Staff Librarian - Reference

Be a part of history! The Concord Free Public Library is celebrating its 150th anniversary in a beautifully remodeled building in the heart of historic Concord. The Library seeks a full-time reference librarian with a focus on adult programming. The successful candidate will work under the general supervision of the Head of Reference and will perform highly responsible administrative, direct service, supervisory and professional work in the areas of adult programming and collection development, as well as reference, research, instruction and reading advisory services to patrons. This role strives to meet the information and library needs of all patrons by offering informative programs, developing a collection that represents a wide range of interests, and working cooperatively with other staff, town departments, and community groups. Come join a team of dedicated creative people whose mission is to inspire lifelong learning. Full salary range: $58,109 – 87,654; starting pay based on qualifications typically on the first half of the range.

Applications must be received by August 25, 2023. The most highly qualified candidates will be invited to one or more interviews and/or other assessments. All applicants will be notified of their standing in the process as soon as a decision has been made regarding their individual application.

Appointment of the final candidate will be contingent upon the results of pre-placement conditions including a criminal record check, physical exam and a drug screening. Costs for these pre-placement requirements will be borne by the Town. Some pre-placement conditions may be waived if previously met.

Individuals who need accommodation in order to participate in this process should contact the Concord Human Resources Department.

The Town of Concord, MA is an EEO Employer. We value diversity and welcome candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

Department: Library, Reference Services Salary Grade: LP-3
AFSCME Non-Supervisory

Reports To: Head of Reference FLSA Status: Exempt

Appointed By: Town Manager Date: August 2023

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Head of Reference, performs highly responsible administrative, direct service, supervisory and professional work in the areas of providing reference, research, instruction and reading advisory services to patrons. Responsible for maintaining and improving upon the efficiency and effectiveness of all areas under the direction and control of the position. Performs varied and responsible duties requiring a thorough knowledge of departmental operations and the exercise of judgment and initiative in completing tasks, particularly in situations not clearly defined by precedent or established procedures. Incumbent is called upon to handle a significant amount of detail, each varying from the other in substance and content, requiring incumbent to approach workload with flexibility.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who are or become disabled as defined under the Americans With Disabilities Act, must be able to perform the essential job functions (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case by case basis.

¨ Develops assigned collections; purchases, plans shelving, advertises via displays and lists both print and electronic; participates in development of library collections in assigned areas; reads reviews and other relevant materials; selects print and non-print materials and weeds assigned collection areas; initiates purchases and may assist in cataloging of library materials.

¨ Assists in the supervision of the operation of the library; attends and participates in all department and library staff meetings.

¨ Performs circulation responsibilities when needed; checks in and out library materials; processes reserved and other requests; processes interlibrary loan requests; routes items in from and out to network libraries.

¨ Monitors and maintains orderliness of library shelves and other collection locations; collects and moves books and other materials as needed.

¨ Assists patrons in locating materials in the library; assists patrons with requests for information; performs detailed research work; develops reading lists and other bibliographic materials; answers patrons’ questions via telephone, e-mail, or on-line; advises patrons in the use of computers, network terminals and other library equipment; advises patrons in the use of e-resources such as Libby, Hoopla, Kanopy, NYTimes Digital and others; advises patrons in effective search strategies; troubleshoots technology such as computers and printers.

¨ Assists in the development and implementation of library programs including lectures, readings, story hours and exhibits; participates in the selection of topics, development of publicity, promotion of event and event supervision.

¨ Participates in regional library network activities to provide input on network policies and procedures.

¨ Supervises booking of library community meeting rooms.

¨ Updates community information file.

¨ Represents the library in the community through membership in relevant community organizations, participation in their programs, provision of services to them and through other community outreach efforts.

¨ Continues education by attending professional meetings, reading professional literature, taking courses in library and library related subjects.

¨ Performs special projects and related responsibilities as initiated and requested.

¨ Performs other related duties as required, directed or as the situation dictates.

¨ Regular attendance at the workplace is required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

Supervises the activities and performance of and provides functional oversight to some part-time staff and volunteers. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with policies and applicable laws.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

¨ Master’s degree in Library Science with a minimum of one year of progressively responsible experience in library operations; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

¨ Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with adults, children and young adults; ability to deal with all members of the public in a courteous and tactful manner; ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with coworkers.

¨ Thorough working knowledge of library principles and procedures; complete familiarity with automated library systems and related applications; complete professional knowledge of reference sources and the organization and management of branch library operations; knowledge of standard office procedures, practices, forms and equipment.

¨ Ability to work with a high level of detail; extensive knowledge of current library technology, its application within a regional library, and adaptability to its frequent change; ability to prioritize multiple tasks and deal effectively with interruptions; ability to identify and analyze complex issues and to develop appropriate recommendations.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who are or become disabled as defined under the Americans With Disabilities Act, must be able to perform the physical demands (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case by case basis.

Normal office environment, not subject to extreme variations of temperature, noise, odors, etc. Majority of work is performed in a quiet work environment, with constant interruptions. Frequently subjected to the demands of other individuals and the volume and /or rapidity with which tasks must be accomplished.

Operates computer, printer, video display terminal, keyboard, calculator, telephone, copier, facsimile machine and all other standard office equipment requiring eye-hand coordination and finger dexterity. Balancing, crouching, grasping, pulling, reaching and stooping may also be required.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to do this job. The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.