Library Patron Services Lead (bookmobile)

Library Patron Services Lead

This position performs paraprofessional and technical public library tasks under the direction of the Department Manager or leadership team. The position requires some knowledge of professional practice and independent judgment in its application, as well as the application of prescribed procedures and methods. The position will also require performance of routine, general library tasks. The employee provides services to the library's diverse patron population and assists with materials traffic management on the library's bookmobile. As the lead, this person will be responsible for opening/closing the bookmobile at the beginning/end of a shift; handling emergencies per policy and procedure and oversee bookmobile operations including circulation and customer service; make decisions for the library/patrons in conjunction with policy and the Manager. Scheduled hours will include nights and weekends.

Work on the Bookmobile, which includes, but is not limited to the following activities:

• Identify and retrieve collection and account information needed by patrons
• Assist patrons with access to the library's collections
• Create new patron accounts
• Coordinate patron registration in the library computer system, maintain computer records for patrons, overdue items, fees, loss of materials, including working with the Library's Collection Agency, suspension of borrowing privileges and supervision of the Holds
• Assist with any patron issues, disputes, complaints and inquiries in a timely manner
• Assist with troubleshooting technology issues such as printers, copiers, computers, etc.
• Assist with training for those performing patron services bookmobile duties
• Materials traffic management
• Assist with scheduling of staff and bookmobile coverage
• Assist Patron Services Manager in planning, organizing and management of the work of the bookmobile as well as other operational tasks
• Bookmobile opening and closing duties as assigned and act as employee in charge when necessary
• Serve as point person for staff and patrons in the absence of Department Manager
• Serve as lead trainer to volunteers as directed by management
• Assist in identifying library's volunteer needs
• Able to clearly communicate and operationalize library policy to staff and patrons

Other responsibilities:

• Assist patrons of all ages in the use of all library services
• Provide general patron and circulation services
• Assist the Patron Services Manager with the upkeep and maintenance schedules of the library's bookmobile
• Attend and participate in library staff meetings and training sessions
• Attend workshops and continuing education programs

Required knowledge and skills:

• Knowledge of professionally curated print, digital, and online resources
• Ability to conduct reference interviews to determine patrons' information needs
• Familiarity with adult fiction and non-fiction books and resources and popular culture references
• Ability to use and explain standard office software and web browsers
• Familiarity with computers, printers and copiers, and personal mobile devices (e.g., e-readers, tablets, smart phones)
• Patience, flexibility and curiosity
• Ability to work with minimal supervision
• Ability to represent the library to the public

Essential functions & physical abilities:

• Ability to sit, bend, stoop, reach, stand, push, pull as required
• Physical agility, strength and dexterity necessary for handling library materials up to 35 pounds.
• Dexterity to use basic technology equipment, including a keyboard, mouse, and touchpad
• Interpersonal skills and cognitive flexibility to interface with a variety of internal and external customers in diverse, sometimes high-stress, situations
• Executive functioning skills appropriate for a busy, fast-paced environment

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Qualifications:

• Graduation from high school or acceptable equivalent is required.
• Graduation from an accredited two-year or four-year college is preferred.
• Basic computer skills are required.
• 2 – 5 years public library experience is preferred.
• Valid and clean Iowa Drivers License

Working conditions:

• Works in an office environment
• Works outside at times and may be exposed to varying weather year round
• Hours may flex upon demand of workload, but evenings and weekends are required
• The Marion Public Library is a busy, customer focused library with a high amount of use. Patrons have high expectations regarding the quality and efficiency of library service.
• Regularly works with and has access to patron records that are confidential according to the Code of Iowa

Required background checks:

• Sex Offender Registry
• Drug Screening
• Pre-Employment Physical
• Driving Record