Intern Application

Description

Title of the position: 

Intern

Status: 

Temporary 

Schedule:

Day, evening, and weekend hours. Schedules will be adjusted in response to changing operational needs. 

Reports to: 

Department Manager

Supervisory Responsibility: 

None 

Position Summary: 

The Library Intern supports daily operations to gain hands-on experience in library services. This is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates interested in library science, information management, or education. 

Physical Requirements: 

The physical requirements are typical of an office environment and include sitting, standing, bending, walking, reaching, pushing/ pulling carts weighing over 100 lbs., lifting items weighing up to 25 lbs. and looking at a computer screen for long periods.

Competencies: 

The individual must understand the Library’s mission, goals and objectives; follow the Library’s policies and procedures. In order to perform the job successfully, an individual in this position must demonstrate the following competencies. 

1. Accurate/Efficient work performance:  The individual performs job functions in an accurate and efficient manner; produces an appropriate quantity of work; follows detailed procedures and ensures accuracy in data and documentation; has a strong attention to details, (without getting bogged down in unnecessary detail); makes sound judgments and timely decisions; is able to manage multiple projects; demonstrates strong ability to plan work and carry out tasks with minimal instructions; demonstrates ability to determine project urgency in a practical way; gathers information and bases decisions on fact rather than emotion; communicates openly and appropriately with immediate supervisor and chain-of-command. 

2. Good communication skills: The individual writes and speaks clearly and effectively; demonstrates openness and honesty; listens well during meetings and feedback sessions; states own opinions clearly and concisely; is willing to listen to the opinions and feedback of others; asks questions to ensure understanding; uses consideration and tact when offering opinions; informs supervisor/chain-of-command of problems in a timely manner. 

3. Reliability and Dependability:  The individual can be counted on to complete work in a timely and consistent manner; keeps commitments; is regularly present and punctual; arrives prepared for work; is committed to doing the best job possible; follows policies and procedures. 

4. Cooperation and Teamwork: The individual treats all people with kindness and respect; values diverse perspectives; works harmoniously with others; responds positively to instructions; works well with management, co-workers, and patrons of the Library; is open minded and is willing to change his/her opinions on the basis of new information; refrains from activity that disrupts the workplace, affects productivity, disparages others, or harms the reputation of others or the Library. 

5. Committed to Safety:  The individual takes personal responsibility for safety; understands, encourages and carries out safety measures at all times; uses equipment and materials properly; maintains a neat and orderly work environment.

Duties and Responsibilities: 

It is the responsibility of every employee of the Tuscaloosa Public Library (TPL) to perform duties that are necessary to ensure that the Library operates in a professional, efficient, and effective manner at all times. The list below is an outline of the primary duties to be performed in this position; however, the list is not all-inclusive and should not be perceived as such. Employees are expected to perform all duties as assigned by their supervisor or chain-of-command (or his/her designee). 

Primary Duties: 

• Assist with circulation duties, including checking materials in and out, shelving, and organizing collections
• Support reference and research services under librarian supervision
• Help patrons locate resources and use library equipment (e.g., computers, printers, catalogs)
• Participate in collection maintenance, such as weeding, labeling, and inventory
• Assist with the planning and execution of library programs and events
• Contribute to social media, displays, and outreach efforts
• Perform clerical tasks including data entry, filing, and updating records
• Works on special projects as assigned 

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Library Science, Education, or related program (required)
• One (1) – two (2) years previous experience providing customer service to the general public (preferred)
• A valid driver’s license