Principal Clerk - Library

Definition

Paraprofessional, clerical, and direct service work supporting library services at the public library; all other related work, as required.

Supervision

Work is performed under the general supervision of the Library Director and/or Assistant Director. Performs various routine, but responsible, library functions according to prescribed procedures, requiring attention to detail, accuracy, initiative, and reliability.

Job Environment

  • Work is performed under typical library conditions; is required to work during the evening or on weekend as part of regularly scheduled hours.
  • Operates computers and standard office equipment for all aspects of library work.
  • Has constant contact with library patrons to assess their needs.
  • Supervises Library Aides on Circulation Desk through ongoing training.
  • Supervises volunteers with shelving and filing shelf list cards.
  • Makes frequent contact with other SAILS libraries (SAILS is a library network comprising 40 Southeastern MA towns and city libraries) and regional organizations, as well as libraries throughout the state through the Commonwealth Catalog.
  • Errors could result in misplaced or lost materials, loss of goodwill with library patrons, and lower standards of library services.
  • Manages library in the absence of Library Director and Assistant Director.

Essential Functions

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

  • Opens and closes library, including turning on and off computer terminals and office equipment, checking all rooms, and setting the alarm system.
  • Provides technical and clerical support services in the library; assists users in obtaining information and library materials, such as locating and retrieving books and materials from stacks and archives; assists patrons with photocopier.
  • Teaches patrons how to search the electronic catalog, Enterprise, and other online databases for materials within the network and outside of the network.
  • Verifies patron requests in the following databases: Commonwealth Catalog, Books In Print Online and other online sources such as Amazon.com. Places holds for interlibrary loans through the regional interlibrary loan center and periodical requests through Boston Public Library.
  • Charges and discharges materials at the circulation desk. Organizes the reserve shelves and notifies patrons when requested materials are available.
  • Registers new patrons and issues library cards, entering relevant information into the databases. Verifies information and renews existing cards. Collects fines and other fees.
  • Runs daily and monthly reports, such as overdue materials list, holds list, and circulation statistics.
  • Answers the telephone, directing calls to the appropriate staff person or assisting the caller with general and reference questions, and taking messages when necessary.
  • Catalogs new hardcover, paperback, audiovisual materials, periodicals, and local history material on the computer.
  • Attends to library software updates, including anti-virus updates.
  • Troubleshoots hardware and software issues with technical support from SAILS.
  • Attends training workshops/webinars for system upgrades and attends circulation/cataloging meetings at SAILS as required.
  • Performs miscellaneous typing and filing, including Town Warrants and desktop publishing; distributes incoming mail; oversees incoming shipments including materials, office supplies, and cataloging supplies.
  • Keeps track of inventory and orders office, cataloging, and archival supplies.
  • Instructs patrons on set-up and use of E-readers and E-reader applications (Overdrive).
  • Keeps social media sites updated and relevant.
  • Performs mending and cleaning of all materials.
  • Assists in cataloging and organization of materials in the local history room.

Recommended Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

Minimum Associate Degree required, one year library experience preferred; some experience in dealing with the general public; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Ability, and Skill

  • Knowledge of basic library principles and procedures.
  • Knowledge of state-of-the-art computer operations.
  • Ability to work with library staff and the general public (adults and children) in a courteous and tactful manner. Ability to follow directions and complete tasks.
  • Ability to be reliable and responsible and to pay attention to details.
  • Ability to use a keyboard at efficient speed with proficiency in Microsoft and Excel.

Physical Requirements

Light physical effort required in performing functions under typical library conditions. May be required to lift and stack books; may be required to move and arrange furniture. Intermittent walking, reaching, crouching, climbing, and similar activities related to library service.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Revised February 2017

Approved by Board of Selectmen 2/6/17

Approved by L.A.W. 2/10/17

Westport, Massachusetts

Principal Clerk - Library