Library Associate II - Children's Services

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Branch Manager, the Library Associate II provides high quality information, reader, and technology services to children (ages birth-11), families, and caregivers at the the Cecil County Public Library while consistently delivering caring, non-judgmental customer service. This position plans and delivers a full range of diverse and innovative programs, services, and outreach initiatives to meet the needs of children (birth-11), families, and caregivers.  

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Provides information services, including readers advisory, homework help, reference, and technology assistance to children, families and caregivers in person, via phone, email, online, etc.
• Works collaboratively with system-wide Children’s Services team and external presenters to plan and implement library programs that are responsive to the needs of children, families, and caregivers in the community. 
• Works with Branch Manager to develop and implement outreach and collaborative programming to local school system and community based organizations
• Actively markets library services and programs to children and their parents/caregiver. Merchandises collections. Recommends and reviews books and other library materials through various media outlets, including the CCPL website.
• Works with Branch Manager to develop and implement department or branch goals within overall system goals.
• Serves as liaison to the local elementary schools and community organizations serving children and their parents/caregivers.
• Monitors and maintains the local juvenile collection and makes recommendations for materials to be purchased.
• Utilizes the library’s circulation database to search for and place holds on materials requested by patrons.  
• Represents branch library on system-wide children’s services team.
• May serve on system-wide committees.
• Monitors and maintains library computers and software, troubleshoots and calls for assistance as needed.
• Maintains facility and reports problems to appropriate staff.
• Maintains accurate service statistics.
• Shelves library materials of all types.
• Performs ongoing assignments of moderate to high difficulty.
• May serve as Librarian in Charge (LIC).
• Other duties as assigned.

JOB STANDARDS:

• Promotes and maintains a high standard of customer service, both internal and external.
• Demonstrates ability to work with a diverse community.
• Models positive attitude toward library technology and change.
• Maintains courteous, friendly, and constructive relationships with patrons and staff.
• Promotes and advocates a positive library image in the community.
• Maintains professional growth and awareness through training, self-directed learning and other means to stay abreast of current and emerging trends in the community and in libraries.
• Performs job in keeping with the adopted policies, procedures, and values of the Cecil County Public Library.

SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

• Baccalaureate Degree from an accredited college.
• Within two years of appointment, each Library Associate shall have successfully completed Library Associates’ in-service training or nine credit hours of formal academic course work in library science. Such training may have been received prior to the date of appointment. Training provided by CCPL off-site in Maryland.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
• Previous experience working with children ages birth-11.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
• Ability to maintain composure and flexibility in a changing, public facing environment.
• Knowledge of Windows operating system, internet resources, social media, and other technologies and how to use them effectively.
• Knowledge of a variety of types of electronic devices for computing, listening, viewing, gaming and new technologies.
• Willingness and ability to acquire knowledge of library computer systems and applications.
• Ability to analyze and perform and or manage a wide variety of library projects.
• Demonstrated knowledge of users’ interests, books, readers advisory and new materials formats
• Excellent computer skills, including various software packages, knowledge of internet resources and how to use them effectively 
• Ability to reach, bend and lift up to 35 lbs.
• Ability to push/pull a rolling book carts.
• Excellent PC skills and experience with software packages.
• Valid Driver’s license.

EQUIPMENT:

Personal computer, laptop, tablets, printers, scanners, photocopier, AV equipment, laminator, book trucks, security system, cash register.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Works in normal heat and light conditions with some exposure to seasonal draft conditions. Some eye fatigue from working at computer terminals; physical fatigue from working at counter height (39") work surface and from repetitive lifting of books, moving wand and pushing carts. Some stress from constant public contact.

FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT STATUS: Exempt

SCHEDULE: Full-Time, 37.5 hours per week.  Regular schedule requires evening, daytime and weekends.

NOTE: Certain conditions, e.g. economic constraints or staffing patterns, may necessitate change in job description.

EOE                                                                                                                Revised: 03/2022