Librarian II – Reference

Job Description

Librarian II – Reference (535A)

Education and Experience

Possession of a Masters Degree in Library/Information Science from an American Library Association accredited library school, plus the equivalent of two (2) years of recent increasingly responsible professional library experience performing duties similar to a Librarian I for the Santa Clara City. Experience providing reference service is required. Experience in supervising the work of others and/or significant experience as a project or program lead is desirable.

License

Possession of an appropriate, valid California driver's license is required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is the full journey level class within the professional Librarian series. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed, and are frequently filled by advancement from the Librarian I class, or when filled through recruitment, require prior professional library experience. The appointing authority will approve appointment or promotion based on the employee's demonstrated ability to perform the full range of duties for the class and meet the qualification standards for the class, including those that require knowledge of public library policies and procedures. Employees at this level require only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and can independently and competently perform all operating procedures and functions of the work unit.

Typical Duties

Under general supervision: performs professional librarian duties; provides bibliographic instruction to library patrons; facilitates access to library materials using a variety of print and electronic resources; performs manual and computerized bibliographic searches; provides assistance to library patrons of all ages in location and use of library materials, resources, and facilities; provides reader's advisory services; answers reference questions at all levels of complexity; evaluates and selects library materials; serves as a member of library teams and on task forces; attends related training, workshops, and conferences and participates in professional development activities; develops and provides subject expertise in accessing library materials and special collections; analyzes library collections and assists in their development, maintenance, and preservation; participates in researching and drafting of reference/information service policies and procedures; participates in community, interagency, or local library system committees and meetings; gathers data and prepares reports or special studies on library policies, procedures, or other assigned topics; administers or carries out the terms of grants and/or other special projects; directs professional, volunteer, paraprofessional, or page staff; plans and implements adult programs; is responsible for selection, deselection, and evaluation of library materials; acts as lead librarian for a library program, facility, or branch in the absence of senior staff; and performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of: public library principles and practices; Dewey Decimal classification; Library of Congress Subject Headings; computerized bibliographic databases; online bibliographic searching techniques, including the Internet and World Wide Web; principles of intellectual freedom; reference interviewing techniques; collection development principles and techniques; principles and practices of supervision, training, and scheduling; budgeting principles; and policies, procedures, and functions of the library system. Ability to: apply library procedures and policies; work effectively, either independently or as part of a team; organize work assignments; recognize and establish job priorities; ; use sound judgment; work comfortably with current stand computer operating system(s); use computers and computer applications effectively; communicate complex data, both orally and in writing; work productively as a team member and on task forces; establish and maintain good working relationships with others contacted in the course of work; plan, organize, and carry out special assignments; be cross trained and work occasionally in other library program areas; and assign, train, supervise, and evaluate paraprofessional and page staff.

Supervision Received

Works under the general supervision of the Library Program Coordinator, Library Division Manager, or other supervisor as assigned.

Supervision Exercised

May supervise paraprofessional staff, pages, or volunteers. May act as lead librarian in the absence of senior staff.

Other Requirements

Performs physical tasks, such as lifting bending, stooping, reaching, carrying, and walking up and down stairs. Must be able to lift and carry library materials weighing up to 10 lbs. Must be able to perform all the essential functions of the job assignment.

Special Conditions

May be required to work evenings and weekends.

Approved, August 1999