The McHenry Public Library District is seeking an onsite Cataloging Associate. This individual will support the Technical Services department by 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.

Schedule:

• During the initial 4-week training period, Monday through Friday hours are fixed. Once training is completed, you’ll have the flexibility to adjust your work hours with advance notice.

Benefits:

• Paid vacation, sick/personal time off, and retirement (IMRF) benefits.

The associate will create item records, catalog and classify materials with appropriate call numbers and subject headings, and create labels for and process 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 modifying of database records according to national and local standards.
• Maintains knowledge of professional cataloging standards, including monitoring and staying current with MARC, RDA, and local standards.
• Responsible for acquisition functions when required.
• Responsible for serials management when required.
• May repair damaged materials as needed/required.
• 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, as directed.
• Other duties may be assigned to meet department needs.

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.
• Possesses effective communication skills, proofreading skills, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks.
• Ability to take direction and accurately follow instructions.
• Proficient technology skills, including Microsoft Windows and Office applications, Google Suite applications, Internet, OCLC Connexion or OCLC Worldshare Record Manager, and the ability to adapt to changing technology, including but not limited to ILS software changes.
• Ability to work in front of a computer for the majority of the work day.
• Must meet the physical requirements of the position (able to lift, handle, sort, and shelve library material of various weights and sizes).
• Bilingual in English and Spanish or Polish preferred.

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 bend, stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms.
• Noise level is generally similar to an office environment but may be loud at times.
• Repeated movements with the wrists, hands, and/or fingers while using a keyboard.
• Clarity of vision at approximately 20 inches or less (i.e., working with small objects or reading small print), including the use of computers.
• The employee will occasionally lift, push, or move (library material and/or equipment) up to 35 pounds and push book trucks (carts) loaded with material weighing up to 150 pounds.

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.