Library Associate (Part-time)

Description

Under general supervision, provides professional customer and information services through reference interviews, research and bibliographic instruction, technological training and assistance, and promotes the library’s collection and services through classes, events, and other programs and activities. Reports to the Library Manager or Library Services Coordinator.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.

Essential Job Functions

• Conduct reference interviews and research, which requires a broad knowledge of print, non-print and electronic resources, to determine the most complete and efficient method or source in order to satisfy the information needs of customers; develop appropriate search strategies to respond to ambiguous and/or complex search requests; may respond to system-wide requests for assistance with difficult reference questions to satisfy the customer’s information needs; and demonstrate an awareness of materials, current events, trends and popular authors to respond to the information needs of customers.
• Respond to complex and/or recurring information requests by creating and maintaining supplementary information files such as bibliographies and ready reference files to have the information readily available.
• Instruct users in the use of the library catalog, electronic resources, print and non-print materials and library equipment to enable them to use the library resources independently; and interpret, explain and apply library policy and procedures to respond to customer concerns.
• Instruct and assists users with the public computers and other library technology and equipment.
• Process requests and provide information to customers about their circulation records and materials request to meet borrowing needs; search and update circulation system; and check materials in and out and register customers to maintain an accurate database.
• Refer customers to and/or directly contact, community, state and national agencies and organizations, if required, to satisfy the information needs of customers.
• Provide training to staff and volunteers to orient them to their tasks and responsibilities.
• Plans guidelines for tasks, organizes projects and performs duties in circulation, reference and public services.
• Develops and maintains the collection, processes items for rotation between facilities; reassigns, rotates, and shelves items; suggests purchases for the branch and system.
• Prepares statistical and financial reports for levels of service in reference, public usage, program participation, financial fees for lost inventory and equipment use. Coordinate with City Treasurer’s Office for legal collections.
• Plans and coordinates classes, events, and other programs and special events, (e.g. story times, summer reading, etc.).
• Analyzes and assesses any risk factors associated with the facility and surrounding environment that may impact the safety of the public or staff due to weather conditions, power outages or unpredictable behavior from individuals and thieves.
• Secures the facility, including making sure the building is clear of patrons, equipment is turned off and alarm is activated.
• Electronically locates, modifies or creates bibliographic records for materials of various formats according to professional standards and practices.
• Assists in the daily review of new books/audio for circulation to ensure compliance with library practices and standards.
• Assists in maintaining and updating the library catalog and collection; repairs or discards damaged or obsolete material.
• Produces spine labels with appropriate genre, collection or award information according to library standards and practices.
• Monitors current and forthcoming reading and format trends to anticipate and meet patron needs; ensures required material is handled with priority.
• Acts on technical problems, then implements and utilizes all new hardware and software information in order to maintain and upkeep laptop and desktop computer.
• Performs related work as required.

Required Qualifications

A combination of higher education and/or experience equivalent to 5 years, 1 of which must have been in a library setting or closely related customer service field; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Requires a valid driver’s license.

Supplemental Information

• Knowledge of library routine and procedures.
• Knowledge of library bookmobile routines and procedures.
• Knowledge of library techniques, systems, and working manuals associated with bookmobile programs.
• Knowledge of OPAC, the library’s filing system and various types of informational materials in the library.
• Knowledge of bookkeeping and/or accounting/clerical practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of the reading levels and interests of City residents served by the bookmobile.
• Knowledge of the geography of the City.
• Knowledge of literature for juveniles, young adults and adult patrons.
• Skilled in data entry, typing and operating general office equipment.
• Ability to use standard library methods and principles in bibliography, circulation and reference services.
• Ability to use a variety of office machines. Is able to follow established procedures and to perform work requiring some detail.
• Ability to instruct patrons in the use of various office machines, computer programs and library reference materials.
• Ability to express ideas effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain statistical records and prepare clear reports from them.
• Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with library patrons and the general public.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by work assignments.
• Knowledge of books, magazines, and related materials available to the public.
• Ability to follow established procedures and perform work requiring some detail.
• Ability to instruct patrons in the use of various office machines, computer programs and library reference materials.
• Ability to effectively express ideas orally and in writing. Is able to exercise tact and courtesy in frequent contact with City employees, City officials, professionals, and the general public.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by work assignments.
• Ability to compare and/or judge the readily observable, functional, structural, or compositional characteristics (whether similar to or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people or things.
• Ability of speaking and/or signaling people to convey or exchange information. Includes receiving assignments and/or directions from supervisors.
• Ability to read a variety of informational and legal documents, City and state codes, law books, etc. Requires the ability to prepare correspondence, memorandum, opinions, contracts, notices, petitions, etc. Must be able to speak with poise, voice control and confidence, and to articulate information to others.
• Ability to plan work and develop procedures; to learn and/or evaluate complex information in order to make judgments and decisions.
• Ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, to follow oral and written instructions. Must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in a variety of technical or professional languages including legal and municipal terminology.
• Ability to utilize mathematical formulas; to add and subtract; multiply and divide; utilize decimals and percentages.
• Ability to inspect items for proper length, width and shape.
• Ability to deal with people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Must be adaptable to performing under stress and when confronted with (persons acting under stress) (emergency situations).