The Reference Clerk performs a wide variety of technical and customer service library work and library programming to serve the patrons of the Coeur d’Alene Public Library and works in nearly every public service area of the library. Reference Clerks serve patrons at the Reference Desk to answer reference questions, provide technology assistance and provide direction. In addition, Reference Clerks work in one or more specialized fields of librarianship including programming, outreach, interlibrary loan, bookkeeping, or technical services. Duties may include locating and distributing materials, creating and implementing library programs, creating book displays, processing interlibrary loans, providing patron outreach or homebound services, processing invoices, working in circulation, etc. Generally, the Reference Clerk may be assigned to any number of technical, clerical or customer services duties in the library to assist professional library staff and patrons. The position reports to a Librarian and may serve as the person in charge on evenings and weekends. The job requires a high school diploma or GED with college level course work or an AA Degree in library science preferred and two years of previous library experience. The work is accomplished in an office/library environment.
(illustrative only and may vary by assignment)- Provides direct service to patrons by performing reader's advisory services and working in a specialty area such as:
- a. Interlibrary Loans – Maintains, locates and distributes materials that are borrowed or loaned through the Interlibrary Loan System;
- b. Outreach – Provide library services and programs to the public at offsite locations and community events.
- c. Bookkeeping – Processes invoices and daily deposits; handles petty cash; reconciles and balances accounts; orders and maintains inventory of supplies;
- d. Technical Services – Performs a wide variety of tasks associated with preparing materials for circulation, including but not limited to physically processing incoming orders and occasionally ordering library materials based on selections from librarians.
- e. Adult programming – Provide programs and lifelong learning opportunities for adults of all ages.
- Performs various patron services in utilizing electronic resources, locating materials, photocopying, checking materials in/out, assisting in technical services, etc.;
- Facilitates room scheduling and reservations;
- Assists library staff with programming, events and promotions;
- Processes and prepares reports from the automated system;
- Responds to reference questions and searches reference materials;
- Recommends book selections;
- Opens and closes the library on assigned days;
- Answers telephone and directs calls;
- Enters patron information into computerized system;
- Accepts customer concerns and works to resolve issues;
- Responds to management's, supervisor's, co-workers' and citizens' questions and comments in a courteous, thorough and timely manner;
- Performs time management and scheduling functions, meets deadlines, and sets project priorities;
- Maintains strict confidentiality of all matters;
- Adheres to the Idaho State Code requirement for patron privacy;
- Assists other department and City employees as needed or requested;
- Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies, procedures, and safety practices.
Secondary Duties and Responsibilities:- Serves as person in charge in the absence of other designated personnel;
- Performs the work of library staff as needed;
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- A High School Diploma or GED, supplemented with an AA Degree in Library Science is preferred; and
- Two (2) years experience working in a library setting; or
- An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities to successfully perform the essential functions of the position may be considered.
The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required for an individual to satisfactorily perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be successful in the position.
Knowledge of:- Standard public library procedures, including reference tools and methodology;
- Personal computers and associated software, integrated library systems and the internet;
- Customer service practices and techniques;
- Basic office functions including, but not limited to, keyboarding, filing, bookkeeping and related clerical functions.
Skill and Ability to:- Learn and operate the Library's automated systems;
- Accept and follow instructions, set priorities, handle details and multi-task;
- Use initiative, problem solving skills and judgment;
- Prioritize tasks, manage detail, meet deadlines, and work accurately.
- Keep records and compile reports;
- Use computer systems and various software programs;
- Listen and interpret patron requests;
- Display an attitude of cooperation and work harmoniously with City employees, library patrons and the general public;
- Apply the library's cash handling procedures;
- Proficiently operate computers, software programs, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or similar office software to create documents and other materials, maintain information, and generate reports;
- Use English and speak clearly for understanding;
- Maintain a professional demeanor at all times;
- Perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlines;
- Perform all duties in accordance with City policies and procedures with regard for personal safety and that of other employees and the public.
Physical Demands & Work Environment: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this classification. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.
While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds in a general office environment. Specific vision abilities required by this classification include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing abilities required by this classification includes those which permit the employee to communicate effectively in person and by telephone. While performing the duties of this classification, the employee works in a public building setting where the noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
