Library Specialist - Reference

The Portage County Public Library is hiring a part-time (25 hrs / wk) Library Specialist to join their team!  This position is based out of the Stevens Point location, however some hours may be spent at the other branch locations.  This position focuses on the reference aspect.

What are the primary job duties?


Public and Patron Services (Performs a wide variety of customer service activities at the reference service desk)
 

• Assists library users (both adults and children) at a service desk. Performs reference desk procedures, such as direct and indirect reference, information, and reader’s advisory services to library users (conducts reference interviews via many different methods).
• Answers telephone, answers directional questions in person or by telephone, may answer questions regarding status of patron and circulation records, and refers library users to appropriate personnel as necessary.
• Independently and in coordination with other staff members plan, coordinate, and implement programming for patrons.
• Assists library users  in use of the Library's online catalog and other computer-based products (Libby, Badgernet, etc.) available both locally and remotely.
• May assist borrowers in selection and location of library materials. Refers library users with complex questions or complex readers’ advisory questions to appropriate personnel.
• Provides assistance, guidance, or instruction in the use of library resources; teaches the use of online public access catalog and other electronic resources; recommends the use of specific reference materials.
• Monitors public internet stations.  Provides assistance to individuals using public internet stations, public computers, and peripherals (printers, scanners, etc.); provides assistance with other equipment. Assists with questions regarding library-installed software, and, when able, with general questions related to webservices provided by other entities.
• Ability to maintain patron confidentiality (WI Statutes Chapter 43.30).
• Ability to plan and carry out library programs.
• May assist with library social media.

Interlibrary Loan
 

• Performs and/or assists with all steps of the interlibrary loan process: processing materials, requesting materials, etc.
• In response to library users requests: generate appropriate requests of our Interlibrary loan partners.
• Assists and/or performs processing of interlibrary loan materials (both electronic and physical) when received.
• Assists and/or performs the return of loaned interlibrary materials to the owning institutions.
• Assists patrons with any and all questions regarding the status of their interlibrary loan requests.

Clerical activities in support of the library
 

• Prepares booklists, brochures, flyers, and reports using appropriate computer software as assigned or needed.  With the guidance of the librarian, may develop and prepare booklists, copy for Web publication, and other publicity items for work unit.
• May handle the photocopying and duplication of materials prepared for library use.
• Helps with weeding (de-acquisition) of library materials under direction of librarian.
• May assist library customers with basic operation of library equipment; may add supplies to photocopier and other library-owned machines as needed.
• Maintains the appearance of the reference area and the library. Assists with and/or helps maintains the genealogy collection and materials. Assists with the maintenance of the genealogy index.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university (library science classes preferred),
• Two years general library experience preferred.
• Background in reference service in a library or comparable experience preferred.
• Fluency in a non-English language of the community (such as Hmong or Spanish) is preferred.
• Knowledge of computer software, including Windows Operating System, Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel.
• Or any combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Portage County offers a GREAT benefit package, which includes the following;
 

• Vacation - available on day one!
• Health insurance- your choice of two health plans- (Health Savings Account associated with a High Deductible Health Plan with a County contribution or a PPO Co-pay plan)
• Wellness incentive plan offered with health insurance enrollment! Earn up to $600 per year!
• Flexible spending account
• Dental insurance
• State of Wisconsin Retirement Plan - County contribution of 6.95%!
• Paid holidays
• Paid sick leave
• Life insurance- premium paid by the County (must work a minimum of 30 hrs/wk)
• Long term disability insurance- premium paid by the County (must work a minimum of 30 hrs/wk)
• EAP (Employee Assistance Plan) - paid by the County
• 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
• Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program

Portage County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Deadline to apply is 4:30 pm on Friday, March 7th, 2025

Salary : $600