Adult Services Librarian

West Springfield Public Library

Full-time

On-site

West Springfield, Massachusetts, United States

January 9, 2025

$27.80-$27.80,Hourly

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STATEMENT OF DUTIES The position of Adult Services Librarian works under the general direction of the Adult Services Supervisor. Works to provide library services to adults and all individuals seeking assistance: Position involves assisting supervisor in meeting library and departmental goals by performing certain specific functions, typically public desk service, computer instruction and support, reference, readers advisory, programming, community activities, collection development, and promotes and publicizes the library's service and collections to the community. Performs professional library functions of a responsible nature, requiring independent judgment and initiative; assignments are completed according to established procedures and departmental policies and standards.

Supervisory Responsibility: In the absence of the Adult Services Supervisor, the Adult Services Librarian is in charge of Adult Services: may entail making on the spot decision if necessary and overseeing pages during the absence of a Supervisor. May be assigned to cover services in the Youth Services Department during staffing shortages, or as deemed necessary. May act in a supervisory role in the absence any other department supervisors 

Examples of Duties Essential Functions: The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various type of work that may be performed. 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.

  • Delivers reference and resource information to all patrons, in direct consultation, by phone, email, instant messaging or other emerging technologies.
  • Maintains a welcoming environment at the library's Information Desk. Models good customer service practices at all times. Provides referrals to other libraries, sources, agencies, etc. when necessary.
  • In consultation with the Adult Services Supervisor, may be asked to develop and conduct training sessions for the public on how to use computers, the Internet, electronic databases, and personal devices both within the library and externally.
  • Provides computer lab and Wi-Fi support, including but not limited to assisting patrons using library equipment, performing basic maintenance, and instruction on copiers and computers.
  • Responsible for basic troubleshooting of public computers and other electronic equipment used by the public while assigned to the Adult Services desk and when other staff is not available. Troubleshoots computer software (e.g. print management, reservations software) and computer connections (e.g. cable, wireless, C/W MARS) as needed to ensure satisfactory public access.
  • Assist Adult Services Supervisor to investigate and report on new technologies and software for use by patrons and staff, including potential impact on changing patron behaviors. Makes recommendations on changes to services, policies, or procedures that will better enable and encourage use of technology among library patrons. Contributes to the updating of online tools in support of information, reference, and recreational reading aims.
  • Helps patrons select library materials including various electronic resources and instructs patrons in the use thereof.
  • Participates in selecting material for the Adult collections; evaluates and recommends purchases through reviews, patron requests, and popular trends.
  • Responsible for maintenance of collection through inventory, shelf reading, and weeding of materials.
  • Under the direction of the Adult Services Supervisor, may work in conjunction with vendors and contractors as needed to maintain web based content and database access.
  • Performs Inter-Library Loan services for patron (including local/network, mediated, document delivery).
  • Attends professional library conferences, seminars, and network committees related to library operations as appropriate, keeping knowledge of library services current in order to assist with long-term departmental planning.
  • Attends and participates in staff meeting discussions as directed by the Adult Services Supervisor.
  • Participates in developing long-range and short-range goals, objectives, policies, and procedures related to adult services.
  • Works under the direction of the Adult Services Supervisor in planning and presenting programs for the public to increase interest in library offerings through press releases, flyers, social networks, blogs, and other public relations channels.
  • Under the direction of the Adult Services Supervisor creates and maintains adult collection displays and works with the Youth Services Librarian to promote intergenerational programs and displays.
  • Under the editorial supervision of the Library Director and Assistant Director, performs public relations and manages ongoing promotional materials, including social media.
  • Maintains order in the Adult Services area and also in the Youth Services area in the absence of the youth room staff.
  • May substitute for the Adult and Youth Services Supervisors as needed.
  • In the absence of the Director, Assistant Director, Adult, Youth and Technical/Borrower Services Supervisors, the Adult Services Librarian may supervise operations and security of the entire library building.
  • Assists the Adult Services Supervisor seek grants and funds to expand adult services.

Qualifications

Qualifications Education and Experience: The minimal education requirement is a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college. One year of related professional library experience. Requires experience in using computers, creating documents in Microsoft Office, familiarity with library software systems, especially Evergreen, databases and accessing the Internet. A Master's Degree in Library Science and prior demonstrated knowledge of public library operations is strongly preferred.

Skills and Knowledge:

  • Knowledge of library policies and procedures.
  • Requires demonstrated proficiency with computer including networked computers, Windows, word processing, spreadsheets, and email; automated catalogs, electronic databases, the Internet, and previous experience with an automated library circulation system. 
  • Requires knowledge of reference and information sources in all formats including search and evaluation techniques. 
  • Must possess effective communication and training techniques, demonstrates flexibility in a dynamic environment, and be at ease with interruptions.
  • Must maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and demonstrate a commitment to engage independently in continuing professional development. 
  • Must perform all aspects of job responsibilities with honesty and integrity. 
  • Ability to deal in an effective and courteous manner with members of the general public on a daily basis, and enjoy working with and possess the skills to interact with both children and adults in a professional manner.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective cooperative and positive working relationships with library staff and work cooperatively with other divisions, departments and elected or appointed officials. 
  • Ability to plan, analyze, carry out projects, consult and offer advice; requires effective communication skills. 
  • Ability to work accurately with close attention to detail in reading, writing, spelling, and performing basic math functions.
  • Must perform all aspect of job responsibilities with honesty and integrity.

Full/Part Time

Full Time

Education

BA/BS

Salary$27.80  / hour

Closing Date

1/22/2025

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through the town website at www.townofwestspringfield.org

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