Library Associate I Teen Services

Harford County Public Library offers a competitive compensation and benefits package.  Starting wage, depending on candidate qualifications, is between $18.73 and $24.70 per hour. This position is eligible for the following benefits: deferred compensation 457(b) retirement plan; pension plan; medical, dental, and vision plans; employee assistance program; voluntary benefits; paid time off and more.

Position Summary:   

The Library Associate I – Branch performs a variety of reference services within a branch in order to assist customers in using the library and its services to their fullest advantage. Assists customers with locating materials, information, using electronic resources and emerging technologies. Plans and provides library programming. Meets minimum public service hours as defined by Library Administration.

Essential Duties:

1. Performs a variety of reference services within a branch to encourage customers to check out materials;
2. Assists the public in the use of library resources, including computer catalogs, indexes, computerized search systems, and the Internet;
3. Performs in-depth reference searches and performing readers’ advisory services;
4. Plans, assembles, and arranges displays of materials to support popular topics;
5. Conducts library tours and orientations;
6. Provides information on library activities, facilities, rules, and services to customers;
7. Provides library services to special populations and coordinating special programs such as summer reading, story times, or holiday programs;
8. Prepares and compiles required reports and statistics;
9. Maintains assigned collection(s);
10. Manages and coordinates activities associated with assigned population;
11. May develop training tools and conduct staff training;
12. May plan, direct, or carry out special projects involving library promotion and outreach activities.

Standard Functions:

1. Serves on committees and participates in workshops, seminars, and training as requested;
2. Represents Library at various outreach activities, as needed;
3. Notifies Supervisor with suggested ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of personnel and procedures and system-wide goals and objectives;
4. Learns new skills and technologies to retain proficiency in areas of expertise;
5. Is dependable and punctual;
6. Maintains a positive, friendly, and cooperative attitude and provides consistent customer service;
7. Upholds all library policies and procedures as defined in Harford County Public Library’s Policies and Procedures Manual;
8. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

1. Bachelor’s degree;
2. Ability to attend Library Associate Training Program and to complete the program within 2 years after starting the program for Library associate I
3. One or more years of related experience;
4. Computer experience including internet, use of computer databases and downloading digital materials to a personal device;
5. Ability to work day, evening, and weekends hours.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

1. Working knowledge of library practices and procedures, including accurate use of current reference and search tools and the standard automated library system;
2. Working knowledge of the principles and practices of reference and reader’s advisory services;
3. Ability to operate relevant computer systems, including hardware and software, and office machines;
4. Working knowledge of electronic resources, including the Internet and bibliographic utilities;
5. Ability to train staff, volunteers, and other people as appropriate;
6. Ability to develop and present programs;
7. Ability to be adaptable, flexible and patient with customers and staff;
8. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written;
9. Strong customer service skills;
10. Basic math skills.

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.
6. Ability to travel to branch/outside locations is required.

Reporting Relationship:  

This position reports to the Branch Manager or Assistant Branch Manager.  Does not supervise staff.

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.

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.

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

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

Harford County Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Salary : $19 - $25