Librarian I

FLSA Level I/II: Exempt

DEFINITION

Under close direction (Librarian I) or general direction (Librarian II), performs routine to complex professional library work involving the collection and retrieval of information, including evaluation, selection, cataloging, and weeding of library materials; develops library and outreach programs; performs reference, research, and readers’ advisory services; and performs related duties as assigned. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives close (Librarian I) or general (Librarian II) supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises technical and functional direction over and provides training to lower level staff. 

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Librarian I: This is the entry-level class in the Librarian series.  Initially under close supervision, incumbents perform the more routine duties while learning County policies and procedures and becoming familiar with library systems and practices.  As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence.  Positions at the I-level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods.  Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern.  Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. 

 Librarian II: This is the journey-level classification in the Librarian series.   Positions at this level are responsible for independently performing professional duties in support of the library operations. Positions at this level exercise judgment and initiative in their assigned tasks, receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.  

Positions in the Librarian class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II-level are normally filled by advancement from the I-level, after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class.?  

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Typical functions may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, abilities, and other characteristics.  The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.

 Some duties, knowledge, skills and abilities may be performed in a learning capacity for entry-level (I Level) positions.

• Plans, develops, promotes, and implements specialized services and programs for children, youth, adults, and general community outreach to promote reading and lifelong learning or to meet specific group needs, including giving book talks, conducting book clubs, and telling/reading stories. 
• Assists with the development of library collections, including ordering, purchasing, distribution, and use of books and other materials in area(s) of specialization; reviews and recommends the acquisition of new materials for the library’s collection; assists in identifying materials to be removed from the collection. 
• Classifies and catalogs books and other materials using the Dewey Decimal System, Library of Congress Subject Headings, On-line Computer Library Center (OCLC) and other resources. 
• Assesses patron needs; assists and advises them in making effective use of library resources and services including digital resources; assists patrons of all ages by answering reference questions accurately using a variety of print, electronic, and other sources. 
• Prepares subject reading lists and resource bibliographies; develops and maintains special files and collections; prepares effective displays and other visual material. 
• Leads or assists in the preparation of grant proposals and/or the development and management of required documentation for grant funded programs. 
• Participates in developing and implementing goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and work standards for assigned area of responsibility, function, or branch; suggests changes and solutions to library policies. 
• Provides technical guidance and direction to library staff and volunteers in the area of program responsibility; may recruit and train staff in work procedures. 
• Monitors usage of library budget in area of responsibility. 
• Participates in professional development activities, including attending workshops, continuing education programs, and regional or state library association activities.             
• Makes presentations to school and community groups regarding library programs and resources; represents the library and community meetings and provides outreach service to communities. 
• Maintains records and prepares periodic or special reports regarding branch activities or related matters.
• Coordinates, plans, and oversees programs to special audiences. 
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• Policies, procedures, and functions of public library service. 
• Public library information resources, information access, technology, and services. 
• Principles of professional library work including familiarity with current trends in library services; methods, and techniques of library classification and cataloging, and library programming.   
• A wide variety of books, authors, and collection development resources. 
• Patron advisory methods and practices. 
• Database searching techniques. 
• Organizational and management practices as applied to the analysis and evaluation of programs, policies and operational needs. 
• Principles and techniques for working with groups and fostering effective team interaction to ensure teamwork is conducted smoothly.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability To:

• Plan, organize, supervise, review, and evaluate library activities and programs. 
• Assess library patron needs and provide accurate service information. 
• Assess and meet community needs in the area of library services. 
• Classify and catalog a wide range of books and library materials, using both manual and computerized procedures. 
• Identify operational problems, evaluate alternatives, and make sound recommendations. 
• Plan and implement specialized programs, including performing outreach work. 
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed. 
• Effectively represent the department and the County in meetings with governmental agencies; community groups; various business, professional, and regulatory organizations; and in meetings with individuals. 
• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments. 
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, and procedural guidelines.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:

Librarian I: Must be actively enrolled in an accredited university with major coursework in Library Science; and

Six (6) months of experience in a library, education or technology field.  

The candidates will supply a letter from their attending university stating degree program and verification of credits needed for graduation; must obtain Master’s degree by the end of the probationary period.

Librarian II: Master’s degree from an accredited university with major coursework in library science; and

One (1) year of experience equivalent to the County’s Librarian I.

 Certifications and Licenses:

• Must possess a valid US driver’s license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver’s license following hire date per California DMV regulations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites; primarily a sedentary office classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required; occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information; ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 50 pounds or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen. 
• Hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. 
• Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Employees work in a library setting with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and infrequent direct exposure to hazardous substances.  
• Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.    
• Must be willing to work evenings and weekends.

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS UTILIZED

• Equipment utilized includes personal computer, fax machine, and standard office equipment.

Disaster Service Worker

All Butte County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.