Reader's Advisory Librarian

TSLAC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age or disability in employment or in the provision of services, programs, or activities. For job opening inquiries or to request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act please contact the TSLAC Human Resources office by calling 512-463-5474.Applications submitted to TSLAC may be subject to public disclosure, upon request, pursuant to the Texas Public Information Act.

Job Summary
Performs routine (journey-level) library work.  This position performs reference, research, and technical support, in a call center environment, for patrons of the Talking Book Program (TBP). TBP provides services via telephone, email, postal correspondence, and in person to patrons who have visual, physical, and/or reading disabilities that prevent them from reading standard print materials.  Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Tasks
Provides reader’s advisory service to patrons by locating and selecting reading material in accessible formats.
Assists with organizing and supporting patron participation in reading activities, such as book talks, reading clubs, discussion groups, and written reading advisory handouts.
Provides technical support to patrons on matters related to use of TBP and National Library Service (NLS) equipment and services, such as Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) service and the digital talking book machine (DTBM).
Assists with outreach activities, in cooperation with the program’s Public Engagement Office. 
Provides basic reference services, including online research.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Attend work regularly in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies.
Comply with all applicable agency policies and procedures, including safety, standards of conduct, and dress code.

Other Tasks
Special projects may include, but are not limited to, serving on committees, assisting other TBP staff in specific projects, or representing the division at public awareness events, professional conferences, etc.

Veterans, Reservist or Guardsmen with an MOS or additional duties that fall in the fields (No MOS) pertaining to the minimum experience requirements may meet the minimum qualifications for this position and are highly encouraged to apply. Please call Human Resources at (512) 463-6564 with questions or for additional information.

Additional Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MilitaryCrosswalkGuide.pdf

Minimum Qualifications
Master's degree in library/information science from an accredited program
Experience working in a library or bookstore.
Experience providing service to the public.
Experience using a personal computer and standard software packages.

Preferred Qualifications
Experience and/or coursework in reader’s advisory, collection development, reference services, reading technologies, and/or technical support.
Experience creating bibliographies, pathfinders, or other finding aids for library patrons.
Experience working with computer systems or databases. 
Experience using an integrated library system (ILS) or other automated records system to update and retrieve information. 
Experience conducting research with online databases or on the Internet.
Experience working in a talking book program library, and/or other experience working with persons with disabilities.
Experience taking or making calls in a customer service environment.
Experience providing technical support by telephone or email.
Experience using and/or troubleshooting smart devices and apps.
Experience writing for web pages, blogs, newsletters, or other publications.
Experience with adaptive devices and technology for the print impaired population.
Fluency in Spanish, with ability to converse with patrons and to discuss books effectively in Spanish.
Braille proficiency.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of books and general public reading interests, with personal interest in reading and ability to discuss books effectively.
Knowledge of library and reference tools, techniques, and services; standard research sources; and computer-assisted search theories and techniques.
Knowledge of office procedures and of spelling, grammar, punctuation, and arithmetic
Skill in the use of a computer, applicable software, and electronic resources used in libraries.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to handle complaints and resolve problems with tact and diplomacy.
Ability to complete job tasks accurately and neatly, with attention to detail.
Ability to conduct searches and evaluations of large amounts of materials; to establish priorities and organize work effectively; and to communicate effectively.
Ability to creatively problem-solve, negotiate and handle stressful situations in a positive manner.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-based environment.
Ability to work in a call center environment, including ability to sit for long periods of time, to block out noise from nearby workstations, and to wear telephone headsets with earpieces and mouthpieces.

Environmental/Physical Conditions
Normal office work environment and may have exposure to dust and environmental allergens consistent with normal business activities and human contact. Mostly sedentary in nature but may involve moving; standing; pulling and pushing kneeling, stooping and bending; performing tasks requiring fine motor skill and coordination to safely move items weighing up to 30 pounds. Must be able to work extended periods at a computer. Occasional overtime work, including nights, weekends, and holidays may be required, with ability to accrue compensatory time. Normal cognitive abilities including the ability to learn, recall and apply certain practices and policies and interpret data. Travel, some overnight, will be required to conduct training, speak publicly and attend meetings. 

Other Requirements
Must submit complete college transcripts.

Reporting Relationships
Reports to the Manager of the Reader Services department; works under team leadership of the Reader Services Librarian.