Campus Pride Jobs

Mobile Campus Pride Logo

Job Information

State of Utah - Jobs Librarian I in SALT LAKE CITY, Utah

If you would like an opportunity to join a team of passionate individuals who work hard in providing qualify care and services to our offender population,then this is a job for you. The Utah Department of Corrections is looking for an experienced Librarian I,with exceptional organization skills and a willingness to want to help others. Under supervision of the Library Director,the Librarian I will provide library services to an offender population in a correctional setting.  This job requires professional knowledge of library services and practices.  You will perform duties in support of the libraries including (but not limited to) reference work,processing library materials,collection development and readers advisory.  May supervise and train offender workers,community volunteers and interns.

The Utah State Correctional Facility has libraries in four facilities and provides services to two other facilities. The libraries are a vital resource for the incarcerated population and function much like small public libraries. It aims to support educational and recreational needs,and promote literacy and personal development to over 3000 offenders.  

The library plays a crucial role in the daily lives of the incarcerated individuals,contributing to their mental well-being,personal development,and rehabilitation. By providing access to a range of reading materials and educational resources,the library helps offenders stay engaged,educated,and better prepared for reintegration into society upon release.

  Principle Duties:

  1. Operational Management
    • Ensure the offender libraries are fully operational for scheduled use.
    • Oversee daily operations to ensure the smooth and efficient running of library services.
  2. Patron Assistance
    • Assist offender patrons in learning the library rules and proper usage of library resources.
    • Guide patrons in using the library computer and finding the materials they need.
  3. Material Management
    • Check incoming materials for accuracy in cataloging and labeling.
    • Perform library reference work to help patrons find information.
    • Make recommendations about library materials to be purchased based on patron needs and interests.
    • Take requests for new materials from offenders,teachers,and therapeutic staff.
    • Arrange delivery of services to Restricted Housing areas under the supervision of security staff. 
  4. Data Collection and Analysis
    • Collect accurate statistics on library use to help in resource allocation and improvement planning.
  5. Donation Handling
    • Check incoming donations for unauthorized materials and determine their suitability for use in the library.
  6. Development and Improvement
    • Develop new ideas and contribute to library improvements and outreach efforts.
    • Stay informed about trends and best practices in library services to enhance offerings.
  7. Special Projects
    • Handle special projects as assigned by the Library Director,ensuring timely and effective completion

Additional Duties

  • Ensure compliance with facility policies and regulations.
  • Foster a positive and inclusive environment for all library users.
  • Participate in training and professional development to enhance library services.

These duties ensure that the library not only meets the immediate needs of the incarcerated population but also contributes to their long-term personal and educational dev elopment. The work schedule for this position will require some evenings and may require some weekends. Schedule will be finalized after training is completed. Ideal Candidate:

  • Has professional work experience in a library program.
  • Works well with a diverse population.
  • Can work independently
  • Deals with people in a manner which shows sensitivity,tact and professionalism.
  • Has experience using word processing,spreadsheet programs and library management software.

Preference will be given to candidates who have:

  • Bachelors degree in Library Science or a related field.
  • Three years of progressively responsible experience in a library which involved performing various library support activities (circulation work,reference work,etc.)
  • Knowledge of library terminology,practices,policies and procedures,and an understanding of the organization of library materials.
  • Experience supervising volunteers,interns or employees.
  • Experience working with law enforcement,jails or the courts.

Library Mission: Our mission is to provide high quality library services and materials that satisfy the educational,therapeutic and recreational needs of our offender patrons. Goals:

  • Providing a diverse and updated collection of reference and reading materials.
  • Giving each patron the opportunity to access the library once a week.
  • Creating an environment where our patrons will want to become life-long library users.
  • Creating partnerships with prison programs to ensure our offenders' needs are met.

Why You Should Join Our Team: As a benefited employee of the Department of Corrections,you will receive great health and retirement benefits. Click here to view a summary of the benefits we offer. We also provide generous paid time off so you can spend more time with your family and have a positive work-life balance. The Agency: For more information about the Department of Corrections and the Reentry and Rehabilitations Division click here. *This job is NOT public safety certified,and does not require peace officer status or certification. *

DirectEmployers