Library Media Specialist Jobs in Maryland

JOB SUMMARY
Works under the direction of the principal and media specialist. Performs the daily routine operations of the media center including checking materials in and out, sending out overdue notices, shelving materials, preparation of instructional materials, monitoring student traffic, and checking student sign-in and passes. Works directly with individual students or in small groups to reinforce skills initially introduced by the library media specialist. Uses and troubleshoots technology and computerized information in a variety of settings.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensures that the organizational system of the media center is maintained by correctly and independently returning materials (both book and non-book) to the correct location and in proper shelf order.
• Assists teachers and students in researching, selecting, and locating appropriate print and non-print media for use in lessons and assignments. Assists with developing and printing out bibliographic lists as needed.
• Supports teachers and students in the proper use of online databases and other digital resources.
• Promotes the proper operation, handling, and care of library media center equipment.
• Assists in training and supervising student or parent volunteers in the daily operation of the library media center.
• Works with small groups of students to discuss and/or reinforce instructional outcomes and library media skills.
• Assists in maintaining and updating online bibliographic records. Locates and corrects errors in the PAC under the direction of the library media specialist.
• Assists in conducting automated collection inventory and in generating related statistical reports.
• Assists in preparation of forms, notices, letters and other correspondence.
• Manages the circulation desk.
• Runs and maintains statistical reports on usage.
• Acts as a key team member in arranging and designing the library media center displays/learning centers and related use of space.
• Assists in facilitating reading incentive programs.
• Works with the media specialist to maintain the physical appearance of the media center as a clean, orderly, and attractive environment.
• Runs, prepares and distributes overdue notices routinely and maintains related obligation lists/records.
• Participates in workshops and in-service training when appropriate.
• Performs circulation activities (receiving and processing new materials, check-in, check-out, and shelving materials).
• Performs other related duties as assigned within the same classification or lower.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education

• High School Diploma or Equivalency Certificate required.
• Other: To work in a Title I-funded school, 48 college credit hours or a passing score on a paraprofessional assessment issued by ETS or NES, required.

Experience

• Previous training and/or experience in a library media center environment preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics

• Aptitude for reference work, ability to use core reference materials (print and non-print), and a basic understanding of the Dewey Decimal System.
• Ability to assess needed tasks, take initiative to complete them, and work well independently.
• Ability to exercise considerable patience, courtesy, tact, and good judgment in dealing with students, teachers, administrators, fellow employees, and the general public.
• An interest in and an affinity for direct work with young people.
• Love of literature and books (desired).
• Ability to exercise considerable patience, courtesy, tact, and good judgement in working with students, teachers, administrators, fellow employees and parents.
• Ability to develop proficiency (with training and instruction) in the use of online library management systems.
• Willingness to learn and implement instructional methods, strategies, and techniques to assist teachers in the education of students.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively work and communicate with diverse populations.
• Demonstrated proficiency with business technology applications (e.g. Video/Web Conferencing, Microsoft Office Suite -Word, Excel, Outlook, and/or PowerPoint preferred).

Licenses and Certifications
Employee must retain active licenses, certifications, and enrollment as a condition of employment.

• To work in a Title I-funded school, a passing score on a paraprofessional assessment, in lieu of 48 college credit hours, issued by ETS or NES required.

Driving Requirements

• N/A

CAREER LADDER REQUIREMENTS

Qualification Requirements for Employment in Higher Grade as a New Hire or Transfer requires:

• Successful completion of 30 semester hour credits earned after July 1, 1993 from a Regionally Accredited college or university.

Qualification Requirements for Title I Facilities requires:

• New hires or transfers who have successfully achieved the Highly-Qualified ParaEducator status through successful completion of the ParaPro assessment or post-secondary education in accordance with the mandated requirements for Title I and/or relevant laws in place are eligible for placement at Grade XX (Higher Grade). However, placement in Grade XX (Higher Grade) is contingent on having met the aforementioned requirements and the school's Title I status. Grade placement may be reduced if the school no longer qualifies as Title I and/or you voluntarily transfer to a non-Title I Teacher Assistant position.

Eligibility for Consideration for Promotional Increase from Lower Grade to Higher Grade requires:

• Successful completion of 30 semester hour credits earned after July 1, 1993 from a Regionally Accredited college or university.
• Consistent maintenance of an effective and orderly work environment.
• Consistent compliance with general office procedures such as (1) standards contained in the AACPS Employee Handbook; (2) demonstration of discretion and excellent customer service; and (3) regular and punctual attendance.

LEADERSHIP ROLE

• N/A

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS
The physical demands and working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands

• Standing: under 1/3 of the time
• Walking: under 1/3 of the time
• Sitting: between 1/3 and 2/3 of the time
• Keyboarding: between 1/3 and 2/3 of the time
• Talking: between 1/3 and 2/3 of the time
• Hearing: between 1/3 and 2/3 of the time
• As required by the duties and responsibilities of the position.

Vision
The vision demands with correction described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• No special vision requirements

Work Environment
Location

• Office, school or similar indoor environment: over 2/3 of the time

Noise Level

• Moderate: between 1/3 and 2/3 of the time

Weight & Force
Lifting and carrying requirements

• Up to 25 pounds: under 1/3 of the time

Travel Requirements

• N/A

JOB INFORMATION

ORGANIZATION

HR JOB INFORMATION