Library Specialist - PT (Flex)

This position is a generalist, cross-trained, customer-focused public service role that provides service at the library's three primary public service points: Circulation, Information, and Youth. Assists patrons with circulation transactions, reference and information requests, readers' advisory, technology assistance, and library resources. Supports programming, outreach, and daily library operations while maintaining proficiency across all public-facing service areas. Advanced, specialized, supervisory, collection development, and professional librarian functions remain the responsibility of designated staff.

• Provides service at Circulation, Information, and Youth service points.
• Maintains working knowledge of services, procedures, resources, and technologies necessary to provide effective public service coverage throughout the library.
• Assists patrons with circulation transactions, account inquiries, library resources, readers' advisory, and basic reference questions.
• Assists patrons with library technology, digital resources, and online services.
• Responds to patron questions regarding library services, policies, procedures, programs, and resources.
• Refers advanced, specialized, or complex inquiries to appropriate staff.
• Supports service needs across multiple library functions and service points.

• Assists with the planning, preparation, promotion, and delivery of programs and events for all.
• Participates in outreach activities and community engagement efforts at library and off-site locations.
• Promotes library services, collections, programs, and resources.
• Assists with event setup, materials preparation, and participant support.
• Supports literacy initiatives, summer reading programs, and community engagement efforts.

• Shelves, organizes, and maintains library materials and collections.
• Assists with collection maintenance, inventories, and other operational activities.
• Assists with displays and promotional materials.
• Maintains clean, safe, orderly, and welcoming public service areas.
• Performs routine clerical, administrative, and operational duties.
• Utilizes library systems, software applications, and equipment necessary to perform assigned responsibilities.

• Assists with special projects and seasonal initiatives.
• Assists with volunteer activities and special events.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.Associate degree preferred.
• One (1) year of library, customer service, educational, or related experience preferred; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience using library-related technologies, resources, computers, digital resources, and common office software required.
• Experience providing customer service in a public library environment preferred.
• Experience working at a circulation desk, information/reference desk, youth services desk, or similar public service environment preferred. Cross-training or experience supporting multiple library service areas is desirable.
• Experience working with children, teens, and the public preferred.

• Must successfully pass a criminal background investigation.
• Valid driver's license preferred.
• Bilingual proficiency preferred.

• Public library operations, services, and customer service principles.
• Basic circulation, reference, readers' advisory, and youth services practices.
• Library technologies, integrated library systems, catalogs, databases, and digital resources.
• Materials, programs, and services appropriate for children, teens, and adults.
• Library policies, procedures, and practices.

• Providing excellent customer service to all patrons.
• Communicating effectively both orally and in writing.
• Using computers, office software, library technologies, and digital resources.
• Conducting basic reference interviews and providing readers' advisory services.
• Assisting patrons with technology, online resources, and electronic devices.
• Prioritizing multiple tasks and adapting to changing service demands.
• Working collaboratively as part of a team.

• Effectively provide service at Circulation, Information, and Youth Services desks.
• Learn and apply procedures, resources, and technologies across library service functions.
• Transition between service assignments based on operational needs.
• Assist patrons with varying information, technology, and service needs.
• Learn library policies, procedures, and technologies and apply them consistently.
• Exercise sound judgment, tact, and professionalism when interacting with patrons and staff.
• Work independently while supporting a collaborative, cross-trained service model.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with patrons, coworkers, volunteers, community partners, and the general public.
• Adapt to changing priorities and service needs in a public library environment.

This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as moderate. Tasks typically involve some combination of stooping, kneeling, crouching, climbing step stools, and crawling. May involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (20 - 30 pounds). Requires prolonged standing, frequent handling of library materials, and the ability to push and pull fully loaded book carts weighing up to 300 pounds. Assignments may require a rotating schedule which may include working evenings and weekends.

Work is performed in a public library environment and occasionally at off-site community locations. Duties may involve travel to outreach events, community programs, meetings, and partner organizations. Position may require transporting program materials and setting up equipment at off-site locations. 

The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Culpeper County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

General Sign-off: The employee is expected to adhere to all County policies and to act as a role model in adhering to those policies.