CALCASIEU PARISH PUBLIC LIBRARYPOSITION DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE: LIBRARY ASSOCIATE I - BRANCH PROGRAMMING DIVISION: BRANCH SERVICES

CLASSIFICATION: NON-EXEMPT APPROVED BY: HUMAN RESOURCES REPORTING RELATIONSHIPSPOSITION REPORTS TO: BRANCH PROGRAMMING DEPARTMENT HEAD OR BRANCH MANAGER

POSITIONS SUPERVISED: NONEPOSITION PURPOSEThis position is responsible for providing programming at the branch level, participating in system wide programming and outreach activities, rendering patron services, and performing circulation duties. 
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES

1. Assumes responsibility for providing programming and community outreach services.

a. Develops and implements innovative library programs and services to meet the needs and interests of the community. Programs provide opportunities for information, entertainment, and lifelong learning. 

b. Determines and facilitates the needed library and outreach services in the local community.

c. Provides library information and markets resources and services at events and requested presentations.

d. Gives tours and provides information relating to the library, its resources, and the use of library materials.
2. Assumes responsibility for providing effective patron services.

a. Provides friendly and efficient patron service that enhances the level of user satisfaction.

b. Facilitates patron requests for information including research and resource assistance.

c. Provides search and retrieval of requested information and presents results that are clear and appropriate.

d. Utilizes library tools and resources to provide effective reader’s advisory and reference interviews.

e. Utilizes creative and innovative approaches to market our library collection, resources, and services. 

f. Supports and assists patrons with technology use, internet access, and electronic resources using a variety of devices. 

g. Applies effective practices to address patron complaints and concerns.
3. Assumes responsibility for maintaining library operations and delivering effective branch services.

  a. Understands and performs regular circulation transactions and duties as needed: 

i. Charges, discharges and renews materials.

ii. Promotes library card accounts and registers new patrons with accuracy.

iii. Collects fines and fees associated with patron accounts.

iv. Accurately and efficiently performs daily branch financial reports and deposits.

  b. Understands and assists in performing collection management duties as needed: 

i. Creates a welcoming environment with attention to collection appearance.

ii. Maintains the physical appearance and orderliness of materials on shelves.

iii. Efficiently and accurately sorts and shelves materials.

iv. Pulls holds and requests for patrons and other library systems.

v. Receives and processes in-transit items. 

vi. Resolves issues with materials.

vii. Assists in processing new branch periodicals.

viii. Receives and processes donated materials.
4. Assumes responsibility for engaging in learning and development activities. 

a. Continuously improves job skills through participation in various learning and training opportunities.

b. Develops and enhances computer and technology skills necessary for effective communication and job function.

c. Stays knowledgeable and informed about our library services, resources, activities, policies and procedures.

d. Reviews professional literature and keeps informed about services, issues, emerging technologies, and research related to libraries. Relates ideas to the library’s mission and values. 

e. Assists in peer support and training as needed.
5. Assumes responsibility for maintaining professional working relations and effective communication with Library staff and patrons.

a. Promotes the Library’s Core Values (Service, Community, Respect, Adaptability, Ethics & Integrity, and Teamwork) by modeling these values in all daily activities. 

b. Works efficiently both individually and with a team to support the library’s mission and core values. 

c. Communicates effectively using a variety of methods. 

d. Develops and maintains effective relations with co-workers.

e. Provides information and assistance as requested. 

f. Responds promptly and courteously to staff and patrons.

g. Informs management of any significant areas of concern. 
6. Assumes responsibility for related duties as required or assigned.

a. Assists with collection development.

b. Demonstrates critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities for branch issues in absence of supervisor.

c. Ensures library areas are clean, secure, and well maintained.

d. Provides system and branch level support by completing special projects and serving on committees.
PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS

1.Appropriate level of work output and efficiency is maintained. Tasks are completed in a timely manner. 

2.Duties and tasks are performed accurately and in accordance with library policies and procedures. 

3.Effective and innovative programs are facilitated. Patrons are informed about library programs.

4.Positive and professional communication and interaction with staff and patrons is maintained.

5.Patron requests are handled appropriately and promptly.

6.Learning and development activities are completed. 

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONBachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE

- Knowledge of library principles, policies, and procedures.

- Knowledge of current research methods, techniques, and sources of information.

- Knowledge of library materials and resources.

- Knowledgeable in methods of storing and retrieving materials.

- Knowledge of classification methods.

- Knowledge of adult, teen, and children’s literature.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREDPrevious experience in a library setting desired.

SKILLS/ABILITIES- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

- Good public service and interpersonal skills.

- Good presentation skills.

- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and general knowledge of Microsoft applications.

- Well organized and detail oriented.

- Research skills and ability to use digital and print resources.

- Able to assist, direct, and coordinate others.

- Must possess the ability to learn and utilize a variety of library technologies.

- General knowledge of technology trends, including mobile devices, social media, and informational tools.

- Ability to navigate the Internet.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS OF THIS POSITIONPositions in this class typically require: walking, standing, sitting, bending, stretching, reaching, stooping, twisting, climbing, kneeling, lifting, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions.

Light Work: Ability to lift 25 pounds and push a cart of 50 pounds. If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work.

Incumbents may be subject to travel.

The physical requirements described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
WORKING ENVIRONMENTNo hazardous or significantly unpleasant conditions (such as in a typical office).

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
INTENT AND FUNCTION OF JOB DESCRIPTIONSJob descriptions assist organizations in ensuring that the hiring process is fairly administered and that qualified employees are selected. They are also essential to an effective appraisal system and related promotion, transfer, layoff, and termination decisions. Well-constructed job descriptions are an integral part of any effective compensation system.

All descriptions have been reviewed to ensure that only essential functions and basic duties have been included. Peripheral tasks, only incidentally related to each position, have been excluded. Requirements, skills, and abilities included have been determined to be the minimal standards required to successfully perform the positions. In no instance, however, should the duties, responsibilities, and requirements delineated be interpreted as all-inclusive. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is possible that requirements may be modified to reasonably accommodate disabled individuals. However, no accommodations will be made which may pose serious health or safety risks to the employee or others or which impose undue hardships on the organization.

Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.