Library Specialist/Reference

Under supervision this position is responsible for providing reference service for library patrons and assisting with Technical Services and/or reference services accordingly.

• Assists Library patrons in research, reference, reader's advisory, and the use of library equipment, including computers, the Internet, materials, and files. 
• Maintains reference and genealogical materials as required by Library or New Mexico State Library. 
• Answers the phone and routes calls. 
• Assists at the Circulation Desk. Compiles statistical information on Reference Desk operations and activities. 
• Schedules exhibits in display cases and maintains displays relating to library activities. 
• Provides information to other personnel about new materials received in the Reference collection, where they are located, and what types of questions each will answer. 
• Maintains the periodical collection, display shelves, and storage area. 
• Maintains supplies for public use such as pencils, paper, and copier consumables. 
• Oversees and assist the public in the use of computers, copiers and printers. 
• Assists in shelving and shelf reading, and the weeding and maintenance of the Reference and nonfiction collection.
• Assists in the attainment of department goals and objectives related to Master, Strategic and Comprehensive Plans. 
• Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly with City Administration, department directors, consultants, staff, and the public to provide quality services. 
• Participates various special and recurring projects. 
• Keeps immediate supervisor fully and accurately informed on issues. 
• Identifies areas of concern for management for review and potential action. 
• Assists and participates in the execution of short and long-range plans. 
• Gathers, interprets and prepares data and information for studies, reports, correspondence and recommendations. 
• Coordinates activities with other departments and agencies as needed. 
• Reviews and provides reports and prepares and maintains required departmental records. 
• Responds to and resolves various complaints, issues, inquiries, and problems as authorized, and in accordance with established policies and procedures. 
• Ensures effective and efficient use of budgeted funds, personnel, materials, facilities and time. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Equivalent to a high school diploma plus three (3) year of library experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience that would likely produce the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Licenses and Certificates:

• Certification by the State of New Mexico at Grade II level or equivalent library training is required within one (1) year.

• Municipal organization operations, policies and procedures.
• Principles and practices of public library systems.
• Books, authors, periodicals, references, cataloging principles.
• Current and emerging models, practices, and tools used by public libraries for the access and discover-ability of resources.
• Dewey Decimal System, OCLC, and cataloging materials in specialized categories.
• Searching and information retrieval techniques and methods.
• Customer service techniques.

• Standard office procedures and equipment.
• Operation of personal computers utilizing standard and specialized software.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, and the public.
• Keep records and compile reports.
• Respond to inquiries from the public.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Physical Requirements

• Stand or sit for prolonged periods of time. Occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist. 
• Lift, carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight. 
• Use repetitive hand movements, fine coordination and manual dexterity which permits the employee to operate standard office equipment and computer systems.
• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing to permit the employee to discern verbal instructions, use a phone, and communicate with others. 
• Sufficient visual acuity which permits the employee to comprehend written work instructions and review, evaluate, and prepare a variety of written materials.

Working Conditions

• Work typically performed in a standard office and library setting with occasional travel to various sites and facilities. 
• Regular attendance is an essential function of this job to ensure continuity of services. 
• Occasional work beyond normal business hours. 
• Position is subject to drug testing and regular driver’s license monitoring in accordance with applicable State and Federal regulations and City of Clovis policies.