Reader Advisor, Perkins School for the Blind, Watertown, MA
Posted August 1, 2015
Come join a team with a mission and make a positive difference in the life of a child! For over 180 years, Perkins School for the Blind has provided quality educational and residential services to students who are blind, visually impaired or deafblind, empowering them to reach their maximum potential. Perkins School for the Blind embraces diversity in ability, thought, culture and belief. We provide equal education and employment opportunities and value the unique talents and contributions of all of our students and staff.
The read advisor acts as the primary point of contact for patrons of the Perkins Library and is responsible for assigning audio and braille books, described videos, large print, and other new and/or emerging accessible formats using the Library’s automated circulation system. The advisor will facilitate all aspects of patron book selection and delivery processes.
Responsibilities include:
- Answers incoming telephone lines and assists patrons with information about their book selection, service status, shipments made, requests/reserves processed, and other available services.
- Utilizes the Keystone Library Automation System (KLAS) to serve patrons on all aspects of their talking and braille book services and creates book orders for patrons by searching request lists, selects books by subject interest or author preferences, customizes patrons service profiles and serves patrons according to their service preferences.
- Answers general informational requests and assists in resolving requests, selection or service problems from patrons.
- Maintains the online patron reading database including updating patron reading interests, service frequency, and type of service data as needed.
- Searches the Library of Congress/National Library Service online catalog to assist patrons in locating titles that are not available locally.
- Processes routine interlibrary loan requests to other libraries and Library of Congress Multistate Centers through an electronic national system for interlibrary loan processing; maintains detailed notes of interlibrary loan transactions in the patron database.
- Provides basic information on eligibility, registration, equipment; refers calls to other staff as appropriate.
- Notifies the Registration Unit of updated patron information, status changes or subscription related information such as address changes, transfers, cessation of services, and subscription problems.
- Provides basic technical support with regard to the library downloadable book services.
- Assists with the training and supervision of unit volunteer staff.
- Performs other duties or special projects as assigned by supervisory staff.
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in library science from an ALA-accredited program
- Two (2) years, public library or reference experience.
Benefits: We provide a complete benefits package, which includes, recess time, tuition reimbursement, medical and dental insurance, LTD and Life insurance, retirement programs and staff development and training.
Perkins seeks to enhance its community of intellectually, culturally, and socially diverse individuals to enrich the educational experience of our students. Applicants from a multicultural background, are bilingual, and/or who have relevant life experience are encouraged to apply.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER
For a more detailed description of the position and to apply, please visit our website http://www.perkins.org/careers/ and submit a resume and cover letter with your application.
Req ID: 2015-415