Technical Services Specialist - Public Library

About Kansas City, Kansas Public Library:
Kansas City, Kansas Public Library (KCKPL) serves Wyandotte County, a community in Northeastern Kansas with a population of around 170,000, through five library branches and three mobile libraries. KCKPL was established in 1893 and has been under the authority of the Kansas City, Kansas Public School District Board of Education since 1899. The Library's mission is to connect members of a dynamic community with information, tools, resources, and welcoming spaces to enrich lives in Wyandotte County.

Job Goal:
The Technical Services Specialist supports the daily operations of the Collection Services Department by ordering, processing and copy cataloging materials, verifying orders, and maintaining inventory. This role ensures accurate data entry and timely workflow to support public access to the library's materials across all branches and systems.

Essential Functions

• Perform copy cataloging of materials using MARC21, Dewey Decimal Classification, RDA, AARCR2 and LC subject headings by following local and national policies to maintain consistency.

• Perform corrections or reclassifications to ensure consistency and ease of access across collections and to make all materials discoverable and retrievable.

• Organize materials by priority and complete tasks accurately and on time.

• Download and maintain FTP files and overlays to ensure accurate and up-to-date catalog records.

• Process library materials such as books, CDs, DVDs, newspapers, and other materials.

• Prepare, verify, and maintain records for material orders and deliveries.

• Maintain acquisitions, cataloging, and order records within the library's integrated library system (ILS) and vendor platforms.

• Interpret and apply cataloging standards, policies, and procedures to resolve cataloging, acquisitions, and workflow issues.

• Receive and verify library materials, ensuring orders are accurate, complete, and free from damage.

• Collaborate with department staff to meet workflow needs.

• Maintain attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy in all tasks.

• Communicate clearly with staff and vendors regarding acquisitions and cataloging.

• Attend trainings, workshops, and meetings as required.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Demonstrated experience managing acquisitions, receiving, processing, and cataloging workflows from order placement through item availability.

• Demonstrated knowledge of library cataloging standards, copy cataloging practices, and the Dewey Decimal Classification System.

• Ability to interpret and apply cataloging standards, policies, and procedures to resolve cataloging and workflow issues.

• Experience maintaining and troubleshooting vendor record services, FTP downloads, or automated catalog record processes.

• Strong understanding of integrated library systems (ILS), vendor platforms, and technical services workflows.

• Demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple projects, establish priorities, and maintain a high degree of accuracy.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate with vendors and library staff.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and contribute effectively as part of a team.

• Reliable transportation required for job-related tasks.

• Must pass a background check per library policy.

• Must support and uphold the mission and policies of KCKPL.

Physical Demands
Must be able to stand, kneel, walk, reach, stoop, and lift up to 50 pounds. Work may occur in environments with dust, mildew, varying lighting, and moderate noise levels. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Work Environment
Primarily office and library technical services work environment. Work is hands-on, task-oriented, and requires precision and focus.

Benefits
Vacation, disability, and personal days granted annually pursuant to KCKPS Board Policies (GARH - Absences, Leave, and Vacation). Salary based on KCKPL's classification and salary schedule. Final placement based on qualifications and experience. Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and additional hours as needed is required.