Library Assistant

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Job description

The ASL libraries serve as a vital hub of curricular and extracurricular activity. The libraries are regarded by all members of the community as a classroom, a resource center, and a place to go for work as well as pleasure. The role-holder is a core member of the school's TILM (technology, information literacy, and media) team. They assist the school's Librarians/TILM Co-teachers in the Mellon and Lower School (LS) Libraries in the full utilization of services, materials and resources offered to students, faculty and staff with a focus on cataloging. They also provide behind-the-scenes and direct person-to-person support to patrons.

This position is part-time, 17.5 hours per week during school term time.

Summary of Major Responsibilities

Cataloging and Administrative Duties:

• Assist Head Librarian in cataloging resources in the school library's cataloging system (Destiny) for both the LS & Mellon Libraries
• Locate and verify bibliographic information for materials received; download MARC records and customize for ASL
• Process new library materials quickly and efficiently to ensure they are ready for circulation (catalog, stamp, cover, and secure)
• Help maintain, manage, and unify digital resource platforms; i.e. Sora, Novelist Plus
• Manage and document books for special collections; i.e. AMC, ASL Authors, Heritage Collection
• Assist the Head Librarian in managing book ordering and fulfillment as well as well as requisitioning library supplies
• Assist with budget documentation and credit card payments
• Assist the Head Librarian with the preparation of periodic statistical and library reports
• Assist the TILM librarians/co-teachers in the daily operation of the libraries
• Perform a variety of library-focused and computer-related tasks as assigned
• Shelve, straighten, and shelf-read collection
• Work with TILM librarians/co-teachers to maintain a current collection by discarding outdated and worn materials
• Pull library materials that need to be mended, discarded, and/or replaced
• Assist with creating displays and bulletin boards in and around the libraries
• Conduct yearly inventory of Library materials in both the Mellon and Lower School Libraries; resolve problems and discrepancies arising from this
• Assist patrons in locating materials, using the online catalog (OPAC) and accessing online resources
• Promote reading as both a personal and academic pursuit
• Provide a welcoming and culturally responsive atmosphere for patrons in the libraries and assist them in the selection of materials
• Help maintain an orderly environment conducive to learning, addressing student behavioral issues where necessary
• Attend library-related meetings, workshops, and in-service programs when required
• Any other duties as are within the scope, spirit and purpose of the job as requested by the supervisor

Essential Qualifications/Experience:

• A demonstrable awareness of and commitment to diversity and inclusion and to safeguarding in education
• Confidence in working with a diverse range of patrons aged from 4 to adult
• Previous experience working with young people or in a school environment
• Familiarity with cataloging standards and metadata
• Competence in using various software tools, databases, and digital cataloging systems
• Working knowledge of how print and digital libraries are organized
• Strong attention to detail for accurate data entry and cataloging
• Ability to conduct research to verify information and enhance catalog entries
• Willingness to adapt to new technologies and changes in cataloging practices
• Ability to work independently, problem-solve, take initiative, and demonstrate flexibility
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively
• Excellent interpersonal communication and organizational skills

Desirable Qualifications/Experience:

• Library-relevant degree or other qualification

This position description is current at the date shown but following consultation may be changed to reflect or anticipate changes in the role that are commensurate with the job title and salary.

The American School in London is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all trustees, employees and volunteers to share this commitment. All new appointments will be subject to appropriate checks: Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS enhanced), Disqualification by Association Self-Declaration, Declaration of Criminal Record, checks against the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) Prohibition List (Teacher Status Checks) including Identity, Address, Date of Birth, a Full Employment History, Right to Work in the UK, overseas checks where applicable, at least 2 references (one with current or most recent employer, where appropriate) and original documentation of Qualifications (where appropriate). For positions into Senior Management a Prohibition from Management Check (s128 Directive) will also be undertaken.

All posts involving direct contact with children are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. However, amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975 (2013 & 2020) provide that certain spent convictions and cautions are 'protected'. These are not subject to disclosure to employers and cannot be taken into account. Guidance and criteria on the filtering of these cautions and convictions can be found on the Ministry of Justice website. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide details of all unspent convictions and those that would not be filtered, prior to the date of the interview. You may be asked for further information about your criminal history during the recruitment process. If your application is successful, this self-disclosure information will be checked against information from the Disclosure & Barring Service before your appointment is confirmed.

ASL is dedicated to fostering courageous global citizenship in a diverse and inclusive school environment. In our international community, we aspire for the cultures and backgrounds of our employees to mirror those of our families and student body, and we enthusiastically welcome applications from candidates who bring diverse life experiences, perspectives and skills. Educators with knowledge of global education and prospective applicants for any position who are committed to diversity and inclusion are particularly welcome to apply. The American School in London will not discriminate against an applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, maternity or parental status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under local law.

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