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Library Assistant

Position

Library Assistant III – Technical Services

(Information Management and Technical Processing)

Position Overview

A Library Assistant III – Technical Services performs professional library functions requiring specialized knowledge and expertise in all areas of public library services. This position focuses on the technical processing of all library materials and information management of library technology. The Library Assistant III acknowledges and accepts the Library’s Code of Service, respects the Library’s confidentiality laws and the integrity of the Lewistown Public Library.

Principle Priorities

Duties may be assigned or modified by Director.

General

  • Aspires to help patrons to become lifelong library users by introducing them to the wealth of library resources and enables them to use library services effectively.
  • Assists patrons in locating needed resources in all formats and provides assistance for Internet usage and computer programs within the Library.
  • Provides Reader Advisory and basic instruction for all ages, as requested, for print materials, Internet usage and computer programs.
  • Sustains the dignity of patrons by giving them correct, non-judgmental and complete responses to their informational needs. Provides help where needed and respects patron’s right to browse.
  • Interprets and applies typical library search strategies.
  • Informally assesses the community regularly to identify community needs and preferences.
  • Composes bibliographies, book reviews and press releases as requested.
  • Consults with peers on library matters, this may include staff meetings, workshops, Wired Montana listserve, other library listserves, professional gatherings and other resources.
  • Keeps current on new library materials and technologies.
  • Prepares correspondence/documentation on procedural or informational matters as needed or requested.
  • Keeps Director informed as to project progression, needs and outcomes. 
  • Collects data and compiles reports as requested.
  • Maintains and manages technological equipment (photocopier, printers, AV equipment, computers and reader/printer) requiring minimal servicing and accountability within the library, may train other staff on the use of this equipment as requested.
  • Handles monetary payments for fines, donations, ILL, etc.
  • Enforces library rules for the protection of library patrons and property.
  • Helps to maintain a neat, clean, functional and inviting library.  Provides a welcoming and safe atmosphere.
  • Participates in circulation tasks, which may include checkouts, record keeping, opening and closing routines, reserves, sorting mail and other tasks associated with circulating materials.
  • Plans, implements and follows through with procedural and informational duties and assists with library promotion and services as assigned.
  • Assists the public, on the phone or in person, on the use, availability and status of library materials.
  • Interacts with customers and staff in a courteous and professional manner and attempts to defuse and/or resolve potentially volatile or sensitive situations to ensure quality customer service.
  • Recommends books and other materials to be purchased for the collection.
  • Performs supervisory and professional duties requiring adherence to standards of accuracy, timeliness, tact and confidentiality.
  • Participates in continuing education programs related to library services and pursues Montana Library Certification.

Specific Priorities

Information Management Responsibilities 

  • Develops, directs and implements the criteria for the acquisition of all MARC21 record information for the Library’s collection following Montana State Library, AACR2, and Library of Congress rules and regulations.
  • Assists in the assessment, evaluation, configuring and monitoring of library technology and other resources for automated library services including the appropriate technology products used in the Library (e.g., Follett applications, LaserCat, Internet, CatExpress, Passport, esp
  • Supervises, configures and implements the library database programs such as Circulation Plus, Cataloging Plus, OPAC, Follett Applications, Passport, CatExpress, Ultra Card MARC and LaserCat databases, establishing and maintaining their accuracy.
  • Assists and coordinates with school and public librarians on library technology and cataloging aspects. Maintains and expands knowledge of library technology and services.
  • Assists in the development of policies and procedures for delivering technical services and information to users and staff.

 Technical Processing Responsibilities

  • Maintains specialized reports, statistical and data analyses and other information to provide accurate and concise feedback about the Lewistown Public Library for various entities.
  • Assists and trains staff in areas of technical data interpretation and manipulations for the Library’s system.
  • Assists in the determination of placement, genre and classifications of library materials within the collection.
  • Catalogs all Library materials in full MARC21 format with accuracy and adherence to established library standards such as AACR2 and Library of Congress using both copycat and original cataloging methods.
  • Manages all original and copycat bibliographic records that are added to, and/or corrected in the Library’s local automated system.  Massages data as needed to be interpreted and useful in the Library’s automated system using cataloging methods such as: Online Passport or TTY, Batch-load/tape-loading systems, CatExpress Web, and bibliographic utilities like OCLC and WLN/OCLC LaserCat, etc.
  • Oversees the exporting/importing of electronic bibliographic MARC records and holdings data in batch/single file format from online sessions of OCLC WorldCat, CatExpress, and/or Passport, etc. to/from the Library’s automated catalog system and sends updates to WLN/OCLC quarterly with holdings data.
  • Oversees all aspects of the physical processing of library materials including supervising of assistants.
  • Assesses, inventories, discards, and processes collections with collaboration with other staff.

Other Assigned Duties May Include 

  • Serving as a backup person for other library areas as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Supervision

Under general supervision of the Library Director.

Responsibility for Work of Others

May supervise Library Staff when they are assisting with the essential duties of the Technical Services area.  May supervise volunteers or community workers as appropriate.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Bachelor’s Degree is required; course work in library science is preferred. 4 years of progressive responsibility experience in a library environment is required or a lesser experience in an actual cataloging position dealing with electronic information data, assessment, and cataloging skills would be considered. Must have skills in operating personal computers including automated information database, database creation, word processing, spreadsheets, and electronic software. A thorough knowledge of library standards and rules such as USMARC and AACR2 is essential. Must be familiar with library tools for evaluating, acquiring and maintaining library collections. Must know how to use an Online Public Access Catalog and other information technology sources to meet typical library needs.

Must also know interlibrary loan process and philosophy; OCLC protocol knowledge is desirable. Must have a thorough knowledge of the concepts and theories of library science and cataloging, experience with specialized technology related to library information retrieval, management and services delivery.  A working knowledge of typical office procedures is desirable.  Must be able to demonstrate the ability to conduct a reference interview and be able to answer reference questions with authority and thoroughness to meet patron needs.

The position requires a commitment to service excellence; the ability to see the big picture of the Library; the ability to work well with others in a team; the ability to provide leadership and plan, prioritize and focus on what is critical; commitment to lifelong learning; recognition of the value of professional networking; and the ability to remain flexible and positive in a time of continuing change.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

Physical requirements include ability to move around the facility, walk, sit, bend, carry and stoop; Ability to use hand and finger motion with enough manual dexterity to use computers and handle library items; Typing ability and computer skills are essential. A minimum typing speed of 50 WPM with a 95% accuracy rate is essential. Lift up to 25#, or greater with assistance; and perform other efforts as identified with normal library work; must have the ability to communicate with patrons effectively; having the ability to talk with clarity and be able to listen to patrons accurately; Must have specific vision abilities (adjusted) that include close and distance vision with good depth perception; reasonable accommodations may be available.

Duties are performed in surroundings where undesirable physical conditions and hazards are minor and controllable.