Work @ HRL

Makerspace Facilitator

High River Library has an available term position funded by the Government of Canada's Young Canada Works program. 

2024-09-02 to 2025-03-29, $20/hour

If you are outgoing, flexible, self-directed, and have an interest in sharing the wonder of new technology with your community, join us at High River Library. High River Library is a public library providing a variety of programs and services to residents of High River and the surrounding area.

This position is a unique opportunity for someone passionate about promoting science and technology in a community setting. The Makerspace Facilitator will play a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and promoting a creative and interactive technology exploration zone within our library.

High River is a beautiful small community in southern Alberta located 68 kilometres south of Calgary and approximately an hour east of the Rocky Mountains. The town is rich in arts and culture--notable residents have included writer W.O. Mitchell and former Prime Minister, Joe Clark. High River has small town friendliness, a historic downtown, parks, a farmer's market, and festivals and events throughout the year. Visit the Town's website at https://highriver.ca/.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Conduct thorough research on best practices for library makerspaces.
  • Compile a comprehensive report with well-researched recommendations and a suggested list of equipment and furniture for purchase.
  • Manage the setup of the physical makerspace, ensuring all components are functional, attractive, and user-friendly.
  • Design clear and comprehensive training materials for staff and patrons.
  • Develop policies and procedures for equipment use, considering risk management and mitigation.
  • Ensure successful operation of equipment and completion of projects through in-person training and written instructional materials.
  • Design surveys or other outcome assessment measures.
  • Conduct makerspace programs providing an opportunity for residents of all ages and abilities to be involved in hands-on learning that will engage them with technology.
  • Develop promotional materials. Create engaging promotional and instructional videos showcasing makerspace equipment. Contact local media outlets, design posters, and conduct demonstrations to increase awareness of the makerspace.
  • Act as an ambassador for the makerspace in the community, increasing the library's visibility and profile.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

  • A background in Library and Information Studies, Elementary or Secondary Education, or Instructional Design is an asset.
  • Satisfactory background screening including a vulnerable sector criminal record check;
  • Must meet eligibility criteria for Young Canada Works at Building Careers in Heritage internship program;
  • Must be available to work day, evening, and weekend shifts.

Your Skills

  • Work well both independently and collaboratively;
  • Take initiative;
  • Have aptitude in learning new technology and strong enthusiasm for hands-on exploration of technology and equipment;
  • Have experience in preparing and presenting programs that support learning for all ages and abilities;
  • Provide excellent customer service;
  • Possess effective time management skills.

High River Library is an equal opportunity employer. Youth with a disability, Aboriginal youth, visible minorities, and new Canadians are encouraged to apply. If you require accommodation at any time throughout the recruitment process, please contact director@highriverlibrary.ca.

Apply by August 11, 2024 with a PDF resume and cover letter to:

Mary Zazelenchuk
Director
High River Library
director@highriverlibrary.ca

Library Assistant I (Casual On-call)

High River Library has an opportunity for a helpful, welcoming relationship-builder with daytime weekday availability. If you have a flexible schedule and are interested in libraries, public service, and technology join our team. Reporting to the Director, this position represents HRL to the community and supports public service operations.

Public Service

  • providing general orientation, direction, instruction, guidance and/or supervision to all library customers in person, online, and on the phone including help with readers’ advisory, technical help, promoting upcoming programs and library services    
  • arranging, filling or planning displays
  • processing cash and credit transactions
  • tasks associated with loans and returns (interlibrary loans, processing new items, drop box, catalogue searches)
  • administrative tasks such as scheduling exams, booking meeting rooms, recording program attendance, volunteer hours, etc.
  • opening and closing the library
  • shelf reading and shelving items in proper order according to library guidelines
  • general library tasks and maintenance
  • other duties as assigned by the director

Technology

  • respond to problems and determine appropriate resolutions
  • support and train public in using library technology (3D printer, Gadgets to Go items) and library online services (Libby, BrainFuse, Cantook Station, Freegal, cloudLibrary, Kanopy, etc.)
  • provide troubleshooting of MS Office, printer/photocopier, and other library technology

You

  • active listener with excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • perform effectively with co-workers in a team
  • eager to provide a welcoming environment for all library customers
  • demonstrate an existing foundation of strong digital literacy and technology troubleshooting skills
  • take initiative and use good judgment when making decisions
  • organized and able to prioritize tasks
  • enjoy taking on new challenges
  • have an interest in libraries, public service, and literacy

Additional Requirements

  • a minimum of Grade 12
  • satisfactory background screening including a vulnerable sector criminal record check
  • standard first aid training an asset

High River Library is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. If you require accommodation at any time throughout the recruitment process, please contact director@highriverlibrary.ca.

Apply by August 18, 2024 via email with a PDF resume and cover letter to:

Mary Zazelenchuk
Director
High River Library
director@highriverlibrary.ca

highriverlibrary.ca