LIBRARY PROGRAM SPECIALIST 2

Code: 10934 Local Competitive

Official job specification

The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator. Source: the official specification page at NJ CSC.

Definition

Under limited supervision, in a local government agency, takes the lead in designing, developing, and implementing various library programs and activities; supports and assists patrons at public service desks; collaborates with library staff, volunteers and community partners to enhance library services and resources; applies sound judgment to address daily challenges and complex situations; does other related duties as required.

Examples of work

Independently performs more complex tasks and may take the lead by providing instruction and/or training to lower-level staff. Collaborates with professional librarian and library management to help set standards and establish goals for programs, events, and activities. Develops and implements various more complex programs to expand digital fluency, literacy and learning capabilities, and civic engagement of patrons. Hosts learning and enrichment activities that represent diverse ages, abilities, and interests. Designs educational activities, story boards, and online content through the utilization of audio, visual, web technologies including the latest emerging tools, and devices. Serves as liaison to community partners. Schedules and manages onsite partner programs that bring community experts to the library, thereby enhancing access to educational and enrichment opportunities including access to community offerings. Participates in community outreach opportunities by offering activities and programs at offsite locations such as schools, government agencies and nonprofit partners. Provides guidance and assistance to support staff and volunteers. Participates in the training of patrons and staff on the use of library resources. Resolves patron concerns within authority granted by the professional librarian or other supervisory official. Participates in library committees and teams. Provides basic reader advisory to patrons seeking aid in the selection of reading materials. Prepares reading lists and bibliographies. Answers reference questions. Conducts or prepares the content and arrangement of library materials for displays, exhibits and library programs. Prepares technical, financial, statistical, and other reports. Maintains essential records and files. Will be required to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.

License

Appointee will be required to possess a driver's license valid in the State of New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

Knowledge of the techniques used to gather data and analyze data. Knowledge of current trends in literacy and educational programming. Knowledge of community engagement and partnership-building techniques. Knowledge of digital tools, information systems, and research databases common to libraries. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to instruct others in the use of research methods and tools. Ability to take the lead over lower-level professional and nonprofessional staff. Ability to prepare informational materials. Ability to comprehend and interpret basic laws, rules, regulations, standards, and policies and apply them to specific situations. Ability to provide reader's advisory. Ability to conduct surveys and studies and prepare reports. Ability to prepare correspondence. Ability to maintain essential records and files. Ability to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units. Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication. Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Note

The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed. Applicants must meet one of the following or a combination of both experience and education. Thirty (30) semester hour credits are equal to one (1) year of relevant experience. Six (6) years of professional experience in planning, coordinating, and/or implementing programs and services in a library or educational setting. OR Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; and two (2) years of the above-mentioned professional experience. OR Possession of a Master of Digital Humanities or Digital Curation; and one (1) year of the above-mentioned professional experience. "Professional experience" refers to work that is creative, analytical, evaluative, and interpretive; requires a range and depth of specialized knowledge of the profession's principles, concepts, theories, and practices; and is performed with the authority to act according to one's own judgment and make accurate and informed decisions.