Trainer/Consultant (Technology)

Reports to: Regional Administrator

Definition: Administrative, professional and technical work includes providing technology infrastructure support for Metrowest and continuing education programming and advisory services to member libraries; all other related work as required.

Supervision: Works with a high degree of independence under the direction of the Regional Administrator.

A non-supervisory professional position; performs administrative, professional and technical work of a responsible nature in providing direct services to Metrowest members; recommends long and short term goals for the region; exercises independent judgment in areas of expertise.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities:

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.)

In consultation with the professional staff, plans, coordinates, and evaluates services to member libraries. Works with the other consultant(s) on collaborative Metrowest programs and projects. Represents Administration as assigned.

In consultation with the professional staff, assesses the needs for training, advisory and support services and recommends appropriate allocations of funds and staff time.

Serves as Editor of the Metrowest Newsletter on a rotating schedule.

Plans, coordinates, promotes and conducts workshops and training sessions at the appropriate level for member libraries. Conducts or organizes in-service training, workshops or demonstrations on appropriate topics.

In collaboration with Metrowest staff, participates in ongoing development and maintenance of Metrowest communication formats, including but not limited to, newsletter, website, flyers, and brochures.

Coordinates the compilation of remote and in-library database usage statistics by the Administrative Assistant; approves quarterly web page updates.

Develops and writes grant proposals. Implements and monitors grants as available.

8. Plans, implements and manages all regional services that deal with the use and application of new technologies, including but not limited to the Local Area network (LAN), Internet gateway, and computer lab.

Analyzes Metrowest hardware and software needs. Assists in the development of bid specifications.

Evaluates and makes recommendations regarding automation needs of the region and member libraries.

Keeps abreast of current library technology and its potential impact on Metrowest and its members in key areas such as library automation systems, metadata, cataloging and MARC records, digitization, bibliographic databases, networking, PC applications and cutting-edge technologies.

Develops automation training and procedures for regional staff, monitors the region’s participation in NELINET/OCLC and participates in their activities as required.

Assists with planning, implementation and management of automated services for Metrowest members, including the regional bibliographic database, Internet services, and other WEB-based initiatives.

Responds to questions and requests for advice, especially on technology issues, from member libraries, governing boards, support groups and individuals; uses all available resources (as appropriate), including Internet, print, online, telephone.

Serves as regional representative to statewide and Inter-Regional committees such as MBLC Library Directory (LDAP), MassCat, and Virtual Catalog.

Serves as liaison with Metrowest committees, task forces and interest groups such as MassCat, Reference and Electronic Database, and Continuing Education Committee.

Attends meetings, workshops, conferences and training sessions appropriate to the scope of the position.

Prepares appropriate surveys, reports, statistics, and databases to meet the needs of member libraries as well as the Metrowest Office.

Knows regional policies and procedures; accurately interprets them, and clearly and courteously communicates policies as necessary.

20. Keeps abreast of current library developments and new professional techniques. Participates in conferences, peer group meetings, committee work and shares information with other staff, Metrowest members, so that current trends may be used to improve the region’s workshops as appropriate.

Keeps Regional Administrator informed of developments affecting member libraries and regional staff.

Performs other duties as required.

Knowledge, Ability, and Skill

Knowledge. Comprehensive and broad knowledge of the issues, principles, and practices of library and information science. Strong knowledge and demonstrated experience with all forms of technology, including computers, office application software, local area networks, the Internet and WWW, Web Page Design (Dreamweaver experience desirable), Microsoft Office applications, online technology and telecommunications.

Ability. Ability to discern needs, analyze conditions, and envision future directions for regional services. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, member libraries, professional groups, and the general public. Ability to interact favorably and to communicate effectively, in speech and in writing, with library personnel and members of library governing and support groups at all levels of education, training and experience; both individually and in-group situations. Ability to handle numerous, diverse tasks at one time. Ability to prioritize multiple demands for time and support. Ability to initiate, organize and self-direct work responsibilities.

Skill. Skill in all forms of library technology, including automated systems, personal computers, office application software, local area networks, the Internet, and web page design. Strong oral and written communication skills. Skills in consulting, teaching and making presentations before small and large groups. Excellent planning and organization skills.

Minimum Qualifications

MLS from an ALA-accredited library school.
Minimum of five years of professional library work and/or comparable experience appropriate to the duties and responsibilities of the position.
Demonstrated practical knowledge of library policies and procedures especially in the areas of administration, planning, technical services, automation in libraries, Internet.
Demonstrated ability to convey this knowledge in person or in writing to library staff, trustees, local and state boards and commissions.
Demonstrated proficiency in writing and public speaking; ability to work independently and to initiate proposals for implementation in the Regional program.
Demonstrated working knowledge of micros, on-line systems, and experience in training and library technology. Demonstrated interest in expanding areas of responsibility.
Demonstrated interpersonal and communications skills.
Demonstrated practical knowledge of library policies and procedures in libraries.
Team player with initiative and excellent communications skills.
Massachusetts driver’s license required for use of car; car to be used at times which require flexibility in order to attend meetings in the region. (Staff member must provide own transportation, mileage is reimbursable)

Job Environment:

Work is performed under typical office and library conditions with occasional evening and weekend hours; regularly required to travel for meetings and consulting assignments; some work is performed in the field with exposure to various weather conditions.

Operates computers, server, telephone, fax, copier and other standard office equipment; operates computer lab equipment; operates automobile for transportation to member libraries and other meeting commitments.

Frequently meets with library groups, committees, librarians, and library trustees, making presentations and leading discussions before small groups and large audiences; contacts are of a professional nature, involving the discussion of complex and technical subjects and requiring considerable tact, perceptiveness and discretion; contacts are in person, by telephone, e-mail, and in writing.

Errors could result in service delays and confusion, reduce levels of service, misuse of staffing resources, cause adverse public relations, and jeopardize Metrowest programs.

(This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.)