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Assistant Librarian - Sample 3

Position

Assistant Librarian

Department

Library

Accountable To

Library Director; Library Board

Summary of Work

Under general guidance assesses, selects, processes, and catalogs library materials suitable for children and young adults; responsible for Storytime for pre-schoolers; administers annual Summer Reading Program; prepares programs for grade school classes each school year; maintains children's card catalog (currently paper-based, soon to be electronic); assists library patrons with reference questions; assists library patrons with routine computer and Internet use questions; staffs circulation desk, performing routine library clerical tasks associated therewith; other duties as assigned.

Job Characteristics

Nature of Work

This position functions as assistant librarian and children's librarian as well as performing technical library tasks. Position organizes and maintains library materials according to established procedures, assists patrons, performs other duties related to library operations.

Personal Contacts

Daily contact with public, school children, other library staff, other town employees, library board members.

Supervision Received

Minimal supervision; guidance as needed.

Supervision Exercised

May supervise seasonal clerk, volunteers.

Essential Functions: Position requires knowledge of children's and young adult library materials; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; ability to work with the general public; ability to type, work with library databases, computer software, and wordprocessing; ability to navigate the Internet; ability to retrieve and return books to shelves; ability to maintain files and records in an orderly manner.

Areas of Job Accountability and Performance:

Maintains and improves children's library; communicates with school teachers and students; performs Storytime; composes and prepares routine correspondence; assists with annual budget preparation; maintains library annual statistics; assists library patrons; issues overdue notices; orders and processes interlibrary loan materials, maintaining such records as necessary; supervises volunteers and library clerk as needed.

Job Requirements

Knowledge

Position requires basic knowledge of library methods, practices, and procedures, and children's books and literature.

Skills

Position requires skills in computer use, basic typing, word processing; filing, basic bookkeeping; and operation of library and office equipment.

Abilities

Position requires the ability to: work with children and children's library materials; shelve books; maintain a filing and catalog system according to standard library procedures; to deal tactfully with patrons; to be dependable, efficient and honest; to communicate effectively orally and in writing; to follow verbal and written instructions; and to establish effective working relationships with fellow employees, supervisors, and the public.

Education and Experience

The above knowledge, skills, and abilities are typically acquired through a combination of experience and education equivalent to a college degree. Experience working with the public is required. Experience in elementary education, or a school or public library is highly recommended.

Job Performance Standards

Evaluation of the position will be based primarily on performance of the preceding requirements and duties. Examples of job performance criteria include but are not limited to the following:

  • Performs assigned duties;
  • Demonstrates a knowledge and understanding of children's library operations and procedures;
  • Handles library materials with care and diligence;
  • Adheres to state law influencing the duties and responsibilities of the position;
  • Provides useful and cooperative assistance to patrons;
  • Works well independently-,
  • Maintains accurate and timely records;
  • Prepares and submits accurate and timely reports;
  • Displays consideration and cooperation when dealing with the public;
  • Observes work hours;
  • Demonstrates punctuality;
  • Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with fellow employees; supervisors, and the public.