INFORMATION SERVICES SPECIALIST

INFORMATION SERVICES SPECIALIST

City of Newport News

• 3.

7 Newport News, VA Job Details 1 day ago Qualifications Report writing Library management software Writing skills Basic math Research Databases Schedule management Decision making Full Job Description

JOB DESCRIPTION INFORMATION SERVICES SPECIALIST

(BRANCHES )

LIBRARIES & INFORMATION SERVICES

Human Resources

NEWPORT NEWS, VA

Department

GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Under general supervision, this position assists library patrons with researching or locating routine to difficult reference information and responds to inquires; develops and delivers library programs; assists patrons in the makerspace and digital media lab; develops reading lists; creates bibliographies; assists patrons using the public computers, online library catalog, electronic resources, and equipment. Reports to a Library Manager or Senior Librarian.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Assists in the planning, development and delivery of programming such as adult and youth programs, technology classes, maker space workshops, discussion groups; creates book displays, exhibits, basic handouts and flyers; assists with tours and may represent the Library and its services to community organizations. Assists library patrons with routine to difficult specialized library services to include inquires in person, by phone or other digital means including youth services, reference services, and local/history/genealogical services; conducts reference interviews and research to determine the most efficient method of locating reference information; creates bibliographies, provides readers' advisory service and creates reading lists; retrieves hard-to-find library or resource materials. Instructs and assists patrons with technology and equipment to include but not limited to public computers, makerspace, digital media lab, robotics and coding, online library catalog, and digital resources. Interprets, explains and applies library policy and procedures to respond to customer concerns. Uses subject area collection profiles of print and non-print materials in order to evaluate currency, accuracy and condition of items in the library's collection; identifies weaknesses in the library's collection and makes recommendations for the purchase of materials to ensure the currency and completeness with the subject areas of the collection. Provides information to customers about their circulation records and requests materials to meet borrowing needs; updates patron records; checks materials in and out, processes reserves; reconciles cash receipts and prepares cash deposits. Performs other duties as assigned. PC# 33902; 33903; 38832 Page 1 of 3

Revised:

9/1/2022 PERFORMANCE

STANDARD

Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community and the organization through work behaviors demonstrating the City's Values. Employees are also expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE

 Library/Office Administration

• Some knowledge of varied print and digital reference resources.

Knowledge of a broad range of authors, titles and subjects to assist patrons with varied technical, cultural, intellectual and informational needs. Knowledge and understanding of Dewey Decimal System, integrated library system (ILS) software, and the importance of following detailed library cataloging procedures, standards and rules.  Customer Service

• Considerable knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer service. This includes setting and meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of patron satisfaction.  Technology
• Knowledge of current trends and practices related to the use of technology in a public library.

Knowledge of the Internet, databases, online library catalog and software usage to assist patrons.

REQUIRED SKILLS

 Interpersonal Relationships

• Develops and maintains cooperative and professional relationships with Library patrons, employees, and all levels of management to include representatives from other departments and organizations.  Time Management
• Plans and organizes daily work routine. Estimates expected time of completion of elements of work and establishes a personal schedule accordingly. Implements work activities in accordance with priorities and estimated schedules.  Judgement and Decision Making
• Evaluates the best method of research and then exercises appropriate judgement in establishing priorities and resolving routine matters.

Considers the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

REQUIRED ABILITIES

 Communication

• Ability to effectively communicate ideas and proposals verbally and in writing, to include the preparation of reports which include numerical information and statistics. Ability to listen and understand information and ideas being presented verbally and in writing. Ability to handle a variety of personal information in a confidential manner.  Mathematics
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations involving collection of fees and fines.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Arts or Sciences or a related field and 1-2 years related library experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. PC# 33902; 33903; 38832 Page 2 of 3

Revised:

9/1/2022 ADDITIONAL

REQUIREMENTS

An acceptable general background check to include a local and state criminal history check and an acceptable sex offender registry check.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

 Requires the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work.  Some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10 pounds).  Tasks may involve extended periods of time at keyboard or work station.

SENSORY REQUIREMENTS

 Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds and visual cues or signals.  Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.

ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES

Essential functions are regularly performed without exposure to adverse environmental conditions. PC# 33902; 33903; 38832 Page 3 of 3

Revised:

9/1/2022