Library Technician

About the role

The Gaston County Public Library operates ten facilities including the Main Library in Gastonia and branches: Belmont, Builders & Creators @ Bessemer City, Cherryville, Dallas, Ferguson Branch (Erwin Center), Mt. Holly, Stanley, TECH@Lowell and Union Road. The library delivers services via three program areas:

• Administrative & Technical Services – Acquires, catalogs, processes, and distributes library materials for/to all Gaston County library service outlets. Staff provides technical support for the library’s automation system and advisory and resource assistance to public service staff. Administration manages the Library budget, personnel, and day-to-day library business operations, determines system-wide library service direction, and establishes service policies and procedures.
• Main Library Services – Provides direct assistance to the public in-house, by telephone, FAX, e-mail, and the Library’s website via two service points: Adult Services (Circulation and Reference) and Children's Services. Responsibilities include registering borrowers, processing loans and returns, answering reference and information requests, planning and conducting library activity programs, and assisting in-house users with library materials and equipment.
• Branch Library Services – Facilitate the delivery of library materials and services to citizens throughout the County. Staff provide direct assistance to library users: registering borrowers, processing loans and returns, answering reference and information requests, planning and conducting library activity programs, and assisting in-house users with library materials and equipment.

Responsibilities

The duties listed below are essential for this position:

• Provides excellent customer service to create an environment that leads to positive user experiences and that is welcoming and inclusive to all.
• Provides patron assistance in all aspects of library use including readers’ advisory, material check out, library card registration, and information assistance.
• Handles monies as needed for fees and other services.
• Assists patrons in bridging the digital divide by providing help with job searching, Internet searching, online database use, and accessing the Library’s electronic collection.
• Provides technical assistance and instructs patrons in the use of Makerspace tools, technology, and software.
• Plans and implements in-house and outreach library programs and activities for all age groups, often with a specific focus on STEAM activities.
• Makes recommendations for the purchase of library materials; weeds collection as needed.
• Promotes branch and system services in-house and in the community via exhibits & displays.
• Serves on Library and/or County teams/committees as elected or appointed.
• Assists other locations as needed. Assumes responsibility for branch facility and services in supervisor’s absence.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalency.
• At least two (2) years of experience in a service-related environment, preferably in a library setting.
• Technologically proficient and experienced in the use of Makerspace technology, Microsoft Office applications, social media, and database resources.
• Ability to receive instructions and communicate with the public.
• Commitment to working with diverse populations and creating a welcoming environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Strong computer skills.
• Ability to work a flexible work schedule from 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Monday through Friday, and between 10:00 AM–2:00 PM on alternate Saturdays.
• Physical ability to bend, stoop, push and pull loaded carts weighing 25–50 lbs, lift and maneuver crates/boxes/materials weighing 25–50 lbs, and sit and stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to operate office and computer equipment.

Pay

The anticipated hiring range for this position is $16.88 – $20.04 per hour.

Schedule

• Monday through Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (flexible schedule)
• Alternate Saturdays: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Benefits

• Full-Time employees are eligible for:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Retirement Savings Plans (Pension and 401K with 5% county contribution annually)
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Discounted YMCA Membership
• Part-Time employees are eligible for:
  • Pro-Rated Sick and Annual Leave
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Local Government Retirement Plan
  • Employee Assistance Program
• Half-Time employees are not eligible for benefits.

For more details, view the Employee Benefits Guide.