Library Technician

Gaston County Government; North Carolina; On-site; USD 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Gaston County Government operates the Gaston County Public Library system with ten locations, including the Main Library and branches across the county. The role emphasizes high-quality customer service, library circulation, reference help, and community programs.

The ideal candidate will assist with Makerspace activities, digital resources, and program support while maintaining a welcoming environment for diverse patrons. Typical schedule runs Mon-Fri 8:00 AM–6:00 PM with alternate Saturdays.

Qualifications

• Requires a high school diploma or GED and at least two years in a service-related environment.
• Technologically proficient with Makerspace tools, Microsoft Office, social media, and database resources.
• Ability to receive instructions and communicate with the public.
• Commitment to working with diverse populations and creating a welcoming environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work independently; strong computer skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide excellent customer service to create welcoming, inclusive experiences.
• Assist patrons with all aspects of library use: readers’ advisory, checkouts, registrations, and info requests.
• Handle monies for fees and services as needed.
• Help patrons bridge the digital divide: job searching, internet use, databases, e-libraries.
• Instruct patrons in Makerspace tools, technology, and software.

Skills

Customer service

Makerspace tools

Microsoft Office

Digital literacy

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Makerspace technology

Job 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.

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

The duties listed below are not all of the duties that may be assigned but are those that are considered as essential for an employee to perform.

• 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.

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.

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.