Library Services Specialist

Starting placement will generally not exceed 15% of the advertised initial salary range and is based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
This is professional work assisting the public in receiving prompt, courteous and accurate service when requesting information, using the collections and services of the library, including use of public access computers, online resources, circulation services, and public programs.   Work involves contributing to collection maintenance activities, and assisting with staff coverage at different branch locations.
 
NOTE:  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.  The Job Description Questionnaire (JDQ) reflects a more detailed description of the position. Neither the job description nor the JDQ constitutes an employment agreement.  Both are subject to change as the needs of the County and requirements of the job change.
 
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Provide collection access guidance and information service. Provide patron assistance in using the online catalog, placing hold requests, and other online library account features. Assist patrons in locating library materials and offer alternative services when item is not found (hold request, purchase request, and Interlibrary Loan). Assist patrons with answers to informational questions in person, by telephone and electronically.   Assist with staff coverage at other branch locations at least three times per year. Perform collection development and maintenance activities such as collection promoting displays; deselecting outdated, non-circulating and damaged materials from the collection and processing them to be removed from the library’s database.

Provides assistance with public access computers and other technology. Assist and provide instructions to patrons in the use of person computers, software, applications, printers and Internet computers, including searching, e-mail, downloads, et cetera.  Ensure computers are functioning properly and printers trays are filled with paper. Clean keyboards and computer screens. Assist patrons with downloadable materials on various devices. Provide technology instruction and/or referrals to guide patrons in the use of electronic resources available at location and through remote access. Monitor patron use of all computer systems. Troubleshoot and resolve hardware and software problems as they occur and/or instruct patrons so that they can resolve their own problems.  Communicate issues with TSC as needed. Schedule use of presentation equipment, laptops and peripheral equipment; instruct patrons and staff in proper use of equipment and maintain equipment. Maintain current awareness of and familiarity with new software programs, electronic resources, computer equipment and downloadable media through training, webinars, workshops, tutorials, et cetera.

Provides circulation services. Greet and offer expertise to library users as they enter the service area or by phone and as they use library resources. Assist patrons with locating their own holds at pickup areas and instructing them with checkout process at the self-check machines. Assist patrons with curbside services promptly and courteously by retrieving their requests, item check out, and delivery in the designated waiting area. Manage complex circulation transactions in accordance with library policy and circulation procedures with a high degree of accuracy, courtesy and professionalism. Investigate “Notes” and “Alerts” information in patron record to take appropriate action while handling patron transaction. Resolve patron complaints with tact and care; negotiate when extenuating circumstances are warranted. Conduct “claims returned” process for patrons who state they returned a library item which is still on their record, with tact and careful negotiation. Assist with and complete financial transactions and deposits accurately and efficiently, and prepare daily bank deposits. Manage on-shelf holds list by retrieving the correct daily list and searching for requested items on the shelf.

Provide program assistance.  Assist in planning and conducting programs and classes in specialized subject areas as assigned, in person or virtually, based on community needs. Prepares needed materials for program and promotion.  Assist patrons with registering for programs. Participates in representing the library system in outreach programs and events in the community. Track, maintain and report on any range of information or statistics as required. Greet and assist patrons utilizing the inmate family visitation program.

Perform supervision of volunteers. Communicate volunteer request, recruit, interview and submit selected candidate to Library Volunteer Liaison. Provide volunteers with general volunteer training as well as specific training on their area of responsibility, when appropriate. Regularly check in with volunteers to make sure they have all pertinent knowledge to perform assigned tasks. Coordinate volunteer schedules and the overall volunteer calendar. Supervise each volunteer and address concerns as needed. Meet with each volunteer annually, or more often as needed, in order to review volunteer performance, assess placement, and receive feedback on the volunteer’s experience. Keep organized notes and records. Coordinate with Library Volunteer Liaison to provide volunteer appreciation events.
Serve as the lead branch representative for the Leon County Summer Youth Program. Responsible for all aspects of the program including training, interviewing, selecting, hiring, supervising, and reporting.
 
OTHER IMPORTANT OR MARGINAL DUTIES
Perform other duties as assigned.
 
DIFFICULTY
Work tasks involve general knowledge of internal practices and procedures.
 
RESPONSIBILITY:
Supervision Received
Employee assigned to this class receives general supervision and work is reviewed upon completion for conformity with library policies and meeting performance objectives.  Work requires independent judgment in determining how to accomplish work tasks.
 
Supervision of Others
None.
 
INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL CUSTOMER CONTACT
Contacts are with people inside and outside the organization for the purpose of providing, exchanging, and receiving information.
 
EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS USED
Personal computer; word processing software, spreadsheet software, and database software; library database software (SIRSI Integrated Library Management System); calculator, and a vehicle are examples of tools and equipment used.        
 
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Work is performed in a library and involves desk work, standing and walking.
 
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of County and library policies. Knowledge of personal computers in a Windows environment. Knowledge of English grammar. Ability to communicate with patrons and staff in a positive manner. Ability to prioritize tasks. Ability to initiate and follow through on assignments. Knowledge of SIRSI library management system. Knowledge of basic reference tools, interviewing skills, and new technology. Ability to count money and make change.
 
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Requires graduation from an accredited four year college or university with a Bachelor's degree and one year of related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.  

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Possession of a valid Class "E" State of Florida Driver's License and have a favorable driving record.
 
*Must be able to work a varied schedule including days, evenings, and weekends. 
 
Selection Guidelines:
Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check, and drug testing.
 
FLSA STATUS:   Non-Exempt.  Employee performs paraprofessional library support work.
 
Revision History:   October 1, 1997; November 5, 1999; October 1, 2005; August 1, 2016; July 13, 2018; April 16, 2021; October 27, 2021.