Branch Librarian - Generalist

Performed under the general direction of branch management, exercises professional librarian skills serving as a Branch Librarian. Specific duties will vary based on branch size and area of responsibility.
 

• Provides reference and information services to library patrons. Duties include, but are not limited to: receiving and answering of questions regarding collections, library services and policies; interpreting patron needs.
• Conducts research necessary to obtain sources of information; obtaining copies of information through inter and intra-library loans; assisting patrons in the use of subject specialty materials; and recording reference statistics.
• Assists patrons in their search for library materials; provides material's advisory and reference interview services as needed, by utilizing ILS, print sources, KDL electronic databases and Internet on-line tools with proficiency.
• Participates in blogging and social media in support of library initiatives and operations.
• Maintains collection, including the shifting of books, discarding of materials, requesting of replacement materials, evaluating donated materials, and displaying of new or seasonal materials. Communicates collection needs to Collection Development staff.
• Facilitates, instructs and assists Library staff, volunteers, and patrons in basic technical support, maintenance and troubleshooting in the use of a variety of library equipment such as copy machines, eReaders, basic computer hardware and software, on-line tools, and with one-on-one tech tutoring.
• Assists in planning, organizing and implementing of Library programs and special projects for KDL that meet patron needs, including underserved communities.
• Initiates and maintain community contacts.
• Pursues professional development by serving on KDL committees, and attending meetings, workshops, and conferences to maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills of pertinent Library policies, procedures and equipment.
• Participates in professional organizations; shares information by networking, teaching workshops, and preparing group presentations in the community and at local, state, and national conferences.
• Performs other clerical tasks upon request, including materials order entry, supply ordering, word processing, filing, checking in new periodicals, sorts and distributes U.S. and inter-office mail etc.
• Serves the public by checking in and out library materials, collecting money for lost and damaged materials, issues new/replacement library cards, registers new patrons and processes name and address changes.
• Effectively facilitates access to KDL's digital collection by providing demonstrations of and assistance with multiple format eReader devises and applications.
• Responsible for collection maintenance duties: sorts and shelves library materials; empties book-drop(s); shelf-reading; shifts materials; cleans, dusts, and inspects library materials for damage; discards and repairs library materials.
• Ensures circulation policies and procedures are followed for the proper handling of customer and material records for an accurate library database.  This includes data entry of late, lost, damaged, and claims returned items, and patron information including necessary notes.
• Sorts, packs, unpacks, and inspects library materials received from or being delivered to other libraries.
• Runs reports and lists for item hold information and inter-library loan requests. Provides lists to others for purposes of retrieving items requested, and routes items appropriately.  Contacts patrons or other libraries as necessary.
• Provides information to customers regarding the Library's circulation policies, procedures and refers issues to branch management as appropriate.
• May count, balance and record monies received through the point of sale. Forwards reconciled funds and paperwork to the Finance Department.
• May promote and process services and materials from the Library for the Talking Book and Braille Center (TBBC).
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• This job requires a Master's degree in Library Science or related/relevant field, or a Bachelor's Degree plus 5 years relevant experience, or high school diploma plus 10 years applicable experience, with at least five of the ten in successful relevant service at Kent District Library.
• Ability to travel between work locations and related places of business as needed.
• Working knowledge and understanding of the principles, methods and practices of public library operations, including searching methods, materials advisory and reference interviews.  Incumbent is also required to acquire knowledge of the policies and procedures of Kent District Library.
• Considerable knowledge of available circulating materials and basic reference sources.
• Advanced knowledge of public library computer hardware and software applications and how to access and search them.
• Ability to work under general supervision with latitude in exercising independent judgment and discretion subject to Library policies, procedures and professional practices.
• Interpersonal and communication skills necessary to interact with various library staff and patrons in an effective and courteous manner.  Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms.  Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Analytical ability to maintain accurate statistics.
• Visual acuity and physical skills necessary to retrieve library materials from shelves and storage areas, maintain library materials and operate equipment.  The incumbent is required to have the physical ability to push/pull fully loaded book carts and lift/carry materials weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Hearing ability to answer telephone and patron inquiries.
• Computer skills necessary to effectively access information on the computer.
• Ability to operate a variety of library equipment including a computer, fax and copy machine.

• Generally will work within a normal office environment, with minimal discomfort due to extreme temperatures, dust, and noise. 
• Requires occasional travel between KDL locations, and may include out of county travel for meetings and conferences. 
• Work hours are varied, including evenings and weekend hours. 
• Frequent sitting/standing in one position for extended periods of time.

Kent District Library is committed to the use of evidence-based selection hiring practices to ensure the recruitment of highly qualified candidates. As part of this commitment, we utilize pre-employment assessments that are scientifically validated and job-related. These assessments are designed to objectively evaluate candidates' skills, abilities, and potential for success in specific roles.

Legal Compliance:

1. Non-Discrimination: All pre-employment assessments used by our organization comply with federal anti-discrimination laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). We ensure that these assessments do not disproportionately exclude individuals based on race, color, sex, national origin, religion, disability, or age.
2. Job-Relatedness: Our assessments are developed and validated to measure skills and traits that are directly related to the job requirements. This alignment with job duties is in accordance with the Uniform Guidelines on Employee Selection Procedures (UGESP), which provide interpretive guidelines to ensure equitable and non-discriminatory hiring practices.
3. Objectivity and Fairness: By using professionally developed and validated assessments, we enhance the objectivity and fairness of our hiring process. This reduces the likelihood of unconscious bias and increases the accuracy of hiring decisions.

Evidence-Based Approach:

1. Data-Driven Decisions: Our selection process relies on measurable data, such as performance metrics and structured interview results, rather than intuition. This approach ensures that hiring decisions are based on objective, verifiable evidence.
2. Continuous Improvement: We regularly review and update our assessment tools to ensure they remain valid and reliable. This ongoing evaluation helps us maintain high standards in our hiring practices and adapt to evolving job requirements.

By adhering to these principles, our organization strives to create a fair, equitable, and legally defensible hiring process that attracts and retains top talent.

The library employment environment typically requires extensive computer keyboard and mouse activity, in-person, electronic and telephone communication skills. Meeting attendance at various branch and service center locations is expected; self-identified mode of transportation is required. The preparation, loading and carrying or moving of materials is commonly required for all KDL positions. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.  

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Recruiting and hiring practices are based solely on job-related criteria. If you require assistance or special accommodations during any part of the application process, contact the Human Resources Department at humanresourcesemail@kdl.org or 616-784-2226.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person assigned to this job. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties that may be performed by a person so classified.