Library Technology Specialist

City of Homer Alaska•Homer, AK

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Library Technology Specialist provides technical support for equipment and information systems at the Homer Public Library and serves patrons directly at the front desk. The role works with the Library Director and the City of Homer Information Technology Department to maintain library systems, research technology developments, advise on improvements, and help staff and patrons troubleshoot technology issues. The specialist also collaborates with library staff to maintain and update the library website. Work is generally independent, with professional supervision when starting new tasks or special projects. The position assists the Library Director and City IT staff in developing and applying technology procedures for the library at a division level. It requires initiative, tact, diplomacy, and the ability to respond to changing schedules or assignments. The role has frequent public and IT/service-personnel contact, occasional contact with government and City personnel, and infrequent presentation or public-meeting duties. The work takes place in an office environment and includes evening and weekend availability.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited four-year college with one year of library experience, or education equivalent to two years at the college level with three years of library experience.
Proficiency with common operating systems and platforms, including Windows and ChromeOS, and common office software and technology.
Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to identify, resolve, or escalate technical issues effectively.
Clear and accurate technical-documentation skills, including service ticket summaries, how-to instructions, labeling, and simple diagramming.
General knowledge of information security and the ability to assess and compare the security implications of different technical approaches.
Ability to maintain an effective working relationship with the City IT Department to ensure data security and regulatory compliance.
Working knowledge of library organization, reference sources and techniques, the Dewey Decimal System, and reader's advisory.
Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions efficiently and effectively.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
Ability to train others in library functions and maintain effective working relationships with the public, staff, and volunteers.
Ability to monitor several tasks simultaneously and work under pressure.
Ability to resolve problems and complaints.
Tact and diplomacy in answering questions and providing assistance in a knowledgeable and nonjudgmental manner.
Availability for evening and weekend work and ability to respond to schedule or assignment changes without undue diminution in work quality or quantity.
Ability to stand, sit, and walk for three or more hours per day; bend and stretch without limitation; lift up to 10 pounds at a time; and push a wheeled, loaded book truck weighing up to 120 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Experience with library-specific software and databases is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Serve patrons at the library front desk, handling materials, answering reference questions, helping patrons locate information, teaching them about library resources, enforcing library rules, and performing other service functions.
Collaborate with library staff to maintain and update the library website.
Maintain, upgrade, configure, replace, and troubleshoot library equipment.
Upgrade or replace software and online subscriptions.
Coordinate with vendors and plan transitions from one technology to another.
Research developments in library technology and advise the Library Director and Homer IT Department on improvements.
Participate in testing and refinement of library systems.
Help library staff and patrons troubleshoot technology issues.
Assist the Library Director and City IT staff in developing and applying technology procedures for the library.
Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.
Train library staff in assigned tasks when called upon.