Mobile Library Driver/Library Assistant

Our Library System and the Mobile Library
The Thompson-Nicola Regional Library (TNRL), the largest department of the Regional District provides services through 13 locations and a Mobile Library. Located in the Central Interior of British Columbia, the TNRL is committed to providing excellent service to patrons for lifetime personal growth, learning and enjoyment. The Library team provides programming, materials and resources to people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities. As a member of the TNRL, you will help to build strong relationships and partnerships in all our communities.

The Mobile Library (ML) is a 2018 retrofitted 36’ International five-ton truck, with a mounted custom-built box with three slides and a generator housing a full-service library providing a range of materials including books, magazines, DVDs and more. The ML offers regular service to 31 rural and urban locations across the regional district. Patrons also visit the ML to use its public Wi-Fi and receive technology support. This award-winning vehicle also serves as the Library’s biggest billboard!

The Role

The Mobile Library Driver drives the Mobile Library or other fleet vehicles to communities across the regional district. Our Driver is passionate about library materials and programs and shares their enthusiasm with patrons. Other duties include performing pre and post-trip inspection of the ML and generator, troubleshooting minor repairs, and performing routine tasks that require heavy lifting, pushing and pulling, and washing the ML to keep it looking it's very best!

This casual position is on a relief basis and will include daytime, evening, weekend and overnight shifts, and may work alone.
Job Requirements

Essential Job Functions:

Take responsibility for the safety of the vehicle, staff, and the public during emergency situations, including threatening weather and vehicle trouble.
File computerized vehicle inspection reports (Navistream).
Keep the vehicle clean and orderly, both inside and out.
Provide friendly and professional customer service at ML stops.
Collegial and collaborative with other Library staff.
Prep, inspect, and drive the ML safely and promptly to scheduled daily stops and special events.
Check materials in and out of the Library’s inventory system.
Create accounts for new patrons.
Stock the ML at the beginning of each shift, shelve returned items at stops, and maintain shelving order alphabetically or by the Dewey Decimal Number.
Use webmail, staff scheduling software, and safety check-in software.
Perform routine general maintenance.
Fuel vehicle as scheduled.
Advise the Branch Head of Mobile Library of unsafe conditions of any kind.
Provide additional outreach services, such as stops to care homes, school visits, community events and other emergent solutions to extend the library’s reach.

General Job Functions:

Interact with patrons in person, by phone, or by email with respect, courtesy, and confidence.
Attend staff meetings, online and in-person training, and other activities.
Stay knowledgeable about library policies, procedures, events, and news.
Handle confidential patron information according to BC’s privacy legislation.
Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

The Ideal Candidate will have:

A valid class 5 BC driver’s license with On-highway Air Brake Endorsement and a clean driver’s abstract.
Minimum 2 years’ experience driving a large single-axle vehicle with air brake capabilities in all weather conditions.
Mechanical aptitude – the ability to effectively monitor vehicle performance and mechanical fitness via pre- and post-trip inspections.
Strong physical ability including standing or walking for an entire work day, heavy pushing, pulling, lifting or carrying, chain tires up, snow shovel as needed, and seated for extended periods while driving. Must be able to work in environmental conditions that may include exposure to dust, dirt, heat, cold, noise, fumes, odours, vibrations, humidity and temperature changes.
A passion for helping others and a belief in the importance of literacy.
Ability to build strong connections to the communities.
Demonstrated respect and concern for others, open-mindedness and generosity of spirit.
A good sense of humour.
A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, understanding that the public library is for everyone!
Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills.
Demonstrated ability to multi-task and work under pressure within tight deadlines and regular interruptions.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
An aptitude for technology. This includes:
Understanding of Windows, Android and iOS operating systems and familiarity with Microsoft Office programs.
Minimum keyboarding speed of 35wpm.
Ability to troubleshoot peripheral equipment such as printers, USB drives and wireless internet connections.
Ability to work with and learn a variety of software applications independently.
Ability to assist patrons with e-readers, tablets, smartphones, social media, email and eBooks/audiobooks.
Ability to work independently, with strong organizational skills.

Additional Assets:

Completion of a Diploma or other 2-year college/university program.
Completion of a children’s literature course from a recognized college or university or completed the CLTP Children and Young Adult courses (or equivalent).
Experience working with children (other than one's own) in a professional capacity. For example, teacher, daycare worker or sports coach.
Experience designing and delivering children’s programs.
Mother Goose training and Food Safe certificates.

The successful candidate must be available on short notice for daytime, evening, weekend and overnight shifts.

The position is subject to the provisions of the Collective Agreement with the BC Government and Service Employees’ Union, local 705. Casuals are scheduled for Library Assistant OR Driver shifts as required. Casual Library Assistant is a Grid + position (pays $27.60-$30.52 per hour). Casual Driver is a Grid 10 position (pays $28.43 - $31.45 per hour). Non-benefitted staff will receive a percentage in lieu of benefits. The TNRL requires that all successful applicants undergo a Criminal Record Check. Read more