Under general supervision of the Youth Services Supervisor, the Library Associate II provides high quality information and reader services to teens (ages 12-18) in the North East community while consistently delivering caring, non-judgmental customer service. Develops and delivers a full range of diverse and innovative programs and services, including community outreach initiatives, for teens (ages 12-18). Manages and maintains dedicated teen room with study rooms, computer lab and collaborative technology station.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Provides information services, including reader’s advisory, research and homework assistance, reference, and technology assistance to teens (ages 12-18) in person, via phone, email, online, etc.
Works collaboratively with system-wide Teen Services team and external presenters to plan and conduct library programs in accordance with educational and development goals that are responsive to the needs of teens (ages 12-18).
Works with Youth Services Supervisor and departmental staff to develop and implement outreach and collaborative programming to local school system and community based organizations.
Conducts research using an array of resources, including the library’s databases and digital services.
Provides information and technology instruction to teens (ages 12-18) in a variety of areas, including library software and hardware, personal device assistance, digital media, and internet and computer usage.
Actively markets library services and programs to teens and their families in the community.
Monitors and maintains the teen collection and makes recommendations for materials to be purchased.
Merchandises and markets collections. Recommends and reviews books and other library materials through various media outlets, including the CCPL website.
Utilizes the library’s circulation database to search for and place holds on materials requested by patrons.
Works with Youth Services Supervisor to implement department or branch goals within overall system goals.
Serves as liaison to the local middle and high schools and community organizations serving teens (ages 12-18).
Represents branch library on system-wide young adult services team.
May serve on system-wide committees.
Monitors and maintains library computers and software, troubleshoots and calls for assistance as needed.
Maintains facility and reports problems to appropriate staff.
Maintains accurate service statistics.
Shelves library materials of all types.
Performs ongoing assignments of moderate to high difficulty.
Other duties as assigned.
JOB STANDARDS:
Promotes and maintains a high standard of customer service, both internal and external.
Demonstrates ability to work with a diverse community.
Models positive attitude toward library technology and change.
Maintains courteous, friendly, and constructive relationships with patrons and staff.
Promotes and advocates a positive library image in the community.
Maintains professional growth and awareness through training, self-directed learning and other means to stay abreast of current and emerging trends in the community and in libraries.
Performs job in keeping with the adopted policies, procedures, and values of the Cecil County Public Library.
CRITICAL SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:
Baccalaureate Degree from an accredited college.
Within two years of appointment, each Library Associate shall have successfully completed Library Associates’ in-service training or nine credit hours of formal academic course work in library science. Such training may have been received prior to the date of appointment. Training provided by CCPL off-site in Maryland.
Previous experience working with teens ages 12-18.
Maintains strong knowledge of adolescent development, learning methods, and literacy practices.
Demonstrated knowledge of users’ interests, books, reader’s advisory and new materials formats for teens ages 12-18.
Excellent customer service skills.
Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
Ability to maintain composure and flexibility in a changing, public facing environment.
Knowledge of Windows operating system, internet resources, social media, and other technologies and how to use them effectively.
Knowledge of a variety of types of electronic hardware devices for computing, listening, viewing, gaming and new technologies.
Willingness and ability to acquire knowledge of library computer systems and applications.
Ability to analyze and perform and or manage a wide variety of library projects.
Excellent technology and computer skills, including various software packages, knowledge of internet resources and how to use them effectively.
Ability to reach, bend and lift up to 35 lbs.
Ability to push/pull a rolling book carts.
Valid Driver’s license.
EQUIPMENT:
Personal computer, laptop, tablets, printers, scanners, photocopier, AV equipment, laminator, book trucks, security system, cash register.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Works in normal heat and light conditions with some exposure to seasonal draft conditions. Some eye fatigue from working at computer terminals; physical fatigue from working at counter height (39") work surface and from repetitive lifting of books, moving wand and pushing carts. Some stress from constant public contact.
FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT: Exempt
SCHEDULE/HOURS:
Full time, 37.5 hours per week. Regular schedule requires evening, daytime and weekend hours.
NOTE:
Certain conditions, e.g. economic constraints, staffing patterns, may necessitate change in job description.