1. KSC 1 Recognised Degree in Library and Information Science (or equivalent), eligibility for professional membership of the Australian Library and Information Association and appropriate library experience. I am currently undertaking my BAppSci (Info. Sc.) at Charles Sturt University via distance education. I will complete my qualification by November of this year with only one subject to go. In 2004 I finished my Diploma in Library and Information Services at Box Hill TAFE where I achieved distinctions in many subjects such as reference skills, managing an information agency, collection management and acquisitions. My varied work throughout a local public library service and the solo driving and operation of the mobiles has given me experience in being accountable for the operation and security of a branch. On a daily basis I am required to exercise my authority in decision making and use initiative to find appropriate solutions during trouble shooting operations.

2. KSC 2 Demonstrated numeracy, written and verbal communication skills relevant to providing excellent customer service to the general community. As a ‘people-person’, I naturally enjoy dealing with people. With good listening and interpretation skills, I am able to assist people with the highest level of service. Additionally, by being empathetic and supportive to problems or requests, I am best able to recommend an effective course of action, or assist in any way I can. I do this by taking the time to clarify the customer’s enquiry thoroughly and making sure the customer has the information they request or the resources to obtain that information. I then cross check with the customer to make sure they understand. I ensure I am attentive and polite in all my dealings with customers. An example of these skills is when I use the ‘First Impressions Count’ to promote the library. I am complimented regularly by staff and customers in regard to these skills.

3. KSC 3 Supervisory experience required, including well developed interpersonal skills and the ability to lead and work as part of a small team. As a public library service Information Librarian I am second in charge. In the absence of the branch manager I am responsible for any situation which arises. The branch manager is involved in the 48/52 where she takes 8 weeks leave per year. I look after the rostering for the branch, resolve customer complaints and assessing maintenance requirements. I find it easy to fit in with any type of personality be it staff or customer. I can successfully communicate with a range of people and believe that when working in a team if every step is explained clearly before being implemented, every member can work positively towards the same goal. At PLS we regularly support each other in working towards our aim of the best customer service possible. As a ‘Power User’ during the recent new system implementation I confidently motivated the branch team in the positive aspects of the new system. When working across the region I have always been willing to help out in whatever capacity is requested.

4. KSC 4 Understanding of, and the ability to recommend changes to library guidelines, practices and procedures. I have worked in libraries for thirteen years. This has included mainly public but also a few specialist libraries. This has enabled me to gain experience in different ways a library can operate. I am able to judge when a change would be beneficial to a branch. I am currently involved with collection development and library redesign at the branch. PLS was the first Victorian regional library to join the Swift Consortium (www.swiftproject.org.au ) which now consists of over 60% of Victorian Libraries. Consequently many of our policies are being assessed to achieve harmonization of polices and practices to provides a more seamless service to the public, easier and simpler inter-library activities and ease of upgrades.www.swiftproject.org.au

5. KSC 5 Demonstrated experience in the use of Microsoft Office including Word and Outlook and the ability to apply relevant information technology applications I am confident in quickly learning new systems and procedures. I continually use Microsoft office for my work and study purposes. During the recent changeover at my current workplace from the Geac system Libs+ to SirsiDynix Unicorn I was assigned to be my branches ‘Power User’. This involved taking responsibility of and ensuring all my branch members were practising and confident in using the new system. I charted their progress and encouraged them to ask questions. Good searching techniques are essential to my work as an information librarian. On the mobile library I frequently have questions which cannot be fulfilled by the limited book stock on board. I have participated in various reference training sessions so I am aware of the many and varied ways to find information. For example I regularly use and recommend to borrowers Proquest, Grove Art and the ANZ Reference Centre. I always check with the patron whether I have answered their query and am ready to continue searching if necessary.

6. KSC 6 Ability to undertake physical tasks as required of the position, including bending, reaching and prolonged standing. I have undertaken manual handling, MFB fire safety and defensive driver training for heavy vehicles. I also participated in the mobiles libraries Australia risk assessment for the ARK Consulting group. I follow a fairly healthy diet and exercise regularly. On a daily basis I perform library activities such as shelving and stand. I do not have any ongoing health problems. I believe I am a flexible, hard working person who can adapt to any situation I am faced with. Through my experience I can judge whether I can cope with a situation and I have the knowledge to call for backup if required.