Bookstore Clerk

Norfolk, Virginia | JANAF Shopping Center
25-30 hours per week
$16.50 per hour
Tuesday through Saturday availability and occasional Sundays required

About REACH
REACH, Inc. (Reading Enriches All Children) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting literacy by providing children and families throughout Coastal Virginia with access to and ownership of high-quality books.

Located in Norfolk's JANAF Shopping Center, The Big Free Bookstore is a unique, community-centered space where children, families, educators, and community members can discover books, access literacy resources, and participate in engaging activities—all at no cost.

Our team works directly with families, teachers, donors, volunteers, community partners, and the general public to create a welcoming, inclusive, and positive experience for every visitor.

Position Overview
REACH is seeking an enthusiastic, dependable, and community-minded individual to join our team as a Big Free Bookstore Clerk.

This position plays an important role in the daily operations of The Big Free Bookstore, helping guests discover books, maintaining an organized and welcoming environment, and supporting REACH's literacy programs, community outreach, and fundraising initiatives.

The ideal candidate enjoys working with people of all ages, thrives in a fast- and slow-paced environment, and brings a positive attitude, strong communication skills, and a willingness to support a variety of organizational needs.

This is a hands-on position that requires flexibility, teamwork, and a commitment to providing outstanding customer service.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Services & Community Engagement

• Welcome guests and create a friendly, inclusive, and engaging bookstore experience.
• Assist children, families, teachers, and other visitors in finding books and literacy resources that meet their interests and needs.
• Answer questions and provide information about REACH's programs, services, upcoming events, and community resources.
• Provide exceptional customer service by actively listening, addressing concerns, and helping guests navigate bookstore resources.
• Support a positive environment that encourages reading, learning, and community connection.

Bookstore Operations & Inventory

• Assist with daily bookstore operations, including opening and closing procedures as assigned.
• Operate the Square point-of-sale system to process purchases and monetary donations, issue receipts, and troubleshoot basic transaction issues. 
• Handle cash and electronic transactions accurately and responsibly.
• Receive, sort, organize, and replenish books, school supplies, and other bookstore inventory. 
• Maintain attractive, organized, and accessible bookshelves, displays, and guest checkout areas.
• Process, sticker, shelve and document in-store book donations.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment by completing routine cleaning, sanitation, and organizational tasks.
• Follow established organizational policies, procedures, and safety standards.

Fundraising & Community Events

• Assist with weekly preparation for REACH's charitable fundraising activities.
• Provide on-site support during occasional Sunday Bingo sessions, including event setup, guest assistance, and other assigned responsibilities.
• Participate in community outreach events, literacy initiatives, and other REACH-sponsored activities as scheduled.
• Assist with event setup, breakdown, distribution of materials, and guest engagement.
• Represent REACH professionally and positively when interacting with community members, donors, volunteers, and partner organizations. 

Qualifications
Required Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have reliable transportation and the ability to travel to assigned work locations and community events.
• Must be willing to complete required background screening, including applicable local, state, and national criminal history and sex offender registry checks.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally and respectfully with people of diverse backgrounds and ages.
• Demonstrated commitment to providing excellent customer service.
• Basic math, computer, keyboarding, and technology skills.
• Ability to work independently, follow directions, and collaborate effectively with team members.
• Dependability, adaptability, and a willingness to assist with a variety of tasks.
• Ability to maintain a professional and welcoming environment when interacting with children and families.
• Availability to work approximately 25 to 30 hours per week, including occasional Sundays and special events.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in customer service, retail, nonprofit organizations, education, or community-based programs.
• Experience working with children, families, or diverse community populations.
• Familiarity with point-of-sale systems, including Square.
• An interest in literacy, reading, education, or community service.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

This position involves a combination of customer service, inventory management, event support, and physical activity.

Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, including:

• Moving throughout the bookstore and event spaces for extended periods.
• Remaining in a stationary position, including standing or sitting, as required by assigned tasks.
• Lifting, carrying, and moving boxes of books and supplies weighing approximately 10–50 pounds.
• Occasionally bending, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and using small step ladders.
• Performing duties in both indoor and outdoor environments, including off-site community events.

Schedule & Compensation
This is a part-time position averaging 25-30 hours per week, with an hourly rate of $16.50.

The position requires consistent weekly availability to support bookstore operations, fundraising preparation, and other organizational activities. Schedules may be established or vary based on operational needs.

Occasional Sunday availability is required to support REACH's charitable Bingo fundraising sessions. Additional evening or weekend hours may be required for special events and community outreach activities.

Equal Employment Opportunity
REACH, Inc. is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.