Job Description
POSITION SUMMARY:
Under direct supervision of the Director, the Cataloger/Reference Librarian fulfills the dual role of cataloging library materials and providing direct library services to people of all ages. Cataloging duties include original and complex copy cataloging of print and non-print materials and maintaining the accuracy of the database. Reference duties include assisting adults and teens in selecting library materials, using library resources, providing reading suggestions and research assistance. In addition, reference staff assists patrons with computers, printing, and copying. The Cataloger/Reference Librarian will also help provide technical assistance and support contact for cataloging, circulation and other library based software, and other duties as assigned.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Cataloging
- Responsible for original, complex and copy cataloging of materials in all formats.
- Interprets and applies AACR2/RDA, authority, metadata, and other professional standards.
- Assures consonance between bibliographic records and library holdings. May coordinate inventory, shelf-reading, and/or barcoding projects.
- Troubleshoot cataloging problems and catalog/circulation systems as required. Anticipates related problems and proposes solutions as appropriate.
- Maintain and update holdings in the Iowa Locator.
- Provides professional assistance to library staff in answering inquiries concerning the application of cataloging principles and practices.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Reference
- Provide reference and readers advisory services to the public in person and via telephone and electronic communication channels.
- Assist and provide support to customers in locating information and using library digital and print collections, resources, equipment, services, and electronic databases.
- Assist patrons with genealogy searches and use of the library’s local history collection and digital newspaper archive.
- Assist patrons with technology and internet issues.
- Present information about library services and programs, in both written and verbal formats, to individuals and groups of all ages.
- Maintain confidentiality in all patron and staff interactions.
- Collaborate with the Reference team and a library staff of 20.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Miscellaneous
- Serve as the volunteer coordinator.
- Obtain and maintain the State of Iowa Public Librarian’s Certificate.
- Participate in library staff meetings and training sessions.
- Share responsibility for website and social media updates
- Establish and maintain connections with community organizations and individuals.
EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS:
- A Bachelor's degree plus at least one year of experience performing original and copy cataloging of library materials in a variety of formats is required.
- A Master of Library Science degree from an ALA accredited institution is preferred.
- New graduates and currently enrolled Master’s students are encouraged to apply.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Thorough knowledge of the methods and principles of contemporary bibliographic-maintenance standards and practices, including AACR2, RDA, Dewey Decimal Classification system, Library of Congress subject headings, OCLC/MARC records, authority control, and integrated library system (ILS) products.
- Intermediate to advanced skills in word processing, databases, spreadsheets, online search tools, social media and an Integrated Library System (ILS).
- Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing, including formal communications and making presentations.
- The ability to set priorities, work independently, and make independent decisions when circumstances warrant.
- Exceptional customer service.
- Strong organization skills and the ability to concentrate on a task despite frequent distractions.
- Maintain regular job attendance in accordance with a schedule established for the position by the Director.
- Knowledge of current developments, trends, practices and philosophy in library services.
- Bilingual ability in Spanish is highly desirable.
ESSENTIAL PHYICAL ABILITIES
- Performs manual labor while participating in the completion of various operational tasks, such as setting up tables for programming.
- Must be able to lift and carry books or boxes weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Able to push a fully loaded book-cart weighing up to 200 lbs.
- Periodic walking, standing, stooping, sitting, reaching, required in normal course of performing essential duties.
- Talking, hearing and seeing are essential to effective performance of the job.
- Common eye, hand, finger dexterity required for most essential functions.
Benefits & Additional Compensation Info
COMPENSATION:
- Vacation and sick leave (15 vacation days, 2 personal days, 7 paid holidays and 12 sick days per year)
- IPERS (Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System)
- Contribution towards health insurance
Additional Info & Requirements
Apply via email with a cover letter, resume, and 3 references to Ketta Lubberstedt-Arjes, Library Director, at kettala@kylib.org. Preference given to applications received by September 13, 2021.
The Community
Kendall Young Library, a privately funded public library, is a forward-thinking, rural library rooted in a rich history in Webster City, Iowa. As a smaller library (town population around 8,000), our staff have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects and tasks.
Website
www.kylib.org