GENERAL FUNCTIONS

The Library Technology Specialist provides technical support for equipment at the Homer Public Library and serves patrons directly at the front desk.

JOB FUNCTIONS AND MAJOR ACTIVITIES

PUBLIC SERVICE FUNCTIONS

1. Serves patrons at the library's front desk, including handling materials, answering reference questions, helping patrons locate information and teaching them about library resources, enforcing library rules, and other service functions that may arise.
2. Collaborates with other library staff to maintain and update the library website.
3. Performs other duties and special projects as assigned.

TECHNOLOGY FUNCTIONS

1. Assists the Library Director and the Information Technology Department of the City of Homer in keeping up all aspects of the library's information systems, including: Maintaining, upgrading, configuring, replacing and troubleshooting equipment at the library
   • Maintaining, upgrading, configuring, replacing and troubleshooting equipment at the library
   • Upgrading or replacing software and online subscriptions
   • Coordinating with vendors
   • Planning for transitions from one technology to another
2. Researches developments in library technology and advises the Library Director and the Homer IT Department on improvements. Participates in testing and refinement of library systems.
3. Assists library staff and patrons with troubleshooting technology issues.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

Graduation from an accredited four-year college with one year of library experience; or education equivalent to two years at college level with three years of library experience.

Proficiency with common operating systems and platforms, including Windows and ChromeOS, as well as common office software and technology. Strong troubleshooting skills, with the ability to identify, resolve or escalate technical issues effectively. Clear and accurate technical-documentation skills, including service ticket summaries, how-to instructions, labeling, and simple diagramming work. General knowledge of information security, with the ability to assess and compare the security implications of different technical approaches.

Must maintain an effective working relationship with the City IT Department in order to ensure data security and regulatory compliance. Experience with library-specific software and databases is highly desirable. Working knowledge of library organization; reference sources and techniques; Dewey Decimal System and reader's advisory.

Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions efficiently and effectively and communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing, train others in library functions and establish and maintain effective working relationships with public, staff, and volunteers. Ability to monitor several tasks simultaneously and work under pressure. Skill to resolve problems and complaints essential.

DECISION MAKING RESPONSIBILITY/AUTHORITY

Work accomplished under generally independent conditions with professional supervision at inception of new tasks or special projects. Ability to use initiative is required. Assists the Library Director and City IT staff in developing and applying technology procedures for the library at a division level. Tact and diplomacy in answering questions and providing assistance in a knowledgeable and nonjudgmental manner is essential. Activities are a moderate potential liability to the City.  Minor budget authority at unit level.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY

None. May be called upon to train library staff in carrying out tasks assigned.

EXTERNAL VISIBILITY/CONTACT

High frequency of contact with the public and IT/ key service personnel. Low frequency of contact with government officials and key City personnel. Infrequent need for presentation or attendance at public meetings.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Office environment. Must be available for evening and weekend work. Nature of public service demand requires ability to respond to changes in schedule or assignment without undue diminution in quality and quantity of work produced. Low exposure to hazardous working conditions in dealing with confrontational members of the public. Physical abilities: required to stand, sit and walk for 3 or more hours per day, bend and stretch without limitation, lift up to 10 pounds at a time, and push a loaded book truck (with wheels) weighing up to 120 pounds.