LIBRARY ASSISTANT COORDINATOR Job at Manatee County Government in Bradenton

Work Location: Lakewood Ranch Library, 16410 Rangeland Parkway, Bradenton, Florida 34211

Work Hours: Variable, 40 hours per week (will include Sundays from 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm)

The Library Assistant Coordinator oversees various public library functions throughout Manatee County. This is professional work involving responsibility for the assigned area of responsibility and may be required to assign and oversee the work of others. This role is usually a customer-facing role and will be facilitating use of the Manatee County Libraries in specific library services while ensuring a safe, welcoming, and well-organized environment for library users.

Working Conditions:
Indoor library environment. Extended periods of sitting and standing regularly required. High noise environment while performing certain responsibilities. Lifting equipment and books up to 25 lbs. alone; up to 50 lbs. with assistance. Able to push book truck and shelve books, which includes bending, stooping, and reaching above the head. May be assigned to any Manatee County Public Library System location. Assigned schedule will include Saturday and evening hours.

Essential Functions: These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

1. Ensuring a safe, welcoming, and well-organized environment.
2. Expected to apply specialized library services knowledge, exercise a higher degree of responsibility and utilize independent judgment to resolve problems and improve work processes.
3. Leads and coordinates specific area of assignment.
4. Provides direct Public Service and other related duties.
5. Monitors and assures smooth workflow of assigned area.
6. Instructs and advises employees and others on issues related to work area assignment.
7. Coordinates work with other units.
8. Participates in system-wide meetings as necessary.
9. Participates in policy development.
10. May perform technical work in assigned area such as circulation procedures and shelving.
11. Provides some reference, readers’ advisory and other information services to library patrons, as needed.
12. Collects fees and fines for late, damaged or lost library materials.

Performs other related work (including weather or other extreme emergency duties) as required.

Area of Assignment: Makerspace Coordinator

1. Develop and oversee the operations and programming of the Makerspace at the Central Library and provide support to other library locations to ensure consistency in policies, practices, and programs.
2. Coordinate activities, manage resources, maintain equipment, and offer instruction and support to patrons across all locations.
3. Foster a creative, inclusive environment that encourages hands-on learning, innovation, and collaboration.
4. Able to operate and train in makerspace equipment, tools, and materials, including 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, electronics, and other creative technology at beginners, intermediate, and advanced levels.
5. Provide support and guidance to other library locations in developing and delivering makerspace programming that aligns with MCPLS standards.
6. Offer one-on-one assistance and group instruction to patrons on the use of makerspace equipment and software, both at the Central Library and other locations as needed.
7. Actively promote the makerspace and its resources to the community through outreach, social media, and library marketing channels while building partnerships with local schools, organizations, and businesses.
8. Monitor and manage the makerspace budget, including purchasing supplies, maintaining inventory, and ensuring cost-effective operations.
9. Maintain accurate records of makerspace usage, program attendance, and equipment maintenance.
10. Seek out grants, sponsorships, and donations to support makerspace programs and equipment.
11. Support other locations with visits and professional development training on Makerspace policies, practices, and programs.
12. Recruit, train, and supervise makerspace volunteers and interns.
13. Stay current with trends and developments in maker culture, technology, and education.
14. Explore new technologies, tools, and materials that can be integrated into the makerspace.
15. Continuously evaluate and improve makerspace services, programs, and operations based on patron feedback and evolving community needs.

Area of Assignment: Youth Programming Coordinator

1. Develop youth programming, coordinating the branch’s Summer Reading Program, and fostering relationships with local schools and organizations serving area youth. Regular circulation desk duties.
2. Design and deliver innovative youth programming for all age groups, both in-house and through outreach efforts.
3. Attend system-wide youth services and young adult programming meetings to share and receive ideas.
4. Assist with planning, publicizing, and implementing the branch’s Summer Reading Program and other youth-centered events.
5. Provide skilled reader’s advisory services for youth, with familiarity across materials from birth to age 18.
6. Build and maintain partnerships with community organizations, schools, and other county departments to enhance programming.
7. Manage staff and volunteers during large-scale events.
8. Collaborate with the branch supervisor on performer agreements and other program-related documents.
9. Oversee the procurement of programming materials, ensuring all resources are in place.
10. Operate County vehicles for offsite programs and outreach.
11. Coordinate with the Programming and Outreach team to support both youth and adult programming efforts, as needed.

Minimum Requirements:

A bachelor’s degree and two (2) years’ experience in Library and Information Science (MLS) or a closely related field (e.g., Education, Library Science, Engineering, Design). Equivalent experience combinations of education and experience may be considered. One (1) or more years of customer service experience. Valid driver license required, with valid Florida driver license required within 30 days of hire. One (1)-year supervisory experience desired.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1. Able to comprehend and follow oral and written instructions. Organizes own work and completes tasks within assigned timeframes. Able to resolve routine situations and problems.
2. Strong oral and written communication skills.
3. Exceptional organizational and multi-tasking skills.
4. General knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job duties.
5. General knowledge and understanding of computer applications and software programs required to perform job duties, including library-related software applications.
6. Good written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills to be able to interact professionally and effectively with co-workers, management, the public, and other stakeholders. Able to communicate information that requires explanation or interpretation.
7. Capable of working under moderate supervision.
8. Creative thinking and a passion for innovation and learning.