Job: Carnegie Branch Library Reference Specialist

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Jobing Description

OVERALL JOB OBJECTIVE:

Under the general supervision of Carnegie Branch Services Manager, to provide excellent customer service to library patrons and staff by assisting them with information needs using reference tools and procedures, including print and electronic sources, assist with processing of digital collections and to perform related duties as required.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Provides reference and research assistance to library patrons and staff using a variety of informational resources, including but not limited to:
* Library, city and county databases, card catalog, the Internet, specialized reference resources and the Boulder Genealogical Society's collection housed within the library.
* Utilizes knowledge of Boulder County history, geography and other local archives and organizations to support patrons in accessing local history information not housed in the Carnegie Library.
2. Instructs patrons in Library procedures and educates them on proper use of original, historic, one-of-a-kind library materials, including but not limited to: a variety of cataloged and uncataloged documents, photographs, maps, blueprints, ledgers, books, ephemera, oral histories and newspapers.
3. Processes photograph orders, scans photos and checks reproductions for accuracy and quality.
4. Assists the Archivist with cataloging and processing materials for the collection by creating basic cataloging records of materials to be added to the collection. Uses training and knowledge to correct errors or create additional access points to catalog records to ensure accuracy and detail.
5. Promotes the Carnegie photograph collection to the community by researching specific historical topics and displaying related photographs at the library and online using content management system software, and assists with and presents special programs to the community.
6. Communicates professionally in person, on the telephone, or via computer to conduct library business as necessary.
7. Responsible for opening and/or closing the library during regular work shifts, often as the only employee.
8. Maintains periodical collection and processing historic materials in vertical files. Clips materials to add to vertical files and creates catalog cards using a typewriter for finding aids.
9. Operates and troubleshoots office equipment including, but not limited to computers, photocopiers, scanners, facsimile machines, televisions and VCR, typewriter and microfilm/fiche readers. Maintains supplies for photocopiers and printers.
10. Assists with collection maintenance such as yearbook purchases, weeding, mending books, and suggesting materials for purchase along with day-to-day upkeep of materials.
11. Other:
* Performs related duties as required to meet the needs of the City.
* Takes proper safety precautions, anticipates unsafe circumstances, and acts accordingly to prevent accidents. Responsible for the safety of self, others, materials, and equipment. Uses all required safety equipment.
* Responsible for knowing and complying with all city and department policies; participating in professional trainings and development; and adhering to attendance and workplace attire policies.

Generally, duties are listed from most to least critical or time consuming.

The city of Boulder is committed to hiring employees who provide excellent customer service. Our employees act with a high level of integrity, and take responsibility for their words and actions.

City of Boulder employees strive to respect and appreciate each individual's differences, and to work effectively with all people and their diverse backgrounds. We support candid and honest interactions, which respect other points of view, and are sensitive to communication differences. We achieve organizational goals through inclusive problem solving, planning, and decision-making. Community partnerships are included in this effort.

Skills / Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree and at least two years of library experience or experience in historical reference/research services; or an equivalent amount of experience and/or education in a historical reference/research environment. Minimum of two years of customer service experience. Experienced using personal computers, keyboarding, photograph scanning, and data entry for digitized collections. Skilled at organizing and maintaining digitized collections using content management systems. Technical writing skills that demonstrate the ability to write concisely and effectively for the Web. Ability to keep track of and work simultaneously on multiple projects while interacting with the public. Ability to recall and utilize a wide variety of specialized reference resources in order to meet the specific needs of each patron. Demonstrated interest, desire, and ability to communicate courteously and effectively with and provide services to others both in person and by telephone while maintaining confidentiality between staff and patrons when necessary. Willingness to take direction and learn a variety of tasks. Ability to work independently in a quiet environment under minimal supervision, at times by oneself. Willingness and flexibility to work a schedule that includes weekends and evenings.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in History or a related field. Knowledge of specialized collections and information such as Boulder county history and geography and other local archives and organizations to assist in search of materials, collections or other databases that meet the user's needs. Ability to excel both independently and as a team member on a variety of simultaneous projects in an evolving, dynamic, collaborative environment. Demonstrated experience with digital media technology and providing access to digitized audio and video. Knowledge of MARC and familiarity with national standards for cataloging archival materials. Familiarity with staff cataloging and public access modules of integrated library systems such as Innovative Interfaces Inc. software.