The University of Iowa Libraries

The University of Iowa (UI) Libraries

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Arabic Specialist
Library Assistant III
(8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday-Friday)

Application Procedure: To apply for this position, please visit the University of Iowa Jobs@UIOWA website at http://jobs.uiowa.edu. To help facilitate your application process, note the requisition number 13190. Applications must be received by Wednesday, January 9, 2013.

In addition to performing the duties described below according to the specified performance expectations, Libraries’ staff need to meet Libraries’ and University expectations regarding:

• attendance, punctuality, and use of work resources as addressed in the UI’s Policy on Ethics and Responsibilities and Work Rules;
• positive impact/achieving results, service excellence/customer focus, and collaboration/embracing diversity as addressed in the Universal Competencies for Merit Staff;
• continuous developmental growth as addressed in the Libraries’ Development and Diversity Guidelines; and
• technology core competencies as listed in the Libraries’ IT Core Competency Self Checklist.

1.   Searches InfoHawk database and interprets information pertaining to Arabic, Persian, and English language materials to be ordered and cataloged. Records information concerning copies or editions held by the UI Libraries, standing orders for serial titles and analyzed sets, etc. Ability to transliterate Arabic script is essential. A thorough understanding of Acquisitions and Cataloging modules of InfoHawk is necessary, as well as an understanding of InfoHawk indexes and the ordering process. Work must be performed accurately and in a timely manner.
2.   Searches Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) Connexion and selects bibliographic records for materials to be received and/or cataloged in Arabic, Persian, and English. Imports records into InfoHawk or overlays them onto existing InfoHawk records. Edits lower-quality records. Ability to transliterate Arabic script is essential. In-depth knowledge of OCLC Connexion searching is essential, along with knowledge of bibliographic record quality required by cataloging staff.  Understanding of the MARC format is also important, with knowledge of how to manipulate bibliographic records in the InfoHawk cataloging module. Work must be performed accurately and in a timely manner.
3.   Creates brief bibliographic records in OCLC Connexion or InfoHawk for Arabic, Persian, and English language items to be ordered or received. Performs authority control on certain MARC fields. Ability to transliterate Arabic script is essential. A basic understanding of the MARC format is necessary, along with knowledge of using the InfoHawk cataloging module. Work must be performed accurately and in a timely manner.
4.   Receives firm ordered Arabic, Persian, and English language materials, including added volumes. Creates or imports separate records and performs overlays of bibliographic records when necessary. Working ability to transliterate Arabic script is essential. A basic understanding of the Acquisitions module of InfoHawk and check-in procedures is necessary. Work must be performed accurately and in a timely manner.
5.   Builds order records and checks-in titles for Arabic materials received on blanket and approval plans. Working ability to transliterate Arabic script is essential. A basic understanding of the Acquisitions module of InfoHawk is necessary. Work must be performed accurately and in a timely manner.
6.   Analyzes existing bibliographic records of received materials for correct description of items and for completeness of records. Resolves problems to comply with current Library of Congress (LC) rules and/or local cataloging standards and policies. Analyzes records for appropriate forms of names, uniform titles, subject headings and LC classification numbers and modifies records accordingly, taking into account local practice. Working ability to transliterate Arabic script is essential. Requires knowledge of cataloging rules, practices, and policies, or ability to discover and interpret them. Work must be performed accurately and in a timely manner.
7.   Analyzes and edits MARC tags in bibliographic records. Enters records into OCLC Connexion using a PC; barcodes and marks items to prepare them for circulation. Requires thorough understanding of MARC coding, national cataloging standards, InfoHawk functionality, and local holdings and circulation conventions. Work must be performed accurately and in a timely manner.
8.   Adapts or formulates LC classification numbers to appropriately reflect nature and content of books and their relation to other library holdings. Requires understanding of LC classification schedules, uniform titles, and local conventions. Work must be performed accurately and in a timely manner.
9.   Processes gift materials in multiple languages. Searches InfoHawk for copies, imports OCLC Connexion records and, when necessary, creates brief bibliographic records for acquisition purposes. Interacts with Acquisitions staff and various selectors. Work must be performed in an accurate and timely manner.
10. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Universal Competencies – General

• Positive Impact/Achieving Results: Ability to utilize and leverage existing resources and learning to achieve or exceed desired outcomes of current and future organizational goals/needs.  Able to demonstrate ethical behavior in diverse situations while producing results.
  Typical Behaviors
  • Appreciates the difference between effort and achievement and produces results that are important to unit.
  • Grasps the inevitability and difficulty of change, adapts tactics accordingly and utilizes learning opportunities to prepare for changing work.
  • Demonstrates a willingness to carry out responsibilities and an ethical, positive approach to getting work accomplished.
  • Demonstrates an understanding of how work aligns to organizational mission, vision, and University environment.
• Service Excellence/Customer Focus: Ability to meet or exceed customer service needs and expectations and provide excellent service in a direct or indirect manner. Ability to effectively transmit and interpret information through appropriate communication with internal and external customers.
  Typical Behaviors:
  • Consistently provides excellent service.
  • Manages customer expectations and takes responsibility to enhance service excellence.
  • Communicates understandably; uses appropriate words, grammar and mannerisms in all mediums.
  • Seeks feedback on communication style and effectiveness.
• Collaboration/Embracing Diversity:  Ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and civil manner while appreciating the unique contribution of individuals from varied cultures, nationalities, genders, ages, etc.
  Typical Behaviors:
  • Demonstrates civil and respectful behaviors valued within the organization.
  • Provides and accepts ideas and suggestions in a constructive and helpful manner.
  • Exhibits teamwork: is approachable, cooperative, and contributes to an overall positive and productive work/team environment.
  • Works effectively with individuals from all backgrounds.

11/20/12; 01/03/13