LIBRARY ASSOCIATE
#2205
General Characteristics:
The Library Associate assists students, faculty, staff and members of the community through the application of complex paraprofessional skills in the functional areas of technical and/or reference services. Positions in this class are responsible for ensuring that students can easily and effectively access Library materials by means of timely and accurate cataloging of Library materials and electronic resources, reference assistance, general orientations to Library collections and services, and/or support for faculty librarians in the selection and deselection of materials for the Library's collection.
Work requires well-developed communication and research skills, excellent interpersonal skills, broad general knowledge of subject disciplines, and high level knowledge of library classification systems and automated library systems.
Examples of Work:
Oversee and perform duties associated with the cataloging of all Library materials, including print, audio-visual, electronic and Internet resources. Train and coordinate activities of other staff involved in cataloging materials; research, configure and oversee the integrity of the cataloging module of the integrated library system.
Assist students in interpreting assignments, devising research strategies, and locating information in a wide variety of print, non-print and online resources.
Provide groups of students with general orientations to Library resources and services as requested by individual instructors
Assist faculty librarians with collection development activities; recommend purchase and withdrawal of library materials
Participate in Library and College-wide governance activities, hiring committees, policy recommendations
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of: Library of Congress(LC) classification system; principles of cataloging; CLC, AACR2, MARC formats, LC subject headings and classification and rule interpretation; principles and techniques of authority control; cataloging rules, regulations and resources; library classification, subject headings and authority practices; current cataloging practices, emerging technologies and trends in bibliographic control; principles of bibliographic instruction; research techniques; library reference tools, techniques, resources and services; wide variety of print resources and electronic reference databases; the mission of a community college library; the philosophy, principles, policies, and practices of library service; the principles of supervision, coaching and training; role of computers and technology in libraries, including, but not limited to integrated library systems.
Possession of general knowledge in a wide variety of subjects or academic disciplines.
Skill in: the use of print and online information resources; techniques of the reference interview process; correcting and resolving problems related to obsolete, conflicting, or incorrect older cataloging; setting priorities, organizing and managing work time efficiently. Skill and demonstrated ability in keeping accurate records. Interpersonal skills; demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills.
Must demonstrate an active concern for meeting the needs of students, staff and the public.
Ability to: support the mission, vision and core values of the College; perform original cataloging; configure the cataloging module of the library’s ILS; configure OCLC software; upload and download MARC records; demonstrate Internet and database search techniques; remain current in cataloging rules and practices; conduct an effective reference interview to determine the information needs of patrons; analyze and respond to collection needs; apply principles of library science, intellectual freedom, and systems theory to solve practical problems; maintain confidential and sensitive information; identify multiple variables and relationships involved in setting priorities and resolving complex systems problems; collect, interpret and apply statistics to work flow and service improvement; train, evaluate, coach and assign work; complete assigned projects within budget and deadlines; prepare clear and concise statistical and narrative reports; communicate effectively in oral and written form; interpret and follow instructional manuals; use word processing and spreadsheet software; complete work with accuracy and attention to detail; perform work alone and as a member of a team; work with and assist students having a wide range of skills, motivation, and academic or vocational goals; and work safely.
Must demonstrate a commitment to library service, and to the mission of the community college library.
Supervision:
Reports to and works under the general supervision of the Library Director. Work is performed independently according to Library policies. Library Director is available to consult on problems and policy decisions. Work is reviewed for the success in meeting service objectives.
Individuals in this classification may coordinate and lead the work of library staff.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree required. Masters Degree in Library Science preferred.
Two years’ relevant library experience is required. Academic library experience preferred.
Equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered qualifying.
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