Librarian III - Cataloging

Summary

This full-time position supervises and shares cataloging responsibilities within the Cataloging Unit of the Technical Services Department of the Chester County Library. The Cataloging Unit is responsible for copy and original cataloging of materials in a variety of formats for the 18-library Chester County Library System. SkyRiver is the primary source of shared catalog records, and Innovative Interfaces is the integrated library system.

Position responsibilities include: original cataloging and online editing of bibliographic records from the SkyRiver database according to national and local standards; adding items to existing records in the online library database; and assisting in maintaining the quality of the library database by verifying and using standard forms of headings and by correcting errors and inconsistencies. Additionally, this position supervises and supports four full-time and one part-time staff, including one M.L.S. cataloger.

The position requires an ALA accredited M.L.S. degree and at least 3 years of professional cataloging experience and knowledge of current cataloging standards and practices. Previous experience with Innovative Interfaces, and 3-5 years of supervisory experience is preferred. Excellent oral and written communication skills; a high level of accuracy, organization, and productivity; and the ability to work independently and as part of a team are essential.

All library positions require the following criminal background and child abuse clearances: Report of criminal history from the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP); Child Abuse History Clearance from the Department of Human Services (Child Abuse); and Fingerprint based federal criminal history submitted through the Pennsylvania State Police or its authorized agent (FBI) and credit check. This position requires the ability to obtain a PA Professional Librarian Certification.

Full-Time / Exempt
Shift: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Weekly Hours: 35

Deadline: Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

Criminal background check is required.

State Child Abuse Clearance is required
.
All employees of the Chester County Library are considered a mandated reporter of suspected child abuse under the Child Protective Services Law (Title 23 Pa. C.S.A. Chapter 63).

Essential Duties

• Catalog materials following national and local standards.
• Supervise and plan the work of cataloging staff to facilitate the workflow and provide direction regarding cataloging.
• Serve as a resource for cataloging staff to answer questions about national and local standards.
• Assist in maintaining accuracy, currency and completeness of the online library bibliographic catalog by identifying inconsistencies and suggesting clarifications.
• Train catalogers on cataloging according to CCLS guidelines and inform cataloging staff on any updates in cataloging standards.
• Perform original cataloging, as needed.
• Manage cataloging projects and staff activities.
• Assist with interviewing, hiring and training process of catalogers.
• Review and complete required performance reports to measure productivity and goal achievement.
• Assist with training of system staff in adding item records to bibliographic records.
• Create and update cataloging policy and instructions on the S drive, as needed.

• Participate in library committees, community outreach and individual projects, as assigned, including preparing appropriate reports, guidelines and recommendations.
• Attend conferences, workshops and training sessions to update relevant skills.
• Perform other duties, tasks and special projects, as required.

Qualifications/Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Experience

• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Library or Information Science.
• Ability to obtain a PA Professional Librarian Certification.
• At least three years of cataloging experience,
• Knowledge of national cataloging standards (including Dewey Decimal System, Anglo-American cataloging rules and Library of Congress subject headings).
• General knowledge of library practices and principles.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to public and customer service.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Intermediate skill to use a computer and various software packages.
• PA criminal background check.
• PA child abuse clearance.
• FBI fingerprint-based criminal background check.

• Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited college or university in Library or Information Science.
• Three years of cataloging experience in a public library, with some supervisory roles.
• Sufficient general knowledge to be able to catalog materials in a broad range of subject areas.
• General knowledge of current library technology.
• Easily adapts to changes in the work environment.
• Ability to coordinate and direct work assignments.
• Ability to establish priorities.
• General knowledge and understanding of County of Chester policies and procedures.

Additional Information

Relevant background checks, clearances, physicals, drug tests, and any other assessments or evaluations will be conducted after an offer of employment is given per County policy.

Computer Skills:
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have:

• Intermediate Office Suite Skills, (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Explorer).
• Intermediate Outlook Skills (email and calendar)
• Intermediate Library ILS software skills

• Close vision: the ability to read a PC monitor, often for extended periods of time; must be able to read a variety of print formats, including charts, maps and small print.

• The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.
• Much time is spent on a computer.
• Work is performed inside in an office or public desk environment.
• There will be an occasional need to drive to meetings or events related to business services/activities.