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Library Student Worker Handbook

Customer Service Guidelines

Represent the library in a professional manner by following the guidelines below.

  • Be attentive to patrons.
    • Look up and meet the eyes of all patrons.
    • Smile and verbally greet all patrons who visit the service desk.
    • Ask, “Is there anything I can help you with?”   
  • Be visible to patrons. You are here to help them.
  • Be present at the desk. Don't wear earbuds or headphones, talk to friends for a long length of time, be on the phone, etc.
  • Keep the desk clear of food and personal items. You can eat in the staff break room or elsewhere in the library.
  • Only library staff can be behind the service desk. Do not allow friends and others who do not work here behind the service desk.
  • Treat patrons with respect. Be a good listener and provide the best service possible. If a patron becomes agitated, refer the patron to a librarian.
  • Refer patrons to the librarian on duty if you do not know the answer to a question. View "What questions to answer" for more information.  Not sure who to ask?  Check the desk schedule for the full time person to ask.
  • If a patron asks why a certain policy exists or requests an exception to a library policy, refer the patron to a librarian or student manager.
  • Be a good teammate. Demonstrate that you are dependable, hard-working, respectful, and kind.
  • Maintain privacy by not giving out information, such as contact information and library loan details, about staff and patrons.

When to Call a Supervisor

Call your supervisor if:

  • patrons are verbally abusive toward you or anyone else.

  • patrons have questions regarding circulation policies.

  • patrons are upset or pressure you to do something that is against circulation policies.

  • patrons make you feel uncomfortable for any reason.

  • You have any question about how to help someone