Reader Advisor

Perkins helps kids with disabilities find their place in the world. An international NGO, we are committed to delivering best-in-class education to children, providing immersive training and support to professionals and families, advocating for inclusion, and accelerating innovation for people with disabilities. At Perkins, we think courageously, act collaboratively, and we own our work. Join a supportive community committed to growth where your work makes a difference.

As our Reader Advisor, you will act as the primary point of contact for patrons of the Perkins Library. You will be responsible for assigning audio and  braille books, described videos, large print, and other new and/or emerging accessible formats using the Library's automated circulation system. You will resolve circulation service problems and maintain accurate patron reading records. You will facilitate all aspects of patron book selection and delivery processes. Major Responsibilities Answers incoming telephone lines and assists patrons with information about their book selection, service status, shipments made, requests/reserves processed, and other available services; transfers calls to other staff or takes service messages for other staff as appropriate. Utilizes the Keystone Library Automation System (KLAS) to serve patrons on all aspects of their talking and braille book services.  Creates book orders for patrons by searching request lists, selects books by subject interest or author preferences,  customizes  patrons’ service profiles and serves patrons according to their service preferences. Answers general informational requests from patrons; refers more in-depth questions to the Reference Librarian. Maintains the online patron reading database including updating patron reading interests, service frequency, and type of service data as needed.  Assists patrons in resolving request, selection or service problems. Searches the Library of Congress/National Library Service online catalog to assist patrons in locating titles that are not available locally.  Utilizes  bibliographies  and book lists to supplement holdings to assist patrons with comprehensive book searches. Processes routine interlibrary loan requests to other libraries and Library of Congress Multistate Centers through an electronic national system for interlibrary loan processing; maintains detailed notes of interlibrary loan transactions in the patron database. Prepares orders for books available from other network libraries. Assists patrons making book selections in person at the drop-in area.  Organizes and stocks the front desk area when needed to help keep book selection current for patrons and prepares orders for pickup. Provides basic information on eligibility, registration, equipment; refers calls to other staff as appropriate. Notifies the Registration Unit of updated patron information, status changes or subscription related information such as address changes, transfers, cessation of services, and subscription problems. Handles day-to-day customer service issues; refers all non-routine circulation complaints or questions, recurring service problems or service improvement suggestions to a supervisor. Provides basic technical support with regard to the library’s downloadable book services. Refers more complex cases to the Special Services Librarian. Participates actively in staff meetings and works as a team member with other staff on designated projects and tasks; performs other duties or special projects as assigned by supervisory staff. Assists with the training and supervision of unit volunteer staff.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications  Masters degree in library science from an ALA-accredited program, two (2) years, public library or reference experience.  Demonstrated effectiveness in written and verbal communication skills; demonstrated keyboarding and computer skills. Preference may be given to candidates with the following additional training or experience:

Knowledge of the NLS Braille and Talking Book library network, volunteer services to people with print disabilities, local or regional agencies serving blind or disabled individuals. Previous experience working with blind, visually impaired, physically disabled and/or multi-impaired persons. Working knowledge of braille and/or American Sign Language.

If hired as a regular employee at Perkins, we have benefits that put you first, including an employer contributing retirement plan, tuition reimbursement from day one, professional development, personal days, paid time off and paid sick leave. Our campus is quaint, charming and historical, a perfect mix of legacy and modern buildings. It is located in the heart of Watertown, adjacent to the Charles River and less than 1 mile from food & entertainment at Arsenal Yards.

Full/Part Time

Full Time

Education

MLS/Masters

Salary Range$48,000.00 - $55,000.00  / year

How to Apply

Please email resumes to Gloria Aymie at [email protected]