procedure.
• Assists patrons with computers, microfilm machines, etc.
• Operates and maintains general and specialized office equipment, such as computers, fax machines, printers, copy machines, scanners, multi-line phone system, etc.
• Opens and closes the library for business in accordance with Havana Public Library District policy and procedure.
• Participates in regular staff meetings and attend professional training as required.

Required Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Uses emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills to provide excellent customer service to all library patrons
• Demonstrates the ability to maintain patron confidentiality
• Understands and supports the mission and priorities of the Havana Public Library District
• Knowledge of or ability to quickly learn SirsiDynix Symphony Workflows, the electronic program that staff use to manage patron accounts and perform common tasks like circulation, cataloging, etc.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Publisher, and Powerpoint
• Proficient in basic computer skills such as file saving, internet browsing, and printing
• Competent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to follow library policy and procedure
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks
• Ability to work both as a team and independently
• Must be available to work a set schedule
• Must provide own transportation to and from work

Physical Demands:

The physical demands listed below are representative of those that must be met by any employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Constant physical activities that include but are not limited to bending, carrying, grasping, pushing, reaching, sitting, squatting, standing, and walking
• Good speaking, hearing, and visual abilities
• Lifting up to 50 pounds and pushing library materials carts of up to 100 pounds

How to Apply:

Resumes with cover letters should to be sent to Director Vanessa Hall-Bennett at the Havana Public Library District, 201 W. Adams St., Havana or emailed to director@havana.lib.il.us