Library Specialist

POSITION TITLE:  Library Specialist (Sump and Digital Library)

REPORTS TO: Public Services Manager, Digital Library Supervisor, Youth Services Manager

PURPOSE OF POSITION:  Responsible for a variety of library work to ensure the efficient provision of services to the community.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Assists with customer service duties by answering the telephone, circulating library materials, monitoring library spaces, issuing library cards, etc.; ensures the confidentiality of all patron records.

Answers patrons’ reference questions online, over the telephone, and in person by searching online catalogs, subscription databases, the Internet, and other resources.

Provides general technology assistance to library patrons.

Advises readers; recommending authors, titles, and topics of interest.

Operates standard office equipment in the performance of job duties, i.e. fax machines, copier, personal computer, calculator, sound equipment, tablets and eReaders, etc.

Establishes and maintains positive public relations with the general public, other employees, community groups, local businesses and other area libraries.

Assists with the maintenance of various library materials; shelves materials according to established policies and procedures.

Trains and assists library patrons in the use of the library’s technology resources and digital collections (STEM/STEAM technologies, PCs, tablets, 3D printers, gaming equipment, computer and mobile applications, etc.).

Assists in planning special programs, arranging publicity for special events, composing and disseminating informational materials, and promoting planned events.

Assists with the preparation of displays and a variety of other promotional activities.

Performs administrative duties including the preparation of various reports and records pertaining to the duties performed.

Keeps informed of developing library and technology practices and issues.

Physical presence at the assigned job location is an essential function of this role. This position requires onsite attendance during assigned working hours, with remote work arrangements unavailable. Management may consider exceptions under specific circumstances and in accordance with city policies.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned.

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND ABILITY:

Ability to learn and apply the principles and techniques associated with professional library work, modern library systems and programs.

Ability to learn to utilize computers and software applications as they pertain to library systems.

Ability to learn to perform input and retrieval functions utilizing a variety of computer programs and software, including gaming equipment, 3D printers, laser cutters, STEM/STEAM technologies, and other consumer technologies.

Ability to learn departmental responsibilities and ability to use independent judgment in the performance of duties.

Ability to learn the library collection classification system, circulation and reference methods.

Ability to plan and organize a personal work schedule, set priorities and meet deadlines.

Ability to perform job duties efficiently while managing frequent interruptions.

Ability to learn and operate standard office and media equipment, i.e. DVD player, personal computers, eReaders, tablets, etc.

Ability to type accurately using a word processor and personal computer.

Knowledge of library principles, practices, techniques, and services.

Knowledge of community resources and agencies available to the general public and community groups.

Knowledge of digital library reference resources and tools.

Ability to support and provide service to all patrons.

Ability to maintain patron confidentiality.

Ability to use library principles, methods, and techniques in collection development, circulation, programming, and reference services.

Ability to use and explain the use of library tools and facilities.

Ability to understand and follow both oral and written instructions.

Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, in English.

Ability to communicate verbally, in person, over the telephone, and to electronically answer reference questions and provide reading guidance.

Ability to adhere to safety policies, procedures, and guidelines.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public, community groups, local businesses, other employees, other governmental agencies, and municipal officials.

Ability to maintain regular and dependable attendance on the job, including attendance and job performance for possibly prolonged periods of time when called out on short notice due to weather conditions, emergencies and similar situations of public necessity.

ESSENTIAL EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION AND/OR LICENSES:

Must possess a valid driver’s license at the time of hire.

Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age at the time of hire.

Must possess a High School Diploma or GED.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work is generally performed indoors and requires a considerable amount of physical activity such as walking, standing, kneeling, bending, crouching, reaching, stooping, crawling and dancing.  Work may require routine bending, lifting and carrying office supplies, library books, and other materials.

The incumbent is frequently required to sit for extended periods of time, and to talk and hear at various volumes from soft to loud.  They must have the ability to transport themselves to and from various locations with the library and the city. Hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various other pieces of equipment and collection materials; to use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools or controls, and to reach with hands and arms.

Work hours may occasionally be required in times of darkness.  The incumbent must be able to read small print.  The noise level ranges from quiet to loud, and may be intense depending upon the scheduled activity.

Work requires extensive interaction with the general public, particularly children of all ages, and may be stressful when dealing with patrons and/or meeting deadlines