Library Specialist: Heritage Room (HE-01)

Position: Library Specialist: Heritage Room (HE-01); Athens-Clarke County Library, Athens, GA Status: Full-time; hourly; nonexempt; with benefits Hours: 40 hours per week; evenings & weekends required Hourly Rate: $17 per hour Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Bilingual Skills (English-Spanish) preferred but not required.

Position Summary

The Athens Regional Library System is hiring a Library Specialist to work as a member of the Archives & Special Collections team at the Athens-Clarke County Library Heritage Room. We seek an enthusiastic, creative individual who proactively searches for opportunities to deliver quality library services that engage the community and exceed expectations.

This position provides genealogy and local history assistance to patrons in the Heritage Room, provides administrative support to the librarians and archivists within the Heritage Room, and plans and provides programming. This position requires excellent customer service skills, knowledge of reference interview techniques and basic print and online genealogy reference resources, familiarity with archival principles, and technical skills to assist patrons using computers and scanning equipment.  Position reports to the ARLS Archives and Special Collections Coordinator.

Minimum Training & Experience

This position requires a bachelor’s degree and three to four years of public service experience, or any combination of education, training, and experience that provides requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for the position. Enrollment or the intention of enrollment in an ALA-accredited Master of Library and Information Science program or Master of Archival Science program is preferred.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following are normal, but not exclusive or all-inclusive, expectations for this job. Other duties of a similar nature or level may be required as assigned, and job assignments and work schedule are subject to change in the future.

Provides assistance and instruction to patrons in genealogy research, using locally available databases, books, archival materials, and other resources available through the library. Plans, implements, promotes, and presents local history and genealogy-based programs and classes for the public. Plans and develops  library book displays, archival exhibits, and research guides. Processes book donations and purchases. Processes, describes, and maintains physical and digital archival collections. Provides support in many areas of daily library operations, including (but not limited to) organizing and shelving materials; routing information; recording statistics; basic maintenance; performing basic office duties; writing blog posts and contributing social media content. Upholds all library policies, including the Patron Responsibilities and Conduct statement; monitors and responds to safety and security of library patrons and campus; reports situations according to established procedures. Must independently operate Heritage Room during night and weekend work assignments, including following opening and closing procedures. Meets System expectation to participate in at least two approved off-site outreach programs each year; promotes Heritage Room programs and services in the community.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Skill in upholding the library’s core values; ability to provide external and internal service that is welcoming, committed to excellence, inclusive, and respectful and that supports the community and co-workers. Knowledge of customer service principles and skill in providing efficient, positive, and professional customer service to patrons of all ages as well as to co-workers. Knowledge of genealogy sources, including books, indexes, microforms, databases, original records, websites, and serials; knowledge of principles and practices of records management and preservation of library and archival materials. Ability to use digital scanning equipment; knowledge of library technology services and ability to learn new technologies in a timely manner. Knowledge of PINES library catalog and library subscription databases. Knowledge of ArchiveSpace, DACS, and EAD standards and records. Knowledge of web archiving methods, best practices, and principles. Ability to exercise good judgment and make independent and critical decisions using established practices and procedures. Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to answer questions and explain procedures and policies. Knowledge of programs, activities and facilities of the Athens Regional Library System. Ability to handle a busy public service desk and to remain calm under demanding, stressful conditions; ability to successfully address conflicts and resolve problems. Ability to keep up-to-date on library-related trends and developments, and to learn new technologies in a timely manner. Organizational skills and the ability to prioritize assignments and activities. Ability to maintain regular, predictable, and punctual attendance. Physical demand requirements are at levels of Medium Work.

Position Disclosure Statement

Athens Regional Library System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the library may provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees to discuss potential necessary accommodations. The library is a drug-free workplace and may require drug testing according to established policy.  Hiring is contingent upon verification of identity; United States employment eligibility authorization through E-Verify will be required. Georgia is an open records state. Due to the volume of applications, applicants may not receive a reply from the library unless the applicant is selected for an interview.

Submit completed online ARLS job application at www.athenslibrary.org, including a resume and cover letter describing your qualifications for this position.