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Branch Librarian

Nature of Work

The position in this class functions as the paraprofessional librarian in charge of the largest branch libraries in the County library system.

The tasks performed entail responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the respective branch library. Duties include the circulation of library materials, the registration of library patrons, the furnishing of information to library users and oversight of library building maintenance, repairs, and cleaning.

Work is performed under the general supervision of the library director or an assigned library supervisor, and is reviewed on the basis of conferences, reports, and patron satisfaction. Supervision is exercised over a small staff of branch library assistants and various volunteers.

Employees in this classification have extensive contact with the respective city administration, community groups, and Friends of the Library in tailoring library services to the needs of the community patrons served. Close contact is maintained with the headquarters library, particularly with regard to reference questions and the coordination of circulated materials between the headquarters library and the respective branches.

Responsibility is for the operation and direction of either of two branches of the of the County Library System.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is the second level of a two-level series. Positions are distinguished from the lower level Branch Librarian I by the size of the library facility and staff, higher patron and usage, greater circulation of materials, and greater decision making responsibilities.

Representative Examples of Work

(Only major tasks are identified for most positions; refer to position description for detailed listing of duties.)

Supervises and evaluates staff; prioritizes staff assignments; participates in providing patron service in locating library materials and checking library materials in and out.

Develops and selects library materials for the branch; provides patron services in locating library materials and checking library materials in and out.

Responds to patrons' reference questions by advising where materials are located or in requesting material from the main library; prepares patrons' other library requests from main library; transmits patrons' special requests to main library.

Answers telephone requests: demonstrates operation of photocopier, of DYNIX library computer information system, and other library equipment.

Organizes and supervises children's story time; assists in selecting books and other materials; conducts library tours.

Processes applications for library cards; notifies patrons of overdue books; collects fines.

Shelves books, records, magazines, and other items; organizes and files book cards; creates book displays and seasonal decorations.

Trains staff and volunteers in library work.

Prepares daily and monthly statistics on circulation, patrons served, fine money and donations.

Performs minor cleaning such as dusting; advises proper officials when cleaning, maintenance or repair of facilities is required.

Performs related work, as assigned.

Selection Factors

(These factors will be the basis for selecting the most qualified applicants to be interviewed. Applicants selected for employment must satisfactorily demonstrate possession of these factors during and after a prescribed probationary period for continued employment.)

Knowledge of

  • modern library principles, methods, and procedures.
  • basic library reference materials and procedures.
  • local reader interests, books and authors.

Skill in

  • operating a computer keyboard, various library equipment, and the FAX machine.

Ability to

  • work with considerable independence and make sound decisions in the operation of the branch.
  • supervise the work of a small group of paraprofessional employees and volunteers.
  • establish and maintain effective working relationships with library patrons, local government officials, local community groups, local Friends of the Library groups, and employees.
  • lift and carry up to fifty pounds.
  • learn and abide by Flathead County Library policies and procedures.
  • become and remain a certified librarian by the State of Montana.

General Recruitment Indicators

(Person applying for a position in this class should have the following experience and/or training).

Four years experience as a library technical or branch assistant; or successful completion of library science course work may be substituted for up to two years of the experience; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which indicates possession of the knowledge, skills and abilities listed.