Library - Associate III - STEAM and Innovation Zone Specialist

Description:

JOB SUMMARY

The Farmers Branch Manske Library is seeking a full-time Library Associate 3, specializing in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and Innovation Zone development and programming. This position will be responsible for leading the development, implementation, and promotion of innovative STEAM programs and services, with a focus on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and digital literacy within our community. Additionally, this role involves providing readers advisory services and assisting patrons at the service desks as needed.

Hours worked per week: 40

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITES

An individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily.

STEAM Program Development and Innovation Zone Management:

• Develop and coordinate engaging STEAM programs and activities for all age groups, including children, teens, and adults.
• Collaborate with community partners, educators, and STEAM professionals to create dynamic and relevant programming.
• Oversee the operations of the Innovation Zone within the library, ensuring its functionality and accessibility to patrons.
• Manage equipment, resources, and technology within the Innovation Zone including 3D printers and other STEAM tools.
• Provide assistance and support to patrons utilizing the Innovation Zone.

Readers Advisory and Circulation Support:

• Provide readers' advisory services to library patrons, recommending books, resources, and materials based on their interests, reading preferences, and age.
• Assist and engage with patrons at the service desks, providing reference assistance, reader guidance, and program information.
• Assist with circulation desk duties, including checking materials in and out, issuing library cards, collecting fines, and shelving returned items.
• Provide courteous and efficient customer service to patrons at the circulation desk, resolving issues and answering questions related to library services and policies.

Outreach and Promotion:

Promote STEAM literacy and the Innovation Zone through outreach activities, presentations, and partnerships with local schools, community organizations, and businesses.

• Develop marketing materials and promotional strategies to raise awareness of STEAM programs and services offered by the library.
• Actively engage with patrons to assess their needs and interests, and tailor programming accordingly.

Staff Training and Support:

• Provide training and support to library staff on STEAM-related topics, resources, and technology.

Serve as a resource person for staff inquiries related to STEAM programming.

Evaluation and Assessment:

• Collect and analyze data to evaluate the effectiveness of STEAM programs and services.

Conduct surveys and gather feedback from patrons to assess satisfaction and identify areas for development.

Knowledge and Advancement

• Know, understand, and administer the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement, and Freedom to View Statement, recognizing that freedom of access is a fundamental tenet of a public library. In addition to these freedoms, support client discretion of materials available at your local library.
• Follow all legal and policy requirements related to patron privacy and custodianship of patron records.
• Continuing Education and Professional Development
• Actively pursue opportunities for professional development to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Attend workshops, conferences, webinars, and training sessions related to library management, grant writing, and operations.
• Share insights and best practices gained through professional development activities with colleagues to foster a culture of learning and innovation within the library.

Requirements:

JOB REQUIREMENTS

An individual should possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed and meet the amount of education, training and/or work experience required.

• H.S. Diploma or GED required. Bachelor’s degree in education, STEAM-related field, or equivalent experience preferred.
• 2 years of experience working in a library or education setting, with a focus on developing and delivering STEAM programs and services.
• Strong knowledge of STEAM concepts, principles, and educational trends.
• Experience managing maker spaces, innovation labs, or similar collaborative learning environments preferred.
• Proficiency with technology and software relevant to STEAM education.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Creative, innovative, and enthusiastic about promoting STEAM literacy for adults and youth

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to frequently move from place to place within the location; file and retrieve books and other items on high shelves.
• Lift/push up to 25 pounds and occasionally up to 35 pounds. of heavy boxes, books, and equipment; work in confined spaces; walk; bend; stoop; reach; and climb.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Tuition Assistance
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Wellness Resources

EEO STATEMENT

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.