Job Advert: Library Technician
WORK HOURS: Full time, 40 hours/week
CLOSING DATE: June 13, 2017
The U.S. Mission in Yaounde, Cameroon is seeking eligible and qualified applicants for the position of Library Technician. This position is located in Yaounde, Cameroon.
BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION
Under the direct supervision of the Information Resources Center (IRC) Director, the incumbent manages the IRC circulation desk, provides IRC patron assistance, research, outreach, and collection development of limited scope; researches IRC electronic and traditional resources to respond to the full range of inquiries for information from the host country audience, Public Affairs staff, and other agencies in the Embassy; assists senior IRC staff in the Outreach and Collections functions; and assists the IRC Director in overseeing the activities of American Corners.
Circulation Desk/Research/Reference: 60% of Time
Manages IRC patrons, issues membership cards, ensures book check-in and check-out, as well as regular shelf-reading. Responds to inquiries for in-depth information primarily from the host country audiences at all levels, PAS staff, and other offices/agencies at post. Helps patrons access and use IRC resources. Analyzes the content of the inquiry and, if needed, contacts the client to discuss and clarify the request. The research is completed using a wide range of traditional and electronic resources including, but not limited to, the Internet, commercial on-line data bases, and U.S. government sources. Develops search strategies based on subject matter knowledge, structure of resource and interview with clients.
Identifies items of interest to IRC staff by reviewing incoming documents and periodicals. Keeps abreast of emerging information technology as well as the structure and validity of its content. The incumbent stays informed on topics relevant to Mission goals through U.S. government reports, think tank reports, professional journals, periodicals and newspapers.
Outreach: 30% of Time
Provides following types of technical outreach services in support of the IRC program:
- Plans, implements, and reports on IRC outreach programs.
- Periodically reports to the IRC Director or the Cultural Affairs Officer on the use of outreach services by host country audience and users of IRC services, and on any problems and issues. Participates in outreach and in-reach activities as required including those at American Corners. Schedules appointments for researchers using the Information Resource Center services. Briefs users on IRC services and procedures. Provides individual instruction to researchers using reference material in the IRC.
- Upon request, provides books, periodicals and other written material to target audience members.
- Oversees the library's recycling funds program.
- Participates in professional organizations and conferences and maintains contact with information professionals to keep abreast of host country developments and to advise them of IRC capabilities and services.
IRC Collection Maintenance: 10% of Time
Catalogs and maintains collection. Suggests new book titles and materials of interest to target demographic groups; updates the library's collection development policy in consultation with the IRC Director. Identifies materials which are out of date and/or of marginal interest and recommends disposal. Administers the library's e-book program. As requested, drafts statistical and other periodic reports for PAS staff.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
Applicants must address each required qualification listed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each item. Failure to do so may result in a determination that the applicant is not qualified.
EDUCATION: A Bachelor's degree in Library/Information Sciences or American studies is required.
EXPERIENCE: At least two years of progressively responsible experience in traditional library reference services and in the use of emerging information technologies and electronic media resources is required, in an international organization or a large local institution.
LANGUAGE: Level IV (Fluent) speaking/reading/writing English and Level III (Good Working Knowledge) speaking/reading/writing French are required. (This will be tested.)
SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Incumbent must have interpersonal, cross cultural skills and excellent service orientation to target audience; abilities to carry out reference searches and respond rapidly to requests; work effectively with American and locally employed staffs; plan, organize, and carry out assigned responsibilities using electronic based technologies, including the Internet, commercial on-line data bases, and print resources. (This will be tested.)
JOB KNOWLEDGE: Incumbent must have knowledge of electronic retrieval and delivery tools, in particular the Internet and standard information science practices and procedures; basic understanding of contemporary U.S. affairs as well as knowledge of U.S. governmental and political processes.
HOW TO APPLY: Applicants must submit the following documents to be considered. Failure to do so may result in a determination that the applicant is not qualified.
- Universal Application for Employment (UAE) (Form DS-174), which is available on our website or by contacting Human Resources. (See “For Further Information” above);
- Any additional documentation that supports or addresses the requirements listed above (e.g. transcripts, degrees, etc.)
WHERE TO APPLY:
Human Resources Office
P.O. Box 817, Tel.: 222-201-500, Ext 4006, U.S. Embassy Yaounde, Cameroon
- E-mail Address: ydeapplicants@state.gov
- Indicate the position title on the subject line.