JOB DESCRIPTION
Classification Title: Assistant Librarian
Headquarters—Department: Library
Employees In This Classification: 1
Immediate Supervisor: Librarian
Direction of Others: Seasonal/volunteers
NATURE OF WORK: Under administrative direction, this employee is responsible for performing all tasks related to the daily operation of an automated library. Included in this varied workload are tasks related to the circulation of library materials; these include registration of library patrons, reference services, circulation, and interlibrary loan of all materials. Additionally, technical service tasks related to the acquisition, cataloging, and processing; and database management of all library materials are part of this job. The work may also include special projects and tasks related to library automation as well as training and supervision of temporary help and volunteers. In the temporary absence of the Librarian, this employee will work independently executing all operational tasks.
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Must have excellent public relations skills with an ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing. The job requires strong computer skills, with an emphasis on database management, and knowledge of current library trends with experience in emerging technologies. Experience with MARC cataloging standards, OCLC and interlibrary loan is desired. Attention to detail, good organizational skills and a love for books and reading is essential to the job. Must have the ability to work effectively without supervision and as part of a team.
EDUCATION: Requires post-secondary education resulting in a degree related to business practices or management. A high school diploma and a combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the responsibilities of this position may be considered in lieu of the stated education and experience requirements. A minimum of two years of experience in a library is preferred. Candidate must demonstrate knowledge of computer competency including library cataloging and database management.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
A. Material maintenance
B. Database maintenance
C. Public Service
These functions typically require:
Seeing, hearing, speaking, keyboarding, lifting, climbing, handling, standing, walking, stretching, bending, and stooping.
WORK PERFORMED/AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
I. Circulation/Reference
A. Register new patrons and maintain a current patron registration file.
B. Check-out, check-in, and re-shelve library materials as returned.
C. Inform patrons and accept payments of fines and materials, balancing cash daily.
D. Assist in placing holds on the automated system, notifying patrons as items arrive.
E. Assist patrons in Internet registration and usage.
F. Assist patrons in the use of the library including location of materials and use of equipment and resources, including those found online.
G. Provide Reader’s Advisory assistance to patrons.
H. Make photocopies.
II. Interlibrary Loan
A. Place online material requests for local patrons, within or outside of the Arrowhead region using MnLINK and acceptable Interlibrary Loan standards.
B. Accept and fill requests of Aurora materials, sending them out to regional or statewide patrons.
C. Maintain accurate records of all transactions; notifying patrons when materials are to be picked up or when they are overdue.
III. Technical Services
A. Using the automated acquisitions module, assemble, order and maintain records of library materials added to the library collections.
B. Import and maintain MARC records to the local database, using Global or OCLC sources.
C. Create temporary records for materials without matching MARC records.
D. Create and maintain bibliographic and check-in records for serials.
E. Check-in and process serials when received, claiming for those not received.
F. Annually delete outdated serials from the database, discarding as needed.
G. Process new materials, giving appropriate labels, jackets, and ownership.
H. Assist in weeding and deleting/discarding outdated and/or damaged materials.
IV. General/Other
A. Assist the librarian in maintaining an appealing and safe environment for all patrons and staff by awareness, interpretation, and compliance with all library policies.
B. Assist in the training and supervision of temporary library employees and volunteers.
C. Assist with the development and execution of library outreach events such as the Summer Reading Program, newsletters, and other promotions.
V. Performs all like or lesser duties as assigned by the Librarian or Library Board.
RESPONSIBILITY FOR GOOD WILL AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
This job includes considerable contact with customers and staff. This employee must sensitively deal with all people, regardless of their concern, without discrimination and with a respect for their privacy, and is expected to promote positive public relations and good will by providing high quality service in a manner conducive to quality library standards.