City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Librarian III

Under nominal direction, this position manages or supervises a library work unit or major function, program, or activity.

1. Explains policies and procedures to public, staff, and public libraries. Interprets State and Federal library laws and rules to citizen advocacy groups and governing bodies.
2. Delivers and ensures excellent internal and external customer service.
3. Investigates and resolves complaints involving staff and public. Coaches, mentors, and provides feedback to staff.
4. Compiles bibliographies, reference guides, newsletter articles, statistics, written reports, and other materials for library customers. Processes new and incoming books and assesses collections on a regular basis.
5. Conducts meetings, training sessions, and public educational programs. Works or travels to several locations and serves on library-wide committees and task forces.
6. Engages in short- and long-range planning for the work unit or for public libraries.
7. Provides direct reference service to the public and staff via in-person, telephone, email, and chat.
8. Creates, develops, and implements public programs. Measures impact of public programs.
9. Manages outreach and promotion for library system or branch.
10. Trains and consults with library staff on collection development, public library management, specialized services to library users, and utilization of electronic resources. Develops work schedules and monitors time sheets and payroll for staff.

Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.

• Knowledge of public library issues and trends.
• Knowledge of books, electronic databases, internet resources, bibliographic sources, reference materials, circulation software, and library automation systems.
• Knowledge of reference tools and procedures.
• Knowledge of equity, diversity, and inclusion principles and practices in libraries.
• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws.
• Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in using computers and related software, including Microsoft Office products.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in planning and organizing.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Ability to plan and present effective programs.
• Ability to perform professional cataloging, collection development, and reference work.
• Ability to facilitate discussions and resolve issues.
• Ability to stay current on library profession and services by attending classes and seminars.
• Ability to use library automation and the internet.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees and the public.
• Ability to provide high-level customer service.
• Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.

Graduation with a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA accredited college or university, plus three (3) years as a professional librarian, including one (1) year of experience in a lead or supervisory capacity. 

Valid Texas Class C Driver License.

• Must be able to stoop, bend, walk, and reach to heights of up to six (6) feet.
• Must be able to pull or lift up to fifty (50) pounds.
• Must be able to push loaded book cart/truck weighing up to three hundred (300) pounds.
• Must have manual dexterity to operate computer keyboard.