Professional / MLS Librarian - Reference Job at East Chicago Public Library in E

Category/Classification: Professional Employee (Non-Exempt)

Reports to: Associate Director of Reference and Adult Services

General Summary

• Under guidelines set by policy, uses own discretion and limited only by organizational requirements and acceptable practices, answers references questions, gives bibliographic information and makes general reader's advisory service available to library users.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Provides reference and instructional services in individual and group settings using print and electronic information sources.
• Plans, publicizes and implements adult programs and displays that provides opportunity for information, entertainment and lifelong learning.
• Creates library publications, including bibliographies, guides and Web-based resources.
• Participates in collection development of the reference and circulating collection, through selection and weeding in assigned subject area.
• Instructs patrons in the use of the OPAC, the library databases and other search sources.
• Contributes to the evaluation and development of reference services and collections.
• Maintains current awareness and use of emerging information and library technologies.
• Promotes library collections, technology and services through presentations, programs, and displays.
• Provides readers advisory.
• Retrieves periodicals and other library materials from closed stack areas.
• Maintains discipline and order in the library
• Maintains basic circulation skills.
• Prepares reports as assigned.
• Assists in other departments as required.
• Attends appropriate meetings.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
• Travel may be required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in this environment is quiet to loud depending on activity(ies).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Working knowledge of reference tools, both print and electronic.

Must be able to attend required training sessions.

Ability to work a schedule which includes evening and weekend assignments.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, ability to speak before groups, good telephone voice and technique.

Excellent public service attitude – empathy for people and their needs, pleasant, friendly, helpful, patient, tactful, etc.

Aptitude for working with computers and other equipment.

Ability to work with detail

Ability to maintain composure under stress

Ability to communicate the library’s services and policies to patrons

Ability to follow instructions and work with a minimum of supervision

Ability to work harmoniously with coworkers and patrons.

Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.

Education, Certification, Experience, and Training

ALA accredited Master’s Degree in Library Science required. Must qualify for Librarian Certificate 3 (LC3) or higher - Must maintain current certification by completing a minimum of 50 Library Educational Units every 5 years, consistent with Indiana State Library regulations.

The requirements given above are not intended as exclusive standards for this position. Additionally, the duties and responsibilities listed are meant to be illustrative of the nature of the position and do not include all tasks, which may be necessary to this job function. Further, individuals may be required to work in other areas and at different functions than those described in accord with the changing needs of the library.