Purpose Statement

The job of Library Media Specialist is done for the purpose/s of providing support to the instructional program with specific responsibilities for performing clerical functions related to collection, processing, circulation, maintenance, and inventory of library materials and/or textbooks, documenting losses and monitoring procedures; implementing age appropriate programs for students utilizing library resources; selecting appropriate items in support of classroom instruction; and instructing students on the proper use of the library resources.

This job reports to Building Principal

Essential Functions

• Assists and supports teachers, students, and administrators (e.g. research materials, etc.) for the purpose of identifying resource materials for use in classroom and/or class assignments.
• Conducts learning activities in a variety of formats (e.g. research, inquiry, information search, etc.) for the purpose of addressing multiple literacies including technology.
• Coordinates requests of individuals and/or sites (e.g. media support, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring availability of audio visual equipment for instructional use.
• Evaluates books and/or periodicals for retention within collection (e.g. repairing damaged books, recommending retirement of books and/or periodicals, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring the availability of library collection and other library materials.
• Evaluates media equipment (e.g. computers, etc.) for the purpose of making repairs, providing technical support, diagnosing malfunctions and/or recommending acquisitions.
• Maintains materials inventory (e.g. library books, library hardware/software, media equipment and related instructional materials, etc.) for the purpose of providing an up-to-date reference and ensuring the availability of materials when required.
• Monitors student activities (e.g. students on computers, student discipline in the library, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining a safe environment conducive to learning.
• Operates a variety of media production equipment and systems (e.g. computer hardware and software, etc.) for the purpose of providing media production services.
• Oversees a variety of processes, including curriculum development (e.g. new student library cards; notices of missing, damaged, or overdue books, media and materials; development and implementation of grade level and content appropriate curriculum, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring student learning, providing and/or maintaining access to library resources, and securing reimbursements for losses.
• Oversees individuals assisting in the library (e.g. student aides, volunteers, etc.) for the purpose of providing orientation, training, and ensuring assignments are completed.
• Participates in a variety of meetings (e.g. unit meetings, in-service training, workshops, etc.) for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information required to perform functions.
• Performs circulation activities (e.g. item check-in and check-out, prepare circulation count, lists of overdue items, etc.) for the purpose of controlling the use, location and availability of items in the collection.
• Performs routine maintenance (e.g. operational checks on media equipment, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring availability of equipment for school site use.
• Prepares manual and electronic documents and reports (e.g. collection statistics, scheduling reports/requests, renewal information, overdue lists, textbook orders, fines, costs, etc.) for the purpose of providing documentation and information to others.
• Processes library books, periodicals, software and related media materials (e.g. logging into master files; bar coding, shelving, producing required report, etc.) for the purpose of providing students and staff with required materials.
• Repairs books and materials (e.g. page tears, bindings, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring the availability of books and library materials in good condition.
• Responds to inquiries from studnets, staff, parents and to emergency situations (e.g. school lock down drills, etc.) for the purpose of providing information and/or direction as required, resolving issues and safety concerns and/ or directing to appropriate personnel for resolution.

Other Functions

• Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Job Requirements: Minimum Qualifications

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

SKILLS are required to perform multiple tasks with a potential need to upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: operating standard office equipment including using pertinent software applications; preparing and maintaining accurate records; and providing necessary library services.

KNOWLEDGE is required to perform basic math, including calculations using fractions, percents, and/or ratios; read a variety of manuals, write documents following prescribed formats, and/or present information to others; and understand complex, multi-step written and oral instructions.  Specific knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: library practices, terminology and procedures; age appropriate literature; computer and Internet operations; and concepts of grammar and punctuation.

ABILITY is required to schedule activities, meetings, and/or events; gather and/or collate data; and consider a number of factors when using equipment. Flexibility is required to work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined but different processes; and operate equipment using standardized methods. Ability is also required to work with a wide diversity of individuals; work with a variety of data; and utilize a variety of job-related equipment. Problem solving is required to identify issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data requires independent interpretation of guidelines; and problem solving with equipment is moderate. Specific ability based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: establishing effective working relationships; adapting to changing work priorities; displaying mechanical aptitude; working with frequent interruptions; preparing and maintaining accurate records; and maintaining confidentiality in all communication.

Responsibility

Responsibilities include: working under limited supervision following standardized practices and/or methods; directing other persons within a small work unit; tracking budget expenditures. Utilization of some resources from other work units may be required to perform the job's functions. There is some opportunity to effect the organization’s services.

Work Environment

The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling,  frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally the job requires 40% sitting, 30% walking, and 30% standing.  The job is performed in a generally hazard free environment and in a clean atmosphere.

Certificates and Licenses

Designated Subject Matter Endorsement

Certificate for School Library Specialist K-12

Continuing Educ. / Training

Maintains Certificates and/or Licenses  

Clearances

Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance

FLSA Status   

Exempt     

Certified Staff Salary Schedule