Library Specialist, Spark Space

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

LIBRARY SPECIALIST, SPARK SPACE

WHITE CITY

30-HOUR POSITION

$20.79 TO $26.04 PER HOUR

CLOSES APRIL 30, 2024 - OPEN UNTIL FILLED

THE POSITION

The Library Specialist position performs customer service and a variety of moderately complex technical and paraprofessional duties in support of various sections or functions of the Library system. Excellent customer service to library patrons is the core tenet of the Library Specialist position. The Library Specialist may also be responsible for planning and facilitating programs for all ages, providing readers' advisory, fielding reference questions, and may coordinate and train volunteers.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage the physical Spark Space, a STEM-inspired digital play space, within the branch, including related technology services offered.
• Develop and adapt a reference interview-like approach to help patrons uncover their interests or take next steps in their pursuits, particularly in relation to school and career enrichment
• Provide homework assistance to appropriate grade levels; train and supervise volunteers who provide homework assistance to appropriate grade levels
• Create programs, either independently or with other departments, to introduce or build upon elements of the Spark Space experience.
• Work with appropriate staff to promote online tutoring and homework help resources within the District and with patrons
• Keep an inventory of Spark Space supplies; identify new items to further develop Spark Space.
• Coordinate and share resource training, Spark Space programming plans, Take & Make kits, ideas and materials with staff at other locations, supporting them in the development of other Spark Spaces.
• Know and understand the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement, and Freedom to View Statement, recognizing that freedom of access is a fundamental tenet of a public library.
• Follow all legal and policy requirements related to patron privacy and custodianship of patron records.
• Inform library patrons of rules of conduct as necessary, and enforce those rules when appropriate.
• Assist with library opening and closing procedures.
• Provides customer service by welcoming and registering patrons, issuing library cards, checking in and out materials, and managing patron accounts.
• Assists patrons with locating materials using computers or explaining procedures (checking out, logging onto the Internet, making copies, etc.)
• May assist branch manager with library programming and outreach for all ages.
• Regular attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Customer service techniques to handle a variety of customer interactions.
• Effective oral and written communications.
• Promotional skills to provide patrons with information about services, programs, and special events.
• Effective problem solving skills.
• Interpersonal skills to promote teamwork.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Advanced knowledge of computers, related equipment, Internet and fundamental research, and commonly used office software to perform data entry and to create original documents, save, and open/review/edit existing documents.
• Knowledge of the educational, developmental, and interest levels of different populations served.
• Knowledge of basic library services including ability to use alpha and/or numeric systems for accurate and fast-paced materials placement.
• Basic library circulation policies and procedures (and designated Administrative Rules).
• Library print and electronic resources including commonly used reference sources, library databases, and/or Internet.
• Knowledge of the Library's integrated library system.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team setting.
• Strong interpersonal skills.

QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED.
• One year of library experience.
• OR the equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the duties as described.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Two years of library experience.
• Bilingual.
• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS/LICENSES

• Criminal background check required.
• Ability to travel to sites and branch locations.

COMPENSATION

JCLS has a 16-step salary schedule with steps 1.5% apart from each other. The starting salary will be based on steps 1-5 of the schedule. New hires are placed based on applicable education and experience to the job, as well as keeping within Oregon state pay equity laws. The starting range for this position is $20.79 to $22.08 per hour.