[nfb-talk] Independent Living Library Liaison Iowa

[David Andrews]

State of Iowa
Transfer/Promotional Opportunity
Senior Services Specialist for the Blind 1
May 8, 2009
Independent Living Library Liaison

This is an eighteen month merit exempt position. Supports library 
patrons with the conversion to the use of digital talking books. 
Provides instruction one-on-one and in groups across the state on the 
use of new and existing technologies needed to access reading 
materials in alternative media.  Develops book discussion groups and 
works with library staff to identify and develop resources these 
groups can use to become self-directed and 
self-sustaining.  Coordinates library services and activities with 
other agency services and activities.  Assesses need for blindness 
related services, provides basic instruction in the use of 
alternative techniques and low vision aids, and makes referrals as 
appropriate for additional agency services.

Develops and implements outreach strategies designed to increase the 
number of individuals who access and use agency services with a 
special focus on library services.   Makes presentations on library 
services to consumer groups and civic, social and professional 
organizations and participates in public awareness events.

Must possess knowledge of or be able to learn effective alternative 
techniques of blindness, particularly in the areas of communications, 
travel with a long white cane, and home and personal management. Must 
possess highly developed teaching and counseling skills, good public 
speaking and writing skills, excellent organizational skills, and 
excellent judgment. Must possess the abilities to handle sensitive 
situations, solve problems, and work as a member of a team. Intensive 
training in appropriate skills and attitudes of blindness will be 
provided. Extensive statewide travel. Some evenings, overnights, and 
weekends.  This position will not extend beyond eighteen months.

Minimum qualifications are:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in 
human service-oriented sciences, education, marketing, or business 
and experience equal to three years of full time professional work, or;
the equivalent of three years of full-time experience as a 
rehabilitation counselor or teacher shall be considered as qualifying 
provided the employee has successfully completed training to meet the 
certification criteria established by the agency, or;
an equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting 
the equivalent of one year of full-time professional work experience 
for each year of the required education to a maximum substitution of 
four years.

Salary range: $42,369.60 - $64,521.60 annually, plus comprehensive 
benefit package, pay grade 28, pay plan 000

Hours:  8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday
For further information contact Becky Criswell, Supervisor, 
Independent Living, at 515-281-1299 or 800-362-2587.  Persons who 
wish to be considered for this position must submit a resume and 
letter of application to Karen A. Keninger, Iowa Department for the 
Blind, 524 Fourth Street, Des Moines, IA 50309 or 
karen.keninger at blind.state.ia.us no later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, 
May 18, 2009.
EEO/AA