Library Associate

Performs a variety of complex and responsible paraprofessional library work requiring specialized knowledge or focus, such as multicultural services, children’s programming, library materials selection and acquisition, cataloging and processing, and public services support; and performs other related duties as assigned. This description is intended to be generic in nature. It is not intended to determine specific duties and responsibilities, which may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position. (Functions listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.) Under general supervision, organizes, implements and monitors the operations of the specific functional area or assignment, including budget allocations, identifying problems and needs, and recommending and implementing changes in procedures within assigned area; Prepares promotional materials, plans and presents programs, and conducts education and training for customers and customer groups; Interprets procedures, policies, and administrative rules and regulations to library staff and library customers; resolves customer problems when necessary; Assists internal and external customers in person, over the telephone, or through electronic communication. Attends professional meetings, pertinent workshops, and serves on system-wide and professional committees; Works with a variety of equipment and automated systems, including the integrated library system, PCs, printers, and electronic databases; performs simple repair and maintenance on computers and other equipment; Prepares, maintains, and provides statistics and reports based on a variety of files, lists, and databases; Monitors equipment and work area problems; coordinates purchases or repairs necessary to resolve problems; Reads publications in assigned functional area; keeps current by attending meetings, workshops, and conferences, as assigned; Fills in for any subordinate positions, as needed; Maintains positive relationships with other staff and members of the public; Requires regular and punctual employee presence; Acts as a representative of Sacramento Public Library to the public; May: Oversee services in branch or central library unit; Provide training to staff assigned to work area; Provide information regarding library services, policies, and procedures and the location and use of library materials and equipment; Answer reference questions and perform adult or youth services work; Assign, prioritize, schedule, and review the work of Library Services Assistants, Library Technicians, shelvers, and volunteers; Assist in recruiting, interviewing, and recommending for hire; trains and evaluates the work of assigned personnel; responds to personnel issues or problems and works with managers to resolve personnel issues; Provide readers’ advisory, basic information service, and assistance to library customers in the use of the library; Process holds, delivery materials, and various circulation reports; Count cash and prepare deposits; check library materials in and out, issue library cards, take fines and payments; Performs other related duties as assigned. Knowledge of: Sacramento Public Library’s policies and procedures; Principles, practices, and procedures of assigned area of responsibility. Previous adult literacy or adult education tutoring or teaching experience; and/or reading or dyslexia specialist; and/or ESL/ELL/TESOL education or experience; special education experience or training, especially with adults; adult counseling/mentoring experience or training. English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation; basic alphabetical and numeric filing methods; and basic mathematical principles. Basic reference materials, methods of bibliographic research, and techniques for interacting effectively with library customers. Current office methods, equipment, practices and procedures including PC usage and familiarity with word processing and spreadsheet software. Ability to: Plan, organize, and supervise the activities of assigned work unit or functional area; Collect, compile, and analyze information and data; Understand the customer’s needs and deliver services by focusing on the customer; Take initiative to ensure a positive and successful customer experience by contributing to finding solutions, regardless of assigned responsibility; Respond to customers and address customer complaints/problems in a timely, accurate, courteous, respectful and friendly manner; Possess attention to detail and follow through on tasks effectively and efficiently; Communicate orally and in writing to customers and internally; Master all procedures related to assigned work area; Learn and use specialized library serials, acquisitions, cataloging, and circulation software; Prioritize and multitask; Communicate effectively and courteously with other staff and members of the public; Keep all relevant parties informed of all major issues and recommend changes where appropriate. Skill in: Keyboarding, word processing, or entering data at a speed and accuracy level necessary for successful job performance. Education and Experience: BA/BS Degree in area of specialty. Physical and Environmental Conditions: Work occurs in a normal office environment with acceptable lighting, temperature, and air conditions. Normally seated, standing, or walking at will. Most positions will require the ability to lift bins and boxes of library materials weighing up to 50 pounds; push or pull book carts weighing up to 200 pounds; stand for long periods of time; stoop, bend, and reach. Positions typically require frequent verbal communication, talking, hearing, sitting, reaching, keyboarding and repetitive motion of hands/wrists, and handling. Specific vision abilities for this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices, libraries, meeting and training rooms, e.g., use of safe work place practices with office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls, and observance of fire and building safety regulations. Position may require some travel throughout the library service area. May require working irregular hours, including evening and weekend shifts and working at various locations during the course of the workday or workweek. Interaction with library staff, library customers, other libraries, agencies and organizations, or vendors will be necessary to provide and receive information, present programs, or resolve situations or problems. There may be some exposure to angry or hostile individuals. #J-18808-Ljbffr