Library Associate III-Business Specialilst

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Branch Manager, the Library Associate III-Business Specialist delivers a full range of effective and innovative research, information, materials, and services to prospective and established business owners and nonprofits. Develops and enhances business and nonprofit related services in all library branches while consistently delivering caring, non-judgmental customer service. Works cooperatively and collaboratively with branch staff, Library administration, and community partners to develop and deliver a full range of diverse and innovative business and non-profit related programs, services, and outreach initiatives.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Consults with aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, and nonprofits around their business and nonprofit goals, connecting them to needed resources, and information.
• Responds to patron inquiries regarding business and nonprofit information, including those with diverse backgrounds and specialized needs.

• Works collaboratively with the Branch Manager and Library Administration to develop, coordinate, facilitate, or lead business and/or nonprofit related workshops, programs, and trainings at all library branches.
• Prepares and delivers presentations on business and non-profit resources and services to the community and partnering organizations.
• Develops and delivers training on business and non-profit resources and topics to public services staff system-wide.
• Attends meetings of local chambers, business and nonprofit serving organizations, and networking events.
• Provides information services, including readers advisory, reference, and technology assistance to patrons in person, via phone, email, online, etc.

• Conducts research using an array of resources, including the librarys databases and digital services.
• Provides technology instruction to the public in a variety of areas, including library software and hardware, personal device assistance, digital media and downloadables, and internet and computer usage.

• Assists in development and distribution of marketing materials.
• Contributes business and non-profit related resources and reviews through email marketing, social media platforms, and the librarys website.
• Monitors, maintains, and evaluates business collection providing feedback and making recommendations to the Branch Manager and Collections Development Manager.
• Works with the Branch Manager and Library Administration to develop and implement department goals within overall system goals.

• May participate in statewide initiatives, training, and networking.
• Maintains, measures, assesses and reports accurate service statistics and effectiveness of services.
• Other duties as assigned.

JOB STANDARDS:

• Promotes and maintains a high standard of customer service, both internal and external.
• Demonstrates ability to work with a diverse community.
• Models positive attitude toward library technology and change.
• Maintains courteous, friendly, and constructive relationships with patrons and staff.
• Promotes and advocates a positive library image in the community.
• Maintains professional growth and awareness through training, self-directed learning and other means to stay abreast of current and emerging trends in the community and in libraries.
• Performs job in keeping with the adopted policies, procedures, and values of the Cecil County Public Library.

CRITICAL SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

• Baccalaureate Degree from an accredited college.

• Within two years of appointment, each Library Associate shall have successfully completed Library Associates in-service training or nine credit hours of formal academic course work in library science. Such training may have been received prior to the date of appointment. Training provided by CCPL off-site in Maryland.
• Ability to regularly travel within Cecil County to all branches and potentially other library branches across the state of Maryland.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.

• Excellent PC skills and experience with software packages.
• Knowledge of Windows operating system, internet resources and other technologies and how to use them effectively.
• Knowledge of a variety of types of electronic hardware devices for computing, listening, viewing, gaming and new technologies.
• Willingness and ability to acquire knowledge of library computer systems and applications.
• Ability to analyze and perform and or manage a wide variety of library projects.

• Knowledge of books, authors, current events.
• Ability to reach, bend and lift up to 35 lbs.
• Ability to push/pull rolling book carts.

EQUIPMENT:

Personal computer, laptop, printers, scanners, photocopier, fax, AV projection equipment, laminator, book trucks, security system, cash register.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Works in normal heat and light conditions with some exposure to seasonal draft conditions. Some eye fatigue from working at computer terminals; physical fatigue from working at counter height (39") work surface and from repetitive lifting of books, and pushing carts. Some stress from constant public contact.

FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT STATUS: Non-Exempt

SCHEDULE:

Part-time 25 hours per week. Regular schedule requires day, evening, and weekend hours. Requires flexibility to schedule appointments and travel throughout the county.

NOTE: Certain conditions, e.g. economic constraints or staffing patterns, may necessitate change in job description.

EOE Revised 3.2025