unBound Library Assistant

Meridian Library District•Meridian, ID

6d•$17 - $19

About The Position

The unBound Associate Librarian position provides patron-focused library service in response to the needs of library users and members of the community including technology, business, and information needs. The incumbent assists with the daily operations of the library and performs related duties as assigned. Work is performed independently and may include locations outside of the library in the community. The majority of time is spent providing direct customer service at the library and in the community, assisting with library initiatives, maintaining library partnerships, providing technology and reference support and planning and leading library programs.

Requirements

Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Proficient in project management and event planning. Ability to foster and sustain partnerships. Ability to establish, measure, and evaluate program outcomes. Proficient in creating and administering surveys and other evaluation tools.
Proficient with standard office applications (including Microsoft Office and Google applications), online library automation systems and online searching. Understands the role of technology in providing library services and is proficient in that technology. Ability to learn and adapt to new software and equipment technologies. Technically savvy with a high learning aptitude across operating systems and applications, including Windows and Mac OS, Adobe Creative Cloud applications, audio/visual equipment, and maker/prototyping tools.
Provides exemplary customer service and maintains a favorable public image of the library. The incumbent has a desire to work in a public service role. Has excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively and appropriately with people, including patrons, volunteers and coworkers, of all ages from diverse backgrounds. Builds and maintains positive working relationships with individuals at all levels of the organization and fosters positive partnerships with outside organizations. Actively promotes respect for diversity and supports an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful library atmosphere. Must be able to juggle multiple priorities and work independently at a location when required.
2-4 years of experience in library services or similar experience. Experience with project management, event planning, public speaking, and acting or regularly performing before an audience. Experience providing technology support, troubleshooting hardware and software, and supporting maker or prototyping tools is preferred.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education, training, or experience.
Valid Idaho driver’s license in good standing or the ability to obtain one.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual, preferably Spanish-English, Russian-English, or other languages.
Experience working with multi-generational populations.
Proficiency with Windows and Mac operating systems; knowledge of 3D printing, CNC, laser cutting/engraving, or similar prototyping tools; strong technology troubleshooting skills.
Desired personal attributes include: a positive approach to interacting with the public, an awareness of the entire community, a passion for engaging patrons from all backgrounds and ages, a continuous desire to update technology skills, and a sense of humor.

Responsibilities

Assists librarians and library leadership with strategic library initiatives providing operational support. Uses principles of project management to support progress on large scale projects. Works with a variety of community partners and helps to maintain relationships tied to both programs and library initiatives. Works collaboratively with other locations, departments, and community partners.
Actively seeks out and discovers program and event topics that are strategic, appealing and relevant to community interests including technology, business, and maker-related topics. Plans, develops, organizes, schedules, and implements informational and educational events and programs for the library. Conducts programs in person and remotely. Develops program plans in adherence to the library’s strategic priorities. Supports library leadership and management with budget needs and allocations. Works collaboratively with other locations and departments to plan and implement district-wide programs that advance the library’s strategic goals. Continuously evaluates programs for learning outcomes and to make improvements based on attendee and management feedback. Oversees the set-up and takedown of programs and events. Assists in developing and delivering technology-focused and hands-on programs as assigned.
Provides excellent customer service to library patrons at public service desks, on the phone, virtually, and offsite with community partners. Assists library visitors with account issues and the circulation of library materials. Provides informational and reference assistance to patrons and refers questions as needed. Makes decisions based on library policies and procedures. Determines customer needs and advises patrons about library materials, reading suggestions, resources, and technology equipment. Aids visitors in regards to library services including databases, technology, circulation, maker equipment, and quality online sources. Actively promotes respect for diversity and supports an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful library atmosphere. Exhibits good working knowledge of adult, teen, and children’s literature, related media, and materials. Arrives at work location on time, ready to interact with the public.
Performs duties required of daily library operations, including opening and closing procedures, both within the library buildings and in the community. Assists with staff training. Performs circulation duties including issuing cards, checking materials in and out, reserving books, collecting fees, and answering the phone. May be required to drive a vehicle for delivery or outreach purposes. Processes requests for holds; conducts catalog searches, retrieves materials from the stacks, searches for materials, and checks for availability of materials. Maintains confidentiality of patron information.
Uses conferencing and video recording and editing technology effectively in the production of virtual programs. Provides support to patrons who bring their technology devices or use the library’s hardware and software. Assists patrons with computer use, printing, and copying. Provides basic technology instruction. Provides advanced technology support including troubleshooting library technology equipment and patron devices. Maintains and supports maker and prototyping services, including but not limited to 3D printing services by setting up prints, managing print queues, operating printers, and performing scheduled maintenance on maker equipment. Assists patrons with audio/visual equipment, meeting room technology, and sound studio equipment as applicable. Exhibits a strong aptitude for learning and adapting to new hardware, software, operating systems, and emerging technologies.
Promotes library collections, services, and programs. Supports library marketing efforts as designated by library leadership.
Maintains accurate records, collects statistics, tracks performance measures and prepares reports related to library services, programs, and events as directed by administration. Produces program plans that include ways to measure learning outcomes and track program success. Completes clerical tasks such as record maintenance, compiling lists, and drafting resource guides in both an office setting and remotely. Maintains personal and public calendars to ensure room availability and program promotion. Maintains good attendance and timekeeping records.