LibraryJobline

Job Description

Job Summary

The Cataloging Assistant creates and maintains an accurate, updated catalog of library resources to meet the needs of the library’s diverse customers and contribute to the Library District's effective operation. Locates appropriate bibliographic records; performs complex editing to improve and enhance the data according to national and local cataloging standards; analyzes subject matter in order to assign appropriate call numbers and subject headings; derives data from bibliographic records to create new ones; and provides customer service to include end user's experience.

Essential Functions

1. Provide regular, courteous, helpful, and efficient customer service to both internal and external customers in response to their queries.
2. Perform bibliographic searches using online sources such as OCLC, vendors' databases and the district's integrated library system (ILS).
3. Perform copy cataloging activities of bibliographic records to enhance discoverability and equity of access to materials in the collection. This is achieved by using the Library’s Integrated Library System (ILS), OCLC Connexxion, and online tools to identify, import and edit bibliographic and item records using knowledge of Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC), Anglo American Cataloging Rules (AACR2) and Sno-Isle Libraries local cataloging procedures for classifying library materials.
4. Regularly perform catalog maintenance by generating and analyzing reports using Polaris and vendor supplied data including removing records for expired digital content from the ILS and editing call numbers, subject headings, and collection assignments for bibliographic and item records in the ILS.
5. Review bibliographic records designated by community library staff for editing and determine appropriate action based on condition, circulation history, and subject analysis using established guidelines.
6. Maintain the accuracy of holding records in OCLC to support Inter-library loan service.
7. Contribute to documentation of cataloging procedures and provide input and feedback on workflow improvements.

Additional Duties and Responsibilities

1. Performs specialized duties in support of department services as directed.
2. Prepares correspondences and reports.
3. Trains new staff as needed.
4. Attends meetings, trainings, and workshops as assigned.
5. Assists with special projects as required.
6. Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervision

The position typically reports to a division manager or assistant manager. Supervision of others is not a normal part of the position’s work.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1. Knowledge of on-line bibliographic (OCLC preferred), web-based databases and techniques of searching and accessing those resources.
2. Knowledge of established practices and procedures for an integrated library system (ILS) and Library District policies and procedures.
3. Knowledge of end users' customer experience.
4. Strong customer service skills.
5. Strong organization and attention to detail.
6. Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
7. Ability to work independently and to set priorities.
8. Ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
9. Ability to work cooperatively and maintain effective interpersonal skills with others.
10. Ability to operate relevant computer systems including hardware and software, such as Microsoft Word, electronic databases, email, and internet navigation in addition to other office equipment and security systems.

Education and Experience

1. The knowledge, skills and abilities typically are acquired through a combination of training and experience including a college-level education or specialized training such as library science, or other profession-based subject areas.
2. Two years' related professional experience required or equivalent combination of technical training and related experience.

Physical and Environmental Conditions

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a staff member to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent must operate computers for extended periods of time. Incumbents may be required to move carts of books and other materials and frequently remain stationary at one workstation for extended periods of time. An incumbent must frequently move objects or other materials weighing up to 35 pounds, including transfer of books and other materials to and from carts or shelves of varying heights. Most of the work is carried out within a generally accessible indoor environment.

The following questions will be asked during the application process:

1. Provide two detailed examples of your experience providing direct customer service in a library or public service environment.
2. Provide at least two specific examples of your experience using web-based databases, such as OCLC, and other library vendor databases.
3. Provide one example of a time you had to use good organizational skills and pay attention to a lot of details to avoid mistakes. What did you do to stay focused on the task? How did you check your work for accuracy? Be specific.
4. Provide one example to illustrate your experience using an integrated library computer system.
5. One philosophy about standards and policies is that they are to be followed to the letter; another is that they are just guidelines. What is your opinion? How do you see this relating to customer-focused service?

The Community

Sno-Isle Libraries is a large, two-county library district in the beautiful north Puget Sound region of Washington State. District boundaries stretch from rugged timberlands to suburban centers, from rolling farmlands to the ocean vistas. Set in the fastest-growing corner of the state, Sno-Isle Libraries serves more than 770,000 residents through 23 community libraries, online services, Library on Wheels, and our website at www.sno-isle.org.

Website
https://www.sno-isle.org/

Human Resources / Job Listings
https://www.sno-isle.org/employment/