Library Technical Assistant Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Description

The McHenry Public Library District is seeking an on-site Cataloging Associate. As a member of the Technical Services department, this individual will be responsible for creating and modifying item records; cataloging and classifying materials; creating labels for and processing library materials; assisting with copy cataloging; updating and modifying bibliographic records and acquisitions; and receiving and maintaining library materials. The salary for this position ranges between $19.09 and $19.57 per hour, depending on qualifications. 

Schedule: During the initial 4-week training period, Monday-through-Friday hours are fixed. Following training, schedule flexibility may be arranged with prior notice, subject to departmental and operational requirements. 

Benefits: Include vacation, sick time, personal time, IMRF (Pension Plan), and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Summary:

Under the supervision of the Technical Services Manager, this position is responsible for creating item records, cataloging and classifying materials with appropriate call numbers and subject headings, and creating labels for and processing the library's materials. Assists with acquisitions, serials management, and maintenance of library materials. Imports and updates the bibliographic records in the library's integrated library system (ILS) software.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:

• Assigns call numbers and adds copies to the catalog.
• Maintains the accuracy of the catalog database by modifying records based on local cataloging standards.
• Complete processing of materials per quality and condition standards.
• Performs routine copy cataloging and modification of database records according to national and local standards.
• Participates in database cleanup, reclassification, and re-packaging projects.
• Adapts to evolving cataloging standards, workflows, and technologies.
• Collaborates with Technical Services staff and provides responsive customer service support to library staff, communicates with selectors on materials classification, and updates accordingly.
• Responsible for acquisition functions when required.
• Responsible for serials management when required.
• May repair damaged materials as needed/required
• May assist in staff training.
• Effectively uses library technology and equipment related to department functions and needs.
• Serves on library committees.
• Participates in professional development and networking activities both in person and online. 
• Maintain statistics on technical services activity and provide periodic reports.
• Performs other related work of a similar nature or level.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Qualifications

• LTA certificate from an accredited college, MLS (MLIS) degree from an ALA-accredited institution with cataloging emphasis (preferred but not required), or equivalent work experience.
• Current integrated library systems experience is a plus.
• Functional knowledge of public library organizations and collections, like OCLC, DDC, MARC, Dewey, and RDA.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient technology skills including: Microsoft Windows and Office applications, Google Suite applications, Internet, and the ability to adapt to changing technology.
• Ability to follow detailed and multiple-step instructions with precision.
• Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work assignments independently or as a team.
• Ability to complete detailed work accurately, efficiently, and on time with minimal supervision and with strong attention to detail and ability to adapt to shifting priorities.
• Bilingual in, or reading fluency in Spanish or Polish, desirable. 

Working Conditions 

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, and see.  
• The employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach with hands and arms, get down on floors, climb stools, and perform other physical tasks.
• Repeated movements with the wrists, hands, and/or fingers while using a keyboard or while manipulating library materials.
• Ability to perform repetitive hand motions for extended periods.
• Clarity of vision at approximately 20 inches or less (i.e., working with small objects or reading small print), including the use of computers.
• Work at the computer for extended periods (50% of the time).
• Employee may be exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time of work, including possible extreme hot and cold weather.
• Noise level is generally similar to an office environment, but may be loud at times.
• The employee will occasionally lift, push, or move (library material and/or equipment) up to 35 pounds and push or pull book carts loaded with material weighing up to 150 pounds.
• Due to safety precautions, will be required to wear close-toed shoes.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

 McHenry Public Library District participates in E-Verify. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.