Library Specialist

JOB
BASIC FUNCTION: Under the direction of the Principal or District Library Coordinator, perform a variety of specialized library duties in the acquisition, circulation, maintenance, and distribution of books and instructional materials at an assigned elementary school; offer weekly sessions for classes with read-alouds and library skills in coordination with classroom teachers; assist students and teachers in the selection, location and use of library materials and equipment.DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: Incumbents in the Library Media Specialist classification work independently and assume responsibility for the library collection, schedule and day-to-day operations of a school library. REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES: ESSENTIAL DUTIES: Perform a variety of specialized library duties in the acquisition, circulation, maintenance, and distribution of library books, periodicals and materials at an assigned school site; process new library books and supplemental instructional materials; and oversee the cataloging of books and supplemental instructional materialsOversee the library’s materials and annual budget to ensure diverse and up-to-date collections that support grade-level curriculum and students’ interestMaintain a strong knowledge of current children’s literature, diverse authors, and culturally responsive literature by reading professional and trade publications; solicit input from teaching staff to ensure the collection meets instructional needs.Assist students and teachers in the selection, location and use of library materials and equipment; respond to inquiries and provide information to students and teachers; Plan and conduct weekly sessions for classes, selecting and reading stories, leading discussions, and sharing booksParticipate in planning library curriculum to support and extend District and classroom curriculum; collaborate with teachers to coordinate planning activities and create a reading culture for the schoolAssist students with selecting age-appropriate reading; guide students in researchCirculate library materials; check library materials in and out to students and staff using an assigned computerized system; shelve returned books and materials; clean, mend, cover, and repair damaged booksProcess and receive library materials and equipment orders; prepare new and donated materials for introduction into the library materials collection following district protocols; re-organize shelves to adapt to shifts in the collection and curricular needs; maintain the library catalog; conduct periodic inventory and weedingPromote the use of the library to faculty and students, create an inviting environment so the community feels welcome, and monitor and maintain acceptable student behavior in the libraryMaintain a variety of records related to purchase orders, overdue books and assigned activities; establish and maintain filing systemsOpen and close the library according to established procedures; maintain a clean and safe environment in the libraryPrepare displays and bulletin boards that change regularly Organize and oversee library volunteersOperate a variety of office and library equipment including a calculator, copier, printer, computer and assigned software; operate audio-visual equipment including a projector, projection screen, speakers and others as assigned; troubleshoot and arrange for repairs of equipment as needed; stay up to date on the electronic resources and databases that are available to students and teachers.Perform general clerical duties in support of library activities, including filing, typing or duplicating materialsCreate and organize online resources and specialized book lists to share with the school communityCommunicate with personnel, caregivers, and outside agencies to exchange information and resolve issues or concernsGather library resources and prepare book lists in response to teacher requests; generate surveys, newsletters, e-mail, and other materials regarding library resources and eventsAttend meetings, workshops, and conferences as assignedAssist students and teachers in the selection, location and use of library materials and equipment; respond to inquiries and provide information to students and teachersCoordinate and facilitate various programs, clubs and other community events to promote literacy, and a community library cultureCommunication with caregivers regarding library activities; confer with school site staff regarding class and outside events; work with staff and administrators to build support for program and instructional activitiesOTHER DUTIES: Perform related duties as assigned

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
KNOWLEDGE OF: Functions, operations and maintenance of elementary school librariesLibrary practices, procedures, reference materials and terminologyOperation of a computer and use of a databaseLibrary cataloging and classificationFiling, indexing and inventory proceduresRecord-keeping techniquesCorrect English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabularyOral and written communication skillsInterpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy Modern office practices, procedures and equipmentBasic knowledge of children’s literatureCultural competency and sensitivity in interacting with students from diverse backgroundABILITY TO: Perform a variety of technical library duties in the acquisition, circulation, maintenance and distribution of books and instructional materials Assist students and teachers in the selection, location and use of library materials and equipmentCollaborate with teachers and district library staff Monitor and maintain acceptable student behavior in the libraryRead age and subject-appropriate stories to classesProcess and shelve library materialsInventory, order and receive library materials and equipmentOperate a computer, projection system and assigned softwareMaintain files and recordsCommunicate effectively both orally and in writingEstablish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with othersInterpret, apply and explain rules, regulations, policies and proceduresPrioritize tasks and complete work in a timely manner despite disruptions and distractionsUnderstand and follow oral and written instructionsWork with students at all elementary ages and levels

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
ENVIRONMENT: Library environmentConstant interruptionsPHYSICAL DEMANDS: Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboardSeeing to read a variety of materials and monitor student behaviorHearing and speaking to exchange informationSitting or standing for extended periods of timeLifting, carrying, pushing or pulling objects typically weighing 50 – 75 poundsBending at the waist, kneeling or crouching to shelve and retrieve booksReaching overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally to shelve and retrieve booksEXAMINATION INFORMATION: The first step in the examination process is the application screening and whether or not the candidate meets the minimum qualifications listed.The testing process may consist of a written exam; an oral exam; a performance exam; a structured interview (SI); a qualification appraisal interview (QAI); an evaluation of training & experience/education (T&E) and/or any combination thereof.ONLY the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) test requires and is mandated to have a passing score of 70 on each of the three parts of the test.All other tests will have a passing score set between 50 and 99 depending of a variety of factors affecting that specific recruitment. All candidates must pass the first examination process to be invited to the next step/test in the process.As the testing process consists of a minimum of two examination processes; the weight of each those processes may be determined at any step in the processes.Qualified candidates will be notified of the date, time, and place of the examination(s)/test(s).Candidates will be notified of the minimum pass points/test score for each examination and/or test in the examination process. OTHER: Proof of identification for completion of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, must be submitted at the time of processing for employment.SALARIES: All salaries as stated are based on present information and are subject to change. Appointments are made at the minimum salary shown in the posting and increases are granted at intervals based on anniversary date.Notification of Non-Discrimination PolicyThe Berkeley Unified School District is committed to fostering a positive working environment for its employees. Accordingly, BUSD practices shall be free from discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying of any employee based on an employee's actual race, color, ancestry, national origin, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or gender expression; the perception of one or more of such characteristics; or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.The Board also prohibits retaliation against any district employee or job applicant who complains, testi?es or in any way participates in the district's complaint procedures instituted pursuant to this policy.The following employee has been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination regarding Board Policy 4030:Compliance Officer and Title IX Coordinator2020 Bonar Street, Room 116Berkeley, CA 94702Phone: 510-486-9338Email: nondiscrimination@berkeley.net