Job Specification

Purpose of Position :

To provide a proactive, highly specialized information management service to meet the diverse needs of MNR staff using the latest resources and techniques available in computer technology and library science. To assist in the provision of information management policy transfer and to provide co-ordination, guidance and support for records management in the Ministry.

Duties / Responsibilities :

Library Development/Administrative Duties
• Provide a proactive library service using the latest techniques in computer technology and library science by initiating new services, technology and resources in response to changing information needs of MNR.
• Plan, control and direct the Library Services function in the Ministry of Natural Resources by developing and maintaining standards, policies and directions which satisfy the needs of clients.
• Research, evaluate, select and purchase new services and technology to ensure the most efficient and effective delivery of library services
• Participate in the development of an information management strategy and implementation plan for the Ministry
• Negotiate and manage contracts with vendors for electronic services for the library. .
• Maintain good relationships with other libraries in Canada and internationally to facilitate client access to external resources
• Responsible for the collection, maintenance and preservation of the only comprehensive collection of MNR documents available and the preservation/control of unique, valuable collection of material in the area of natural resources accessed by other libraries/organizations throughout North America
• Team lead responsible for training and development of library technicians, Interns, students and other support staff
• Develop and prepare financial plans to identify and manage resource requirements and preparing business case documentation, budget forecasts and monitoring the Library budget.
• Manage general, administrative and support activities to ensure effective and efficient library operation.
Marketing/Promotion
• Promote and marketing information management and library services in the Ministry
• Provide an analysis of library programs and services through surveys and statistics in order to ensure the continuous improvement of library services
Records Management
• As the Ministry Coordinator for records management, provides guidance and support for records management in the Ministry
• Liaise with Archives on matters related to recorded information management.
• Promote the records management program across the Ministry.
• Train MNR employees in the use of Records Schedules.
• Assist in information management policy transfer activities.
• Liaise with Ministry program areas.

Staffing and Licencing :

Graduate of a Library Science or Information Management degree Programme from an accredited University.

Knowledge :

• Expert knowledge of information management and library science principles and the latest developments in information research methodologies.
• In-depth knowledge of Internet services and technology.
• Knowledge of project management skills to clarify goals, establish priorities, allocate resources, schedule the project, monitor and modify the project as necessary and to control timelines for successful and timely completion.
• Knowledge of MNR programs, policies and operations as well as in-depth subject knowledge within the area of natural resources in order to satisfy the needs of the clients, to develop the collection and to alert clients of new resources in their subject area.
• Extensive knowledge of scientific research methods and sources.
• Knowledge of training techniques and skills as well as presentation and marketing methodologies in order to train staff, students and consultants to enable them to access the information they require.
• Ability to market available library services using various presentation methods including verbal, use of Internet, Intranet etc. and including customised documentation to instruct clients in the most efficient and effective use of the available research tools and research methods.
• Ability to train/provide support to library staff.
• Advanced knowledge of the recorded information management legislation, policies and practices to coordinate and implement the records management program in the Ministry.

Skills :

• Researching, analyzing and evaluating new services, products and equipment including information retrieval/delivery systems in order to assess their relevance and make recommendations on acquisition/use to improve the delivery of information services for MNR.
• Superior communication skills to promote and market library services, discuss client and staff requirements, train staff and clients and consult with other Librarians and provide recommendations to senior management regarding library issues. Superior communications skills are also required to advise senior management on issues affecting the delivery of library services and management of information and to establish effective working relationships with clients, ministry staff and library staff.
• Interviewing and problem solving skills in order to provide advice and direction to satisfy clients' information needs.
• Ability to effectively negotiate contracts with vendors of services and equipment, suppliers and other libraries and reply to information requests.
• Writing skills to prepare project reports and training and promotional material, develop recommendations and business cases etc.
• Interpersonal skills to communicate with professional staff to determine highly complex information requirements.
• Position requires expertise in dealing with vendors, suppliers and other libraries in order to arrange for various services and acquire new technology to meet the current and future information needs of library clients
• Well developed administration skills to develop, implement and sustain new and/or existing library policies and programmes.
• Financial management skills to plan the library services budget and manage expenditures, financial reporting.
• Ability to use computer hardware and software appropriate to the work of the Library.

Freedom of Action :

• Job requires working within library science principles and ministry policies.
• Job requires assuming responsibility for the delivery of library services, training and developing staff and delegating tasks to library staff as appropriate.
• Position is responsible for the preparation of the library budget and for cost-effective allocation of program resources.
• Position is responsible for purchasing goods and services for the library such as books, supplies, equipment and negotiating licenses for web-based services to enhance library services to clients. Responsible for evaluating most cost effective method of acquiring goods and services, i.e. purchasing/licensing/acquiring by other means.
• Position makes recommendations regarding expenditure of library budget in areas such as computer equipment, software etc.
• Job requires exercising judgement in coordinating and prioritizing changing priorities on a daily basis.
• Position requires liaison with other OPS organizations in order to be aware of developments in the legislation, policies and current practices for records management.