Reference Clerk, Youth Services (24 hours)

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Job description

SUMMARY:
Under general supervision, assists patrons in locating items using the catalog and databases; promotes and educates patrons in regard to library resources, events, classes and services.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
This class specification lists the major duties and requirements of the job and is not all-inclusive. Incumbent(s) may be expected to perform job-related duties other than those contained in this document and may be required to have specific job-related knowledge and skills.

• Introduces, assists, and trains customers in general use of library computer resources; monitors computer stations and offer assistance to library customers.
• Provides information as to the basic operation of public access computers, software programs, online catalog, remote access to Library's services, online databases, Internet, email and downloadable media.
• Facilitates youth events to meet community needs including planning, hosting, creating promotional materials, and recording statistics.
• Responds to inquiries from customers relating to computer operation; performs basic troubleshooting routines on public computers, laptops and other devices including resolution of printing problems, loose connections, and rebooting systems as required; reports the need for more extensive maintenance or repair.
• Assists patrons with discovery of library materials, library equipment and library resources; recommends appropriate materials in accordance with expressed interests and age range; provides information in regard to location of materials.
• Responds to basic information inquiries from customers by utilizing appropriate electronic or print sources; seeks assistance for more complex search strategies or for selection of additional resources, as required.
• Assists with the maintenance of book displays; creates signage; coordinates with other staff on monthly topics; pulls materials for displays.
• Promotes library resources, classes and events; assists patrons with sign-up for events and classes;
• Ensures that library facility is clean, orderly and is safe and that patrons follow library guidelines, with particular attention to unattended children; removes materials from tables and chairs and replaces on carts or shelves as appropriate.
• Monitors customers in the Library and reminds them of Library policies as required to ensure that the resources of the Library are fully accessible to all patrons.
• Updates computer records as needed.
• Interacts via phone, email, or in person with internal and external customers, district-wide staff and management, and outside agencies.
• Receives and processes new periodicals; replaces outdated materials as required.
• Operates general office equipment, to include but not limited to: copy machine, computers, scanners, vending systems, telephone, and facsimile machine; instructs customers as necessary.
• Assists Manager in gathering data and statistics for monthly reports and other projects.
• Reports service issues and maintain vendor logs; orders supplies and maintains stock of supplies as instructed.
• Demonstrates courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with public and staff; act in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.

QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Education and Experience:
High School Diploma/GED; AND two (2) years of customer service experience and computer competency; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.

Required Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:
None.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

Required Knowledge:

• Computer hardware, software and peripheral equipment.
• Automated library systems, on-line tools and resources, and the Internet.
• Basic research techniques.
• Current literature, trends, and developments, pertaining to youth services.
• Public library methods and practices.
• Record keeping principles and methods.
• Library District, Branch, and Department policies and procedures.
• Standard office practices and procedures, including filing and the operation of standard office equipment.
• Correct business English, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
• Techniques for dealing with the public, in person and over the telephone.

Required Skills:

• Use of computer hardware, software and peripherals.
• Instructing patrons on use of library resources and technology.
• Performing basic arithmetic computations.
• Understanding and following oral and written instructions.
• Communicating clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Interpreting, applying and explaining applicable codes and regulations.
• Maintaining accurate records and files.
• Organizing own work, set priorities and meet critical deadlines.
• Using tact, discretion and prudence in dealing with those contacted in the course of the work.
• Contributing effectively to the accomplishment of team or work unit goals, objectives and activities.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:
Under General Supervision - Incumbents at this level are given assignments and objectives that are governed by specifically outlined work methods and a sequence of steps, which are explained in general terms. The responsibility for achieving the work objectives, however, rests with a superior. Immediate supervision is not consistent, but checks are integrated into work processes and/or reviews are frequent enough to ensure compliance with instructions.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Mobility to work in an office setting, use standard office equipment and stamina to sit and stand for extended periods of time; strength to lift and carry up to 30 pounds; vision to read printed materials; and hearing and speech to communicate in person or over the telephone. Incumbent must have the ability to bend, reach, stoop, and push.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed in a library setting.