Adult Services Librarian, Ventress Memorial Library, Marshfield, MA

Posted March 27, 2018

Adult Services Librarian, Ventress Memorial Library

The Ventress Memorial Library is looking for someone who is enthusiastic about technology and has an interest in its practical application in a library setting. This person needs to be outgoing, innovative, and take a proactive role in providing patrons with library services and provide assistance to patrons with use of computers and the Internet.

General Statement of Duties:

Employee works under the general direction of the Adult & Young Adult Services Coordinator. Employee plans and arranges own work in accordance with standard procedures and previous training referring unusual or difficult situations to the supervisor.

Must maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and demonstrate a commitment to engage independently in continuing professional development.  Must perform all aspects of job responsibilities with honesty and integrity.

Specific Responsibilities and Duties:

• Assist the Adult & Young Adult Services Coordinator with regularly scheduled coverage of the Reference Desk. Performs a wide variety of reference services; computer troubleshooting; assists with training for staff and public on the use of computers, tablets, eReaders, the Internet, electronic databases, and other technology resources. Provides readers’ advisory and research assistance to library users in direct consultation, by phone, email or other emerging technologies.
• Effectively researches questions of varying complexity for patrons, using library materials, electronic and Internet sources, and community resources. Adjusts responses appropriately based on age and educational background of library users; confers with other professionals on questions that are complex or specialized in nature. Maintains a welcoming environment at the library’s Reference Desk. Models good customer service practices at all times. Provides referrals to other libraries, sources, agencies, etc. when necessary.
• Assists patrons in learning about library resources and services for independent use and research by providing informal instruction in the use of such resources (e.g. OCLN catalog, Virtual Catalog, Internet, electronic databases), and developing and distributing informative handouts on library materials, services, reading lists, web resources, etc. In consultation with the Adult & Young Adult Services Coordinator, may be asked to develop and conduct training sessions for the public on how to use computers, the Internet, and electronic databases, both within the library building and out in the community.
• Responsible for basic troubleshooting of public computers and other electronic equipment used by the public while assigned to the Reference Desk and when other staff is not available. Troubleshoot computer software (e.g. print management, reservations software) and computer connections (e.g. cable, wireless) as needed to ensure satisfactory public access. Investigates and reports on new technologies and software for use by patrons and staff, including potential impact on changing patron behaviors.

 

Qualifications

Required Knowledge, Ability and Skills: Requires demonstrated proficiency with computers including networked computers, Windows, word processing, spreadsheets, and email; automated catalogs, electronic databases, the Internet, and Web 2.0 technologies; and previous experience with an automated library circulation system. Requires knowledge of reference and information sources in all formats including search and evaluation techniques. Must possess effective communication and training techniques, demonstrate flexibility in a dynamic environment, and be at ease with interruptions.

Ability to deal in an effective and courteous manner with members of the general public on a daily basis, and enjoy working with and possess the skills to interact with both children and adults in a professional manner. Ability to establish and maintain effective cooperative and positive working relationships with library staff and work cooperatively with other divisions, departments and elected or appointed officials. Ability to plan, analyze, carry out projects, consult and offer advice; requires effective communication skills. Ability to work accurately with close attention to detail in reading, writing, spelling and performing basic math functions.

Job Environment: Work is performed under typical library and office conditions; the workload is subject to seasonal fluctuations which require advance planning; regular library schedule requires evening and weekend work. The employee operates standard library equipment, computers, projectors, photocopier, and microfilm readers. The employee has regular contact with library patrons and staff, vendors, other town employees and outside organizations; contact is typically in person or by telephone.

Physical Requirements:

Minimal physical effort required under typical office conditions include regular sitting, talking, walking and mental concentration for extended periods; intermittent moderate effort required for tasks such as moving files, books or other library printed materials. Position requires the ability to operate a keyboard and view computer screens and the ability to adjust focus; hearing ability requirements include ability to interact with the public, elected or appointed officials and outside organizations. Must be able to stoop, kneel, bend, reach forward and above the head; to receive books from patrons; lift books and other materials; bend and extend reach for such tasks as shelving books or emptying book drop.

Education: MLS

Salary: $24.29 – $27.32 Depending on Qualifications

Closing Date: Open until filled