School Librarian

Archer Company 2007 1 CODE: FLSA:

KERSHAW COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT, SOUTH CAROLINA JOB DESCRIPTION, OCTOBER 2007

JOB TITLE: MEDIA SPECIALIST

GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB

Under limited supervision, develops and manages the library media center at assigned school, providing prof essional media services to support curriculum, stimulate interest in reading and meet the information needs of students and teachers. Supervises the activities of assigned Media Clerks. Reports to the Principal.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Develops short - and long -term goals for the school media program; plans, organizes and implements media services and activities. Evaluates the effectiveness of media services and activities.

Develops policies and procedures for the use of media center services, materials and equipment.

Provides access to and schedules the use of materials, equipment, facilities and services.

Develops annual budget proposals for the media center, and manages budget expenditures.

Supervises the wo rk of Media Clerks, student assistants and volunteers; supervisory duties include instructing; assigning, reviewing and planning work of others; maintaining standards; coordinating activities, and acting on employee problems. Offers training, advice and a ssistance as needed.

Maintains an up -to-date selection of materials that support the curriculum and the recreational and information reading needs of all students. Determines requirements for materials and equipment based on usage statistics and teacher/s tudent requests; orders new materials and equipment as needed and oversees the maintenance of materials and equipment inventories.

Determines classification and processing specifications; catalogs materials. Ensures the proper preparation of materials for circulation and the maintenance of electronic materials' records.

Assists teachers in developing units of study and instructional activities, which incorporate media resources and include opportunities for students to practice research skills.

Instructs students (individually and in small or large groups) in the use of reference materials and in the development of research skills; assists students in using electronic resources and applications software.

Assists students and teachers in selecting appropr iate information sources and in locating needed information for research projects. MEDIA SPECIALIST

Archer Company 2007 2 Promotes reading and appreciation of literature.

Keeps teachers informed of available resources and information through the distribution of memos, materials lists, fliers and E-mail.

Conducts faculty in-service training on various subjects as required.

Maintains media center equipment and software; diagnoses and resolves computer problems; installs software and software upgrades. May serve as building administrator for the instructional computer network, providing computer assistance as needed; may supervise the videotaping/playback of broadcast instructional programs.

Receives, reviews, prepares and/or processes packing lists, surveys, summaries, various forms, requisitions, materials lists, bid specifications, invoices, annual report, circulation reports, budget proposal, training materials, grant proposals, notices, work orders, memos, correspondence, etc.

Refers to policy and procedure manual, computer manuals, periodicals, catalogs, etc.

Interacts and communicates with immediate supervisor, teachers, students, parents, District administrators and staff, computer repair persons, sales representatives, professional peers, community resource persons, etc.

Operates vario us types of machinery and equipment including computers, printers, scanner, audio-visual equipment, typewriter, telephone, adding machine, copier, fax machine, laminator, microfiche reader, video camera, binding machine, tape recorder, book carts, etc.

Uses clerical, copier, computer, video production and/or library supplies.

ADDITIONAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Prepares library/media center for daily use.

Performs general library duties, including processing new materials, cataloging, checking materials in and ou t, shelving materials, weeding materials, mending books, receiving and receipting fines for overdue materials, etc., as needed.

Performs general office and administrative duties as necessary, including answering the telephone, typing documents, copying an d filing documents, binding documents, performing desktop publishing, processing mail, attending meetings, etc.

Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Requires a Master's degree in library science with a concentration in s chool libraries, supplemented by one to two years of experience working in the classroom or in a library/media center, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

MEDIA SPECIALIST

Archer Company 2007 3 SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Must possess a valid teacher's certificate.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS OR STANDARDS REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Physical Requirements : Must be physically able to operate a variety of automated office machines and equipment including a computer, adding machine, audio -visual equipment, copier, etc. Tasks involve the ability to exert very moderate physical effort in light work, typically involving some combination of stooping, kneeling, and the lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (12 -20 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation.

Data Conception : Requires the ability to compare and/or judge the readily observable functional, structural or compositional characteristics (whether similar to or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people or things.

Interpersonal Communications : Requires the ability of speaking and/or signaling people to convey or exchange information. Includes giving a ssignments and/or directions to subordinates and receiving assignments and/or direction from supervisor.

Language Ability: Requires ability to read a variety of budgets, reference materials, technical manuals, etc. Requires the ability to prepare report s, records, budgets, correspondence, etc., with proper format, punctuation, spelling and grammar, using all parts of speech. Requires the ability to speak with and before others with poise, voice control and confidence.

Intelligence: Requires the ability to apply principles of logical thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions; to deal with several abstract and concrete variables. Requires the ability to apply influence systems in managing a staff; to learn and understand relatively complex principles and techniques; to make independent judgments in absence of supervision; to acquire knowledge of topics related to primary occupation. Must have the ability to comprehend and interpret received information.

Verbal Aptitude: Requires the ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, to follow and give verbal and written instructions; to counsel and teach employees, students and teachers. Must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently wi th persons of varying ages and cultural and educational backgrounds, and using a variety of technical and/or professional languages including education, library science, computer, budgeting, etc.

Numerical Aptitude: Requires the ability to add and subtra ct totals, to multiply and divide, to determine percentages and decimals and to determine time. Must be able to use practical applications of fractions, percentages, ratio and proportion.

Form/Spatial Aptitude: Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width and shape, and visually read various information.

Motor Coordination: Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes using office machinery.

MEDIA SPECIALIST

Archer Company 2007 4 Manual Dexterity: Requires the ability to handle a variety of items, keyboards, offic e equipment, control knobs, buttons, switches, catches, etc. Must have minimal levels of eye/hand/foot coordination.

Color Discrimination and Visual Acuity: Requires the ability to differentiate colors and shades of color; requires the visual acuity to determine depth perception, peripheral vision, inspection for small parts; preparing and analyzing written or computer data, etc.

Interpersonal Temperament : Requires the ability to deal with people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Must be adapt able to performing under stress when confronted with emergency situations or tight deadlines.

Physical Communications : Requires the ability to talk and hear: (talking: expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words; hearing: perceiving nature of sounds by ear).

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Knowledge of Job: Has thorough knowledge of the methods, procedures and policies of the Kershaw County School District as they pertain to the performance of duties of the Media Specialist. Has thorough knowledg e of the organization of related departments and agencies. Has knowledge of the laws, ordinances, standards and regulations pertaining to the specific duties and responsibilities of the position. Is able to make sound, educated decisions. Is able to plan and develop daily, short- and long-term goals related to District purposes. Is able to take the initiative to complete the duties of the position without the need of direct supervision. Is able to plan, organize and prioritize daily assignments and work activities. Has knowledge in the areas of library science and practices, research methods and resources, program development, training development, computer software/hardware and applications, etc. Has knowledge of how to apply supervisory and managerial concepts and principles; has knowledge of administrative principles involved in developing, directing and supervising various programs and related activities. Is able to offer instruction and advice to subordinates regarding departmental policies, methods and regulations. Is able to perform employee evaluations and to make recommendations based on results. Is able to offer training and assistance to co-workers and employees of other departments as required. Is able to read and interpret complex materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job. Is able to assemble and analyze information and make written reports and records in a concise, clear and effective manner. Has comprehensive knowledge of the terminology and various professional languages used within the department. Has knowledge of proper English usage, grammar, punctuation and spelling; has the mathematical ability to handle required calculations. Is able to compile, organize and utilize various financial information necessary in the preparation of the departmental budget, and knows how to prepare and monitor the budget. Has knowledge of and is able to use modern office practices and equipment, including computers. Is able to make minor repairs and adjustments to equipment. Has knowledge of h ow to maintain effective relationships with personnel of other departments, professionals and members of the public through contact and cooperation. Has knowledge of how to make public presentations. Has knowledge of how to react calmly and quickly in emer gency situations. Has knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the trade. Is able to learn and utilize new skills and information to improve job performance and efficiency.

Quality of Work: Maintains high standards of accuracy in exercising duties and responsibilities. Exercises immediate remedial action to correct any quality deficiencies that occur in areas of responsibility. Maintains high quality communication and interaction with internal and external entities with whom the position interacts. MEDIA SPECIALIST

Archer Company 2007 5 Quantity of Work : Performs described Essential Functions and related assignments efficiently and effectively in order to produce quantity of work which consistently meets established standards and expectations.

Dependability: Assumes responsibility for completing assigned work. Completes assigned work within deadlines in accordance with directives, policy, standards and prescribed procedures. Maintains accountability for assigned responsibilities in the technical, human and concept ual areas.

Attendance: Attends and remains at work regularly and adheres to policies and procedures regarding absenteeism and tardiness. Provides adequate notice to higher management with respect to vacation time and leave requests.

Initiative and Enth usiasm: Maintains an enthusiastic, self -reliant and self -starting approach to meet job responsibilities and accountabilities. Strives to anticipate work to be accomplished, and initiates proper and acceptable action for the completion of work with a mini mum of supervision and instruction.

Judgment: Exercises analytical judgment in areas of responsibility. Identifies issues or situations as they occur and specifies decision objectives. Identifies or assists in identifying alternative solutions to issues or situations. Implements decisions in accordance with prescribed and effective policies and procedures and with a minimum of errors. Seeks expert or experienced advice where appropriate and researches issues, situations and alternatives before exercising judgment.

Cooperation: Accepts supervisory instruction and direction and strives to meet the goals and objectives of same. Questions such instruction and direction when clarification of results or consequences are justified, i.e., poor communication s, variance with established policies or procedures, etc. Offers suggestions and recommendations to encourage and improve cooperation intra- and inter-departmentally.

Relationships with Others: Shares knowledge with managers, supervisors and co -workers for mutual benefit. Contributes to maintaining high morale among all employees. Develops and maintains cooperative and courteous relationships inter - and intra -departmentally, and with external entities with whom the position interacts. Tactfully and ef fectively handles requests, suggestions and complaints in order to established and maintain good will. Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive image.

Coordination of Work : Plans and organizes daily work routine. Establishes priorities for t he completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology. Avoids duplication of effort. Estimates expected time of completion of work elements and establishes a personal schedule accordingly. Attends required meetings, planning session s and discussions on time. Implements work activity in accordance with priorities and estimated schedules.

Safety and Housekeeping : Adheres to all established safety and housekeeping standards. Ensures such standards are not violated.

Planning: P lans, coordinates and uses information effectively to enhance activities and production. Knows and understands expectations regarding such activities and works to ensure such expectations are met. Develops and formulates ways, means and timing to achieve established goals and objectives. Effectively and efficiently organizes, arranges and allocates manpower, financial and other designated resources to achieve such goals and objectives. MEDIA SPECIALIST

Archer Company 2007 6 Organizing: Efficiently organizes own work and that of subordinate s taff. Ensures that personnel understand what results are expected of them, and that each is regularly and appropriately informed of all matters affecting or of concern to them.

Staffing: Works with upper management, where appropriate, to select and reco mmend employment of qualified personnel. Personally directs the development and training of personnel under charge, ensuring their proper induction, orientation and training.

Leading: Provides a work environment, which encourages clear and open communications. Has a clear and comprehensive understanding of the principles of effective leadership and how such principles are to be applied. Provides adequate feedback to personnel under charge concerning their performance. Commends and rewards personnel under charge for outstanding performance, and takes timely and appropriate disciplinary action as necessary. Exercises enthusiasm in influencing and guiding others toward achievement of established goals and objectives.

Controlling: Provides a work environment, which is orderly and controlled. Coordinates, audits, and controls manpower and financial resources efficiently and effectively. Coordinates, audits, and controls the utilization of materials and equipment efficiently and effectively. Has a clear and comprehensive understanding of established standards, methods and procedures.

Delegating: Assigns duties as necessary and/or appropriate to meet goals, enhance abilities of personnel under charge, build their confidence and assist them in personal gr owth. Has confidence in personnel under charge to meet new or additional expectations.

Decision Making: Exercises discretion and judgment in developing and implementing courses of action affecting functions under charge. Recognizes when a particular po licy, procedure or strategy does not foster the desired result, and moves decisively and explicitly to develop and implement alternatives.

Creativity: Regularly seeks new and improved methodologies, policies and procedures for enhancing the effectiveness of functions under charge. Employs imagination and creativity in the application of duties and responsibilities. Is not adverse to change that supports achievement of goals and objectives.

Human Relations : Strives to develop and maintain excellent rap port with personnel under charge. Listens to and considers their suggestions and complaints, and responds appropriately. Establishes a work environment to promote and maintain mutual respect.

Policy Implementation : Has a clear and comprehensive underst anding of policies regarding functions under charge and the function of the organization. Adheres to policies in the discharge of duties and responsibilities, and ensures the same from personnel under charge.

Policy Formulation: Maintains awareness of c hanges in operating philosophies and policies, and routinely reviews policies to ensure any changes in philosophy or practice are appropriately incorporated into functions under charge. Recognizes and understands the relationship between operating policies and practices and morale and performance. Strives to ensure that established policies enhance same.

DISCLAIMER: This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.