Law Library Intern

Position Summary 

Kalamazoo Public Library offers a unique internship opportunity for pre-law, law, and library science students in Michigan’s only law library located within a public library setting.  This internship provides students with opportunities to provide research assistance and connection to additional community resources for individuals seeking information on a wide range of legal issues to include landlord tenant rights and responsibilities, divorce, child custody, etc. under the direct supervision of the Lead Law Librarian.  

Duties and Responsibilities 

Greets and assists patrons throughout the entire library, assessing patron needs and referring to appropriate staff as needed.  

Provides direct patron service at Law Library service desk; helps locate materials, answer questions and instruct patrons in use of all Law Library resources.   

Processes and shelves new materials for Law Library collection.  

Monitors use of Law Library collection through daily statistics.  

Assists in collection and development of ready reference, brochures and search fact materials.  

Assists with programs and outreach; including set-up, clean up, staffing stations and providing general assistance as assigned. 

Supports the application of library policies using an inclusive professional approach and alerts appropriate staff members or security for assistance when needed. Completes incident reports accurately and promptly. 

Stays informed of library news and events via review of all forms of library communication: website, email, myKPL, Prism, and library newsletters.  Contributes content as appropriate. 

Participates in staff meetings and training opportunities as required.  

Performs other duties as assigned. 

Other Duties and Responsibilities 

Serves on workgroups/committees and participates in initiatives as requested. 

Minimum Qualifications 

Currently enrolled in a degree program in law or library science.  (Related fields may be considered) 

Demonstrates general understanding of public library services and practices.  

Ability to communicate effectively with others. 

Demonstrates inclusive customer service skills.  

Ability to work well with a diverse population.  

Ability to maintain discretion in handling matters of patron privacy. 

Evidence of excellent attendance, punctuality, and dependability.  

Demonstrates proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 applications.  

Preferred Qualifications 

Currently seeking a post graduate degree in library science or law. 

Physical demands and work environment  
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

Physical demands:  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to move within workspaces and patron areas of the library. This position requires frequent positioning of self to collect and shelve materials. Occasionally requires maintaining stationary position for desk work. Frequent movement of material loads up to 25 lbs. Frequent use of computer. Must be able to distinguish material and classification details at close range. Must be able to communicate effectively. 

Work environment:  Work will be performed in public and office spaces within the library and in the communities served.  Some work and local travel outside the library maybe required for curbside service and outdoor events While performing the duties of this job outside of the library environment, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time.  The noise level in the work environment is generally low to moderate.  

Salary  
Starting wage - $18.20 an hour 
 
Schedule  
20 – 25 hours per week, including evenings and Saturdays.  
 
Available  
Immediately  

A current application, resume and cover letter are required for consideration.  Application information can be found on our website at www.kpl.gov/jobs/.  
 
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.