Librarian Cataloger

The Pease Public Library in Plymouth, NH is seeking a Librarian Cataloger with excellent communication skills. Applicants must be able to demonstrate flexibility, good judgement and good humor under varying circumstances. The ability to multi-task and provide quality customer service is essential. Must be a community-oriented, hands-on team player. Some Saturday and evening hours are required.

Position Purpose:

Performs professional library and cataloging duties and provides service and assistance to patrons at the circulation desk. Performs all other related duties as required.

Essential Functions:

• Responsible for cataloging which includes creating records in the library database for each item the library acquires. This includes books, DVDs, audiobooks, magazines, and other items such as puzzles.
• MARC records are created using a specific system and requires knowledge of bibliographic standards for metadata as well as Dewey Decimal Classification.
• Physically processes items being added to and withdrawn from the library collection.
• Maintains consistency in the catalog classification and processing of library materials.
• Maintains statistics on the collection inventory and technical services activity.
• Purchases all adult fiction, adult audiobooks and large print fiction and nonfiction.
• Deselects and discards materials which involves evaluating the existing collection to determine materials that are damaged, outdated, not being used, or otherwise need to be removed from the collection.
• Registers patrons for the use of the various library services, including library cards, study rooms, museum passes, book groups and library programs.
• Makes library special collections available to a wide variety of users across formats.
• Assists patrons in using the library’s public computers and the software available on them including Microsoft Office applications, Internet browsers, printers, and scanners.
• Answers in-depth, complex reference questions in person, by phone and using email.  Helps patrons locate materials by placing holds, initiating inter-library requests, and processing purchase requests.
• Creates and implements adult programming and the marketing materials for adult programming.
• Performs similar or related work as required, directed or as situation dictates.

Recommended Minimum Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience:

Master’s Degree in Library Science preferred. Minimum of one-year library cataloging experience and three years in a public library setting; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill:

Knowledge: Knowledge of the principles and practices of professional library work; and working knowledge of computerization and appropriate library applications. Knowledge of cataloging rules and procedures. Knowledge of the Dewey Decimal Classification system. Demonstrated commitment to the mission and philosophy of public library service. The ability to maintain effective working relationships with staff members, Trustees, community groups, and other libraries.

Ability: Ability to work with library customers and staff in a friendly, efficient manner.  Ability to listen and communicate effectively. Ability to use computerized library systems and related equipment. Ability to master current and emerging technologies in cataloging.  Ability to interpret and follow policies and procedures and to operate standard office equipment. 

Skill: Excellent customer service skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills.  Proficient computer skills; interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

Supervision:

Supervision Scope: This position performs various duties requiring a thorough knowledge of departmental operations and the ability to complete assigned tasks according to established procedures and protocol.

Supervision Received: Work is performed under the general direction of the Library Director and Assistant Library Director.

Supervision Given: None, excepting volunteers and/or work-study students.

Job Environment:

• Work is performed under typical office and library conditions; the noise level is moderately noisy. 
• Operates computer, telephone, copier, and other standard office equipment.
• Employee has frequent contact with the general public, patrons, libraries, and community groups. Contacts are in person, via email or by telephone and involve an information exchange dialogue.
• Errors could result in delays or loss of library services, and/or poor public relations.

Physical Requirements:

Regularly required to walk, bend, reach, stand, sit, talk, and hear; operate objects, tools, or controls; pick up paper, files, and other common office objects. Ability to view computer screens and work with details for extended periods of time.  May move objects weighing up to 30 pounds. Must be able to communicate. Vision and hearing at or correctable to normal ranges.  

Benefits: Comprehensive health and dental insurance. We are part of the NH State Retirement System.

Hours: This is a full-time, 40 hour per week position. Some Saturday and evening hours are required.