Library Program Specialist - Outreach

This position is one of several assignments to support Library functions such as reference services, youth services (including planning and providing programs), book selection and ordering, or assistance in branch operation. This position is in one area of assignment but must be able to fill in with other services. Duties often include services such as patron assistance and reader’s advisory, selecting materials, working with volunteers, and maintaining program records and files. Work is performed independently within established guidelines and requires significant technical and paraprofessional library knowledge, attention to detail, and the skills needed to provide excellent customer service when working with patrons. Work is differentiated from the Library Assistant classification by factors such as greater technical knowledge required, responsibility for planning and delivering programs or services, or independence of action in a particular role within the Library. Work is performed under the general supervision of a program supervisor and is evaluated through conferences, reports, quality and quantity of services delivered, and daily observation.

Performs duties in Circulation Department; checking in returned materials and checking out new materials; collects fees; advises patrons of library rules, regulations, programs, and services; and registers new patrons for library cards and updates patron records according to library policy.

Assists users in finding materials and information, provides reader’s advisory, instructs patrons in use of online catalog, answers questions about Library programs and services, and provides technology assistance.

Coordinates services to seniors with the Outreach Librarian. Pulls, processes, and delivers items for homebound, nursing home, and assisted living residents following established routes.

Processes Homebound Service applications and maintains homebound and institution records and files, working efficiently and following guidelines and procedures.

Drives a county vehicle to make homebound deliveries and assists on the mobile library to provide services to assisted living centers, nursing homes. senior facilities, and other mobile library stops as assigned.

Submits applications to Accessible Books and Library Services at the State Library of North Carolina on behalf of the patron.

Plans, implements and assists with library programs and outreach events for adults and seniors inside and outside of the library.

Mends and repairs library materials.

Curates book displays.

Answers telephone, providing information and directing caller to appropriate personnel; renews items over the phone; handles disputes according to library policy, requesting assistance from supervisor as needed.

Completes a minimum of 40 hours of professional development each fiscal year.

Fills in at other locations and desks when needed.

Performs related tasks as needed.

Considerable knowledge of books, materials, equipment, and resources in area of assignment.

Working knowledge of the operation principles and practices of a public library and practices of library science.

Working knowledge of the use of computer systems including on-line systems, computer software, printers, and other peripheral hardware, and of software programs utilized in assigned programs.

Creativity and ability to work independently.

Ability to use all assigned equipment with appropriate skill.

(for some positions) Ability to plan and coordinate successful programs and services relating to assigned collection of materials.

Ability to assess and assist patrons of all ages and demographic groups.

Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, volunteers, officials, and the general public.

Ability to utilize a variety of systems and methods to acquire materials or provide services requested by patrons.

Associate’s degree and a minimum of (1) one year of experience working with the public in a Library setting

Possession of a valid North Carolina Driver’s License required.

Evening and weekend work required.

This position is a safety sensitive position, and the employee is designated as an authorized Motor Vehicle Operator for Iredell County and requires adherence to the Iredell County Vehicle Operations Policy and is subject to random drug testing.

College Degree preferred

Previous experience working with seniors preferred

Bilingual preferred