MASSACHUSETTS LIBRARY SYSTEM

JOB DESCRIPTION COLLECTION

Bolton Public Library

Senior Library Technician

Position Purpose:

The purpose of this position is to assist the Library Director and the Assistant Library Director in the daily operations of the Bolton Public Library. Performs responsible library and clerical duties in accordance with policies established by the Board of Trustees. The incumbent performs all other related work as required.  The Senior Library Technician is responsible for maintaining and improving upon the efficiency and effectiveness of all areas under his/her direction and control.

Supervision:

Supervision Scope: Performs varied and responsible duties requiring a working knowledge of departmental operations and the exercise of independent judgment and initiative in completing tasks, particularly in situations not clearly defined by precedent or established procedures.

Supervision Received: Works under the general direction of the Library Director and the Assistant Library Director, and in accordance with established departmental policies and standards.

Supervision Given: None.

Job Environment:

Majority of work is performed under typical office and library conditions; the noise level is moderate.  Library operating hours may require evening and weekend work. Regularly attends meetings and seminars.

Operates personal computers, printers, facsimile machine, copier, calculator, telephone, and other standard office/library equipment.

Has frequent contact with the general public. Contacts are primarily in person and by telephone and involve an information exchange dialogue.

Has access to some confidential information such as patron records.

Errors could result in considerable confusion and delay, and monetary loss, cause significant adverse public relations, and may have legal repercussions.

Essential Functions:

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. 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.)

Performs circulation duties, which includes checking materials in and out of the Library for patrons, registering new patrons and entering patron information into the C/W Mars computer system.

Assists in the maintenance of the computerized on-line catalog, utilizing proper library standards and procedures. Responsible for updating the on-line catalog as materials are added to or deleted from the collection.

Performs a variety of clerical duties including data entry and processing materials of all types. Provides information over the telephone concerning library hours, available materials, museum passes, or materials on loan from other sources. May be required to respond to patrons’ questions regarding reference materials or information. May call borrowers about reserve books or overdue materials.  Routes telephone calls to proper authority within the library.

Assists patrons in the use of the library, helping them in the use of the on-line catalog, Internet, computer databases, reference, and in the selection of reading material. Acts as advisor to patrons, suggesting reading materials and other information for patron’s consideration.

Performs a variety of technical support functions including processing new materials and assisting in organizing displays. Restocks or re-shelves returned materials to proper location within the Dewey decimal system.

Uses the C/W MARS online system to initiate interlibrary loans.

Maintains the library and its materials in a neat and orderly condition.  Repairs materials of all types according to established standards and practices.

Required to attend continuing education seminars, workshops, and meetings to keep current with new or changing technology, policies, and library issues.

May be responsible for the opening and secure closing of the library building; ensures building is prepared for public use; turns computers on and establishes PC network connections.

Regular attendance and punctuality at the workplace is required.

Performs similar or related work as required, directed, or as situation dictates.

Recommended Minimum Qualifications:

Education, Training, and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree preferred, supplemented by two years of work experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience, which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
 

Special Requirements:

Massachusetts Certification within five years of hire.
 

Knowledge, Ability and Skill:

Knowledge:  Thorough knowledge of library policy and procedures, and library laws and ethics. Working knowledge of current library technology, its application within the Central Mass. Regional Library System, and other library networks.  Solid understanding of computers and computer systems. Knowledge of standard office procedures, practices, forms, and equipment. Knowledge of the library collection and of publishing patterns and community resources.  Knowledge of the Dewey Decimal Classification System, Library of Congress Subject Headings, and Anglo-American Cataloging Rules.

Ability:  Ability to communicate effectively with all members of the public, including children, in a courteous and tactful manner. Ability to fairly and tactfully enforce library policies. Ability to understand and operate computer systems and associated related software. Ability to perform data entry. 

Skill:  Skill in all of the above listed tools and equipment. Excellent public relations skills to deal with people effectively and appropriately.  Strong oral and written communication skills.  Skill in popular word-processing, database, spreadsheet, and presentation computer applications.

Physical Requirements:

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

Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (up to 25
pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation. Vision and hearing at, or correctable to, normal ranges is necessary. Must be able to communicate verbally. Requires the ability to operate, maneuver and/or control the actions of equipment, machinery, tools, and/or materials used in performing essential functions. 

(This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.)