Library Associate (Children Services), Grade 18

Montgomery County•5501 Massachusetts Ave Bethesda MD 20816 USA, MD

21h•Onsite

About The Position

MCPL has a vision of a world where knowledge allows diverse communities to prosper and grow. In order to support this vision, we create opportunities through meaningful connections by acting as the knowledge sharing center for over 1 million diverse customers. Approximately 500 engaged and passionate staff provide services in 21 library locations and in community engagement using direct outreach and virtual assistance. MCPL is an open, inviting, and vital gateway to the information, ideas and enrichment that strengthens our county. A diverse, highly qualified staff continually assesses community needs and interests to support, encourage and inspire our customers. MCPL believes in the right of all to learn and to grow. We value intellectual freedom, accountability, quality service, diversity, fairness, professional ethics, integrity of information and respect for our customers, our community, and ourselves. We are a learning organization that functions openly by exploring new ideas and using the collective talent, knowledge, and creativity of employees at all levels. The Montgomery County Library System is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. MCPL values diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and cultures. MCPL encourages BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color), immigrants, women, LGBTQIA+, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply. As part of this commitment, MCPL provides reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities to participate in the job application or interview process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position. Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) is seeking innovative team players that embrace the transformative nature of public libraries, who enjoy connecting customers with materials and resources and are eager to learn. The ideal candidate for this role is an effective communicator, is customer service oriented, and a committed public servant who equalizes opportunities for Montgomery County residents. Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply. Additional multi-lingual pay may be available after successfully passing a multilingual examination.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree
Employees in this position must complete LATI, the state’s Library Associates Training Institute, as scheduled, or complete at least 6 hours of coursework in an MLS program accredited by the American Library Association.
Employees will be responsible for maintaining appropriate level of Continuing Education to meet State requirements.
This position requires completion of a pre-employment Medical History Form to assess your ability to safely perform the essential duties of the role.
Ability to perform light physical effort, such as keyboarding, standing, or staying in place for long periods of time and lifting, carrying and/or moving of book tubs, carts and library books and materials weighing 20 pounds, regularly, and up to 50 pounds, as required.
Ability to work effectively and calmly under pressure.

Nice To Haves

Proven experience leading diverse teams.
Emphasis on developing and motivating staff by creating a culture of open communication, coaching and/or supervising personnel, including providing input to or creating performance evaluations and staff schedules.
Experience leading meetings, creating agendas, and/or developing training materials.
Providing customer service and resolving complex customer service issues in a library setting; being person in charge in absence of a manager or supervisor
Technology skills to include knowledge of Integrated Library System (ILS), office equipment, mobile apps, MS Office software and troubleshooting computer hardware and peripherals.
Experience providing direct customer service to Children .
Experience in locating information and materials through general reference, electronic and readers’ advisory services.
Experience or familiarity using Public Access Catalogs and electronic online databases to locate material, place holds, and search indices.
Experience educating and informing groups and/or conducting programs for Children .
Experience with technology such as?software, digital signage, e-readers, iPads, hotspots, Smart TVs, and other equipment to support customer service needs.

Responsibilities

Promotes and supports MCPL’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion values with staff and customers.
Centers the experiences of people and communities who are most affected by structural inequities when engaging in programming, partnerships, and information services work.
Connecting Children and people with disabilities with materials and resources both in-person and over the telephone .
Assist with programming, including staff-led and partner-led events.
Assist with collection maintenance, including shelving and processing of library materials.
Using new technologies and platforms.
Attends meetings and workshops for professional development.
Stays abreast of changes in MCPL policies and procedures, and technologies used by MCPL.
May be assigned to the joint information/circulation service desk, or the circulation desk.
Prepares library exhibits and displays; identifies items of high potential demand or widespread interest.