MASSACHUSETTS LIBRARY SYSTEM

JOB DESCRIPTION COLLECTION

 

   

SHREWSBURY PUBLIC LIBRARY

 LIBRARY ASSOCIATE/CHILDREN’S LIBRARIAN

 

Definition
Responsible administrative and direct service work to provide library services for children; all other related work, as required.
 

Supervision
Work is performed under the general direction of the Head of Children’s Services.

Performs responsible library duties requiring independent judgment and initiative; assignments are completed according to established procedures and departmental policies and standards; unusual or difficult situations are referred to the supervisor.
 

Supervisory Responsibilities
Supervises approximately five part-time library pages, as well as seasonal volunteers.
 

Work Environment
Work is performed primarily in the Children’s Room, where the noise level is loud; 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.

Duties require constant interaction with library patrons to provide information and assistance, in person and by telephone, and regular contact with town and regional departments and organizations.

The employee has access to confidential patron records.

Errors are easily detected and corrected, but could result in delay of services or expenditure of time by other employees.
 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Assists patrons in the use of library facilities and resources; answers inquiries on procedures in person and by telephone; provides basic direction, information and instruction; provides assistance in the use of computers and Internet networks.

Evaluates and recommends purchase of library materials; responsible for maintenance of collection through inventory, shelf reading, weeding and discarding and performing minor repairs.

Plans, organizes and implements programs for children, including material selection and activities; responsible for organization and display of children’s materials; maintains room displays.

Maintains and updates C/W MARS library computer system and public access catalog.

Ensures proper decorum and behavior and adherence to library policies.

Performs circulation and reference desk duties, as necessary; may be responsible for building security, when necessary.

Attends informational and instructional meetings and workshops related to library operations and children’s services.

Performs similar or related work, as required, or as situation dictates.
 

Recommended Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience
Bachelor’s Degree, MLS preferred; two years of professional library experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill
Knowledge of library policies and procedures, including automated circulation systems and information technology.

Ability to interact tactfully and appropriately with library patrons, especially children. Ability to work independently. Ability to develop and implement programs. Ability to learn computer operations and related library databases. Ability to operate library equipment.

Customer service skills; oral and written communication skills; organizational skills; supervisory skills.
 

Physical Requirements
Minimal physical effort is required to perform duties. The employee is frequently required to speak, hear, and use hands to operate equipment. Vision requirements include the ability to read routine documents and use a computer.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.