Position Overview:

Under the direction of the Technical Services Manager or delegate, the Special Library Assistant I will perform clerical and functional duties in Technical Services, including acquisitions, receiving, database searching, copy cataloging, record verification and correction, database maintenance, and material processing for all types and formats of materials.

Reports to:

Technical Services Manager or delegate

Under immediate supervision and in accordance with standard policy and practices, performs any or all of the following:

• Performs activities relating to acquisitions, receiving, copy-cataloging, and processing of materials in all formats (including print, non-print, continuing resources, and electronic formats) using the Integrated Library System (ILS).
• Creates, edits, and updates purchase orders using the. Sends orders and cancellation notices to vendors. Creates standard acquisition reports.
• Breaks down pallets of materials and organizes cartons. Physically and electronically receive all formats of library materials using the ILS. Verifies invoices/packing lists and reports claims to the supervisor for missing and damaged materials according to BPL guidelines. Delivers materials to appropriate areas.
• Searches internal and external databases to obtain, load, and verify bibliographic records for materials in all formats. Eliminates duplicate records when found.
• Under supervision, edits bibliographic information and modifies call numbers according to BPL guidelines.
• Under supervision, creates brief descriptive bibliographic records for review, subject analysis, and/or classification by Catalogers or Digital Librarians.
• Creates, verifies, updates, and deletes item and copy records for new and existing materials using the ILS.
• Physically prepares materials by performing such tasks as printing and applying spine and barcode labels, jacketing, stamping, security stripping, etc.
• Sorts, packages, and delivers materials to Central Library locations. As directed, retrieves material to be processed from Central Library locations.  Maintains shelving order within the department.
• As assigned, reviews fully processed materials received from vendors and modifies records and items as required using the ILS.
• Handles and processes weeded and gift materials.
• Under direction, communicates with vendors to check on the status of orders.
• Performs general clerical activities, including maintaining statistics, compiling reports, and managing paper or electronic files.
• Performs all duties normally required in the lower level of the pay grade.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Education - High school graduate or equivalent. Additional pertinent education is desirable.
• Experience - Six (6) months of experience in contemporary Technical Services, including searching for library records in an online environment, is preferred. Demonstrated ability to identify inaccurate data in bibliographic records is required. Working knowledge of current OCLC software is preferred.
• Ability to carry out detailed procedures with accuracy.
• Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines following the Library's established system of processing priorities.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrates initiative when performing job duties.
• Communicates effectively and presents ideas clearly.
• Proficiency in basic use of a PC at the level necessary to successfully complete the tasks of the job.
• Ability to move and lift 50 lbs. on a daily basis, operate a pallet jack, and use a 2- wheel dolly may be required.
•  Ability to work in a variety of foreign languages may be preferred.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.
• CORI - Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information check with the City of Boston.

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: AFSCME/LA-4 

Hours per week: 35