Young Adult Librarian (Library Supervisor / Specialist I In The Youth Services Department)

Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield's Public Library, is seeking to fill the position of Young Adult Librarian (Library Supervisor / Specialist I). The Young Adult Librarian will work as part of the Youth Services Team, under the general supervision of the Youth Services Supervisor, to meet library and departmental goals. We have a supportive Friends group that has long supported children's and young adult programming, and we want to develop and support new ideas.

Decision-making and problem solving skills, including interpretation of library policy and the exercise of independent judgment, are necessary. In-depth knowledge and ability in advanced library procedures, including research and the teaching of research skills are required. Comfort with technology and a commitment to keeping tech skills current are essential. Initiative in project planning and outreach to promote library services in the community are critical to success. Public desk staffing is routinely involved. Some clerical tasks are assigned.

This is a full-time position working thirty-five hours per week, with an anticipated schedule of 10am-6pm and some Saturday assignments.

Responsibilities

• Identifies opportunities and accepts assignments for program planning and execution, which may include budgeting, space planning, promotion, report writing and associated outreach.
• Assists in the training and supervision of subordinate staff.
• Initiates and/or manages programs to promote library services.
• May be cross-trained for grade-appropriate professional assignments in other library departments.
• Uses the library’s audio-visual, office and computer equipment and resources, and may routinely offer training to staff and/or public in its use.
• Performs complex catalog, database and internet searches.
• Applies problem solving abilities; routinely addresses complaints.
• Performs specific tasks assigned by the supervisor, including one time and ongoing projects. Other duties as assigned, including clerical and shelving tasks as required.
• Makes selections for purchase in areas of subject specialty.
• Provides public desk coverage, including assisting library patrons by answering reference questions of higher complexity; by locating and using department materials and equipment; and by maintaining public decorum.
• Coordinates and carries out the library’s programming and services for young and new adults, performing associated clerical duties.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of current trends in field of expertise (e.g., youth programming, online searching, music and arts resources, local history, genealogy, archives, etc.)
• Master's degree in Library Science. Exceptional candidates with a combination of three years of related experience and/or education will be considered.
• Comfort and skill with community building, including networking, partnership development, and cultivation of contacts in the community and with city residents.
• Ability to organize and present information to a group
• Skill in personal time management and written communication
• Knowledge of youth services and sources
• Facility with social media
• Solid understanding of integrated library systems, computing, mobile technology, and basic hardware and software for initial troubleshooting
• Ability to discern patrons’ needs and to communicate clearly when answering questions and providing information
• Skill in collecting, organizing, and analyzing numerical data
• Specialized knowledge of library operations and services, particularly technology
• Demonstrated ability to interact with general public in an urban library setting
• General knowledge of office procedures

Company Description

The City of Pittsfield is the cultural, commercial, legal, and medical center of the Berkshires – a region renowned for its wonderful people, outstanding standard of living, beautiful landscapes, and the finest in cultural and recreational attractions.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply.

We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Benefits

• Opportunities for Professional Development
• Earned Sick Leave
• Vision, Dental, and Life Insurance Options
• Retirement Savings Plans
• Foreign Language Incentive Pay
• Vacation Time
• Employee Assistance Program
• Up to 13 paid Holidays
• Free Permitted Parking
• Personal Days
• Bereavement Leave
• Berkshire Athenaeum Employees Association Collective Bargaining unit
• Health Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Direct Deposit

Application Deadline

Internal Applicants Priority Consideration ends Tuesday, April 25, 2023

All Applicants: Sunday, May 21, 2023