Library Technician

Gaston County Government; Bessemer City (NC); On-site; USD 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental and Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

401K with county contribution

Flexible Work Schedules

Professional Development

YMCA Membership Discount

Job summary

Gaston County Government operates the Gaston County Public Library system and is seeking a service‑oriented individual to join our team. You will assist patrons, manage circulation tasks, and support Makerspace activities while promoting inclusive access to library resources.

The role requires a high school diploma or GED and at least two years in a service setting, with strong communication skills and tech-savviness. Flexible hours support a Monday–Friday schedule and some Saturdays.

Qualifications

• Requires a high school diploma or GED and at least two years of experience in a service-related environment.
• Technologically proficient with Makerspace technology, Microsoft Office, social media and database resources.
• Must communicate effectively with the public and work with diverse populations.

Responsibilities

• Provides excellent customer service to create a welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Assists patrons with all aspects of library use including readers’ advisory, checkout, registration, and information needs.
• Handles monetary transactions for fees and services as needed.
• Assists patrons with Makerspace tools and digital resources.
• Plans and conducts in-house and outreach programs, including STEAM activities.
• Provides material recommendations and participates in collection management.
• Promotes library services through exhibits and displays within the branch and county.
• Serves on library/county teams or committees and assists other locations as needed.
• May assume branch responsibilities in supervisor’s absence.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Independent work

Diversity awareness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Makerspace technology

Microsoft Office

Social media

Database resources

Job description

Joining the team at Gaston County Government means being part of a community that is dedicated to improving the lives of its citizens. We are a dynamic organization that values innovation, collaboration, and commitment to service.

As an employee of Gaston County, you will have the opportunity to make a difference in your community every day. Whether you are working in public safety, social services, or administration, your contributions will help improve the lives of our residents and build a better future for our county.

Description

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 Gaston County Public 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.

Examples of Duties

The anticipated hiring range for this position is $16.88 - $20.04

• 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; weed 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.

Minimum Qualifications

Requires a high school diploma or a GED equivalency and at least two (2) years of experience in a service-related environment, preferably in a library setting.

Candidates must be technologically proficient and experienced in the use of Makerspace technology, Microsoft Office applications, social media, and database resources. Must possess the ability to receive instructions and communicate with the public. Must be committed to working with diverse populations and creating a welcoming environment.

Requirements for this position also include strong communication and interpersonal skills. The ability to work independently is essential. Strong computer skills required.

Must be able 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.

• Must have the physical ability to bend, stoop, and to push and pull loaded carts weighing 25-50 lbs.
• Must have the ability to lift and maneuver crates/boxes/materials weighing 25-50 lbs.
• Must be able to sit and stand for long periods of time.
• Must be able to operate office and computer equipment.

Additional Information

The applicant selected must undergo a criminal background check and pass a drug screening test prior to employment.

In compliance with G.S. 153A-94.2 (b), if the position being filled requires an applicant for employment to work with children in any capacity, the County must require the applicant, if offered the position, to be subject to a criminal history record check conducted by the SBI. These checks must be performed in accordance with G.S.143B-1209.26, which authorizes the SBI to provide fingerprint-based state and national criminal record checks to cities and counties.

At Gaston County, we are committed to providing equal opportunity to all employees, job applicants, and members of the community we serve. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable laws.

Gaston County will not sponsor applicants for work visas.

Full-Time

Full-Time employees are eligible for the total compensation package which includes:

• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Retirement Savings Plans
• Pension
• 401K (with 5% county contribution annually)
• Flexible Work Schedules
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Discounted YMCA Membership

Part-Time

Part-Time employees are eligible for certain benefits as a part of employment with Gaston County such as:

• Pro-Rated Sick and Annual Leave
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Local Government Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program

Half-Time

Half-Time employees are not eligible for benefits.

To learn more details about the many benefits we provide view our Employee Benefits Guide.

Overall, if you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career with competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, Gaston County is the place for you.