Librarian

County of Chester•Chester County Library - Exton, PA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Chester County Library has an opening for a Part Time Librarian in the Reference Department. This position is responsible for serving patrons in a high-volume, fast-paced library. The librarian assuming this position will provide direct research and reference services to adults and young adults in-person, over the phone, and online. The librarian will serve as an official passport agent to process passport applications for the public. The librarian will participate in the library’s community outreach initiative and be a contributing member of library committees, as applicable. This position requires an ALA accredited M.L.S. with excellent oral and written communication skills. One year of reference experience, knowledge of print and electronic resources preferred. Candidates should have excellent time management, organization skills and exemplify teamwork, enthusiasm, flexibility, energy, and a genuine enjoyment of working with the public. This position will include daytime and evening hours, and a rotating weekend schedule. This position requires the following physical abilities: to handle, lift, move, shift library materials weighing up to 25 lbs.; to wheel book-carts weighing up to 125 lbs.; to operate a keyboard; to stand, sit, kneel, walk, stoop, reach repeatedly throughout the workday. All library positions require the following criminal background and child abuse clearances: Report of criminal history from the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP); Child Abuse History Clearance from the Department of Human Services (Child Abuse); and Fingerprint based federal criminal history submitted through the Pennsylvania State Police or its authorized agent (FBI). All employees of the Chester County Library are considered a mandated reporter of suspected child abuse under the Child Protective Services Law (Title 23 Pa. C.S.A. Chapter 63).

Requirements

Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Library or Information Science or ability to attain one within 1 year.
Working knowledge of the American Library Association Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to View Statement.
Commitment to providing excellent customer service.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to handle stressful situations.
Ability to use common sense understanding to carry out written or verbal instructions.
Flexibility and ability to accept change.
Accurate and detail-oriented.
Ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
Ability to establish priorities.
Work includes evening shifts and weekend shifts in rotation.
PA Criminal background check.
PA Child abuse clearance.
FBI Fingerprint-based Criminal Background check
Basic computer knowledge and skill to use Windows software
Basic Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) skills
Basic knowledge of virtual communication platforms (ex. Zoom, Webex, Teams)
Proficient in using databases and the internet

Nice To Haves

One year of job-related library experience.
Master's degree from an ALA-accredited college or university in Library or Information Science.
Familiarity with the principles and practices of public library service.
Knowledge of the use of review sources.
Strong communication skills in person, over the phone, and by email.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge and skill with standard office equipment (e.g., fax, copier, etc.).
Exhibits sound and accurate judgment.
Ability to remain focused on daily operations.
Ability to handle and resolve recurring problems.
Proactive and flexible.
Strong time management skills.
Ability to speak in public (presentation and storytelling skills).

Responsibilities

Staff the library’s service desk(s)
Provide guidance in finding library materials.
Provide general reference and advisory services.
Assist in collection development and maintenance.
Plan, produce and promote library programs, presenting in-house and/or virtual programs as well as coordinating with outside organizations/presenters.
Complete assigned projects that support the library’s annual goals and objectives.
Participate in community outreach activities.
Assist supervisor with daily operations and provide reports, as needed.
Assist with creating daily schedules and ensure there is adequate coverage.
Serve as part of the Person in Charge team on rotation.
Participate in continuing education workshops, seminars and conferences as needed to keep current in the field.
Perform other duties, tasks and special projects, as required.