Description

NOTE: There is only one Adult Services reference position available at the Joppa Branch. The Library is seeking either a Library Associate or Librarian for this service area.

Position Summary: 

The Librarian performs professional librarian services including reference services, reader’s advisory, computer support, technical instruction, location of materials, and general customer service. Performs basic supervisory responsibilities for hourly staff. Plans and presents programming. Meets minimum public service hours as defined by Library Administration.

Essential Duties:

1. Performs services within a branch, including but not limited to:

• Assessing, evaluating, and weeding assigned collections;
• Reviewing, selecting, and ordering materials in print and non-print formats;
• Analyzing and interpreting statistical and community information as part of the selection process;
• Managing assigned selection budgets by following established finance procedures;
• Interpreting censorship and freedom of access issues as pertains to selection of materials for library customers;
• Keeping abreast of publishing trends for materials;
• Writing and compiling bibliographies and booklists;
• Preparing and compiling required reports and statistics;
• Mentoring professional and paraprofessional staff, as assigned.

2. Assists the public in the use of library resources, including computer catalogs, indexes, computerized search systems, and the Internet:

• Performs in-depth reference searches and performing readers’ advisory services;
• Plans, assembles, and arranges displays of materials to support popular topics;
• Conducts library tours and orientations;
• Provides information on library activities, facilities, rules, and services to customers;
• Plans and executes programs for children, teens, and adults; coordinates special programs such as summer readings, story times, or holiday programs;
• Moderates a book club.

3. Develops training tools and conducts staff training;

• Plans, directs, or carries out special projects involving library promotion and outreach activities;
• Improves library leadership skills through attending special workshops, classes, discussion groups, etc.
• Performs reference and materials management activities in all service areas (A, J, YA) on a limited basis, as well as circulation activities;
• May supervise hourly staff.

Supervision Functions:

1. Supervises hourly reference staff or volunteers as assigned;

2. Recruits, selects, trains, and schedules staff and volunteers;

3. Administers the Performance Recognition System (PRS), the library’s performance evaluation system, in accordance with published guidelines;

4. Approves annual leave and checks and tabulates timesheets for assigned staff;

5. Prepares monthly reports, meeting agendas, and monthly schedules;

6. Interprets and implements system wide policies and procedures;

7. Schedules and facilitates department/team meetings;

8. Ensures staff receive and understand system and department communications via written or electronic format;

9. May act as supervisor of team or work group.

Standard Functions:

1. Serves on committees and participates in workshops, seminars, and training as requested;

2. Notifies Supervisor with suggested ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of personnel and procedures and system-wide goals and objectives;

3. Learns new skills and technologies to retain proficiency in areas of expertise;

4. Is dependable and punctual;

5. Maintains a positive, friendly, and cooperative attitude and provides consistent customer service;

6. Upholds all library policies and procedures as defined in Harford County Public Library’s Policies and Procedures Manual;

7. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

1. Master of Library Science degree from an accredited ALA institution;

2. State of Maryland Department of Education Professional Librarian Certification within six months of hire;

3. Experience in library setting, preferably public library;

4. Computer experience including reference databases and internet;

5. Ability to work day, evening, and weekend hours.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

1. Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of reference and readers’ advisory services;

2. Ability to anticipate customer needs and respond to a variety of situations involving the public;

3. Ability to develop and implement programs for children’s, young adults and adult services;

4. Broad knowledge of the local community to assess needs and plan well-received programs;

5. Knowledge of electronic resources, including the Internet and database information retrieval;

6. Ability to operate and troubleshoot relevant computer systems, including hardware and software, current audio-visual equipment; and office machines;

7. Organizational and planning skills;

8. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written;

9. Basic math skills;

10. Ability to be flexible, adaptable, and patient with customers and staff.

Work Environment:

1. Work requires occasional physical effort in handling of light materials, up to 30 pounds, in non-strenuous work environment. For example, set up and take down of tables, chairs or other equipment for meetings or events, pushing/pulling of library carts.

2. Environment includes moderate noises (i.e. an office with conversations, photocopiers, and/or computer printers);

3. Work also involves standing or walking up to 60% of the time.

4. Requires sitting and use of computer and keyboard for extended periods of time.

5. Observes safe work place practices with uncluttered workspace, including office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls, proper lifting techniques and following fire regulations.

Reporting Relationship:

This position reports to the Branch Manager. May supervise other staff. May supervise volunteers.

Work Week:

Work schedule includes day, evening and weekend hours.

In addition to the specific duties and responsibilities of this job, it is the responsibility of every employee to comply with the Harford County Public Library’s Values statement, customer service guidelines, and all other policies detailed in the Policies and Procedures Manual.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job. The library administration reserves the right to change, modify, delete, and supplement job duties based on the organization’s needs.

This and all library positions are eligible for system-wide transfer.

Harford County Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualifications