LIBRARY SPECIALIST

                                                           LIBRARY SPECIALIST

General Statement of Duties

Performs responsible  technical and para-professional librarian work  supporting a program of the Library.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

Employees in this class work in one of several assignments to support Library functions such as public services, technical services, and assistance in branch operation. Work includes assisting in a variety of library services such as patron assistance and reader’s advisory, cataloging and documenting receipt of materials, and maintaining program records and files. Work is performed independently within established guidelines and requires significant technical and paraprofessional library knowledge and skill and creativity in work with patrons through program services.   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.

Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Duties and Tasks

(Note:  not  all tasks are performed by all employees in this classification).

Works at a branch location, assisting the Branch Supervisor in the management of the branch services; registers patrons and issues library cards; sends out overdue notices; sorts and returns borrowed materials to proper location; prepares books for  shelving; organizes and maintains periodicals and vertical files; takes and processes inter-library loan requests; assists in maintaining circulation statistics; keeps library neat and assists in cleaning and mechanical repairs. 

Answers reference questions; performs reader’s advisory.

Fills in for Branch Manager when needed, including working alone.

Works at the  circulation desk in the main branch; checks books in and out;  assists users in finding materials and information; instructs patrons in use of on-line catalogue, copier, and internet; answers a variety of reference questions using Library materials and internet access.

Works in Technical Services activities; processes new and donated items, including audio and audiovisual materials and books:  adds protective jacket or case, applies book plates and pockets, inserts security devices, stamps ownership and distributes processed materials to appropriate departments and sites; assists patrons with gift books.

Assists in cataloging materials for placement in the library collection; downloads records while assuring correct catalog numbers for the Library’s collection; creates and enters bibliographic and item records to computer, attaches barcodes and assigns call numbers.

Assists in determination of whether damaged materials are mended in-house, sent to the bindery for repair, or discarded; removes discarded items from database; mends items as necessary.

Trains patrons  in use of various programs and the internet on Library computers; offers classes and trains and orients patrons one-on-one.

Additional Job Duties

Performs related tasks as needed.

Recruitment and Selection Guidelines

Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities

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.

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.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to perform the basic life operational skills of crouching, reaching, standing, lifting, fingering, grasping, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.

Must be able to perform light to medium  work, exerting up to 20-50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 to 20  pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.

Must possess the visual acuity to prepare and analyze data and figures, operate a computer terminal, and for extensive reading for visual inspection of books and materials at distances close to the eyes, and for use of measurement devices.

Desirable Education and Experience

Graduation from high school and some experience working work with the public in a library setting; some college work in Library or related area preferred; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Requirements

            Possession of a valid North Carolina driver’s license may be required for some positions.

Click below to apply

https://www.cognitoforms.com/columbuscountync1/columbuscountyemploymentapplication 

Columbus County

2011

Special Note: This generic class description gives an overview of the job class, its essential job functions, and recommended job requirements.  However, for each individual position assigned to this class, there is available a complete job questionnaire with a physical abilities checklist which can give further details about that one specific position.  Those documents should be reviewed before initiating a selection process. They can provide additional detailed information on which to base various personnel actions and can assist management in making legal and defensible personnel decisions.