Bookmobile Librarian

Immediate opening.  CDL license is not required. 

The Stevens Memorial Library’s custom-built Mercedes Sprinter bookmobile arrives shortly. Join us as the first Bookmobile Librarian and help develop it into an essential part of the community.

POSITION SUMMARY: The Bookmobile & Outreach Services Librarian is responsible for bringing the Library into the community via bookmobile and community events, engaging and educating individuals and community groups about all the Library offers. This position’s primary responsibility is the management and overall operation of the Library’s bookmobile service as an outreach service.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all of the following essential functions.  These examples do not include all of the duties which the employee may be expected to perform.  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodations. •    Operates a vehicle that contains a library collection that travels to different sites for patron usage. Conducts pre-trip inspection of the vehicle at the beginning of the route and post-trip inspection of the vehicle at the end of the route to ensure that the vehicle is operational and functioning properly. Promptly reports all maintenance concerns to the Director.   •    Develops a calendar of visits and conducts regularly scheduled visits for bookmobile to sites across the Town of North Andover, including those serving children, seniors and underserved populations throughout the Town such as schools, parks, playgrounds, senior housing, assisted living communities and community centers. May participate in special community events such as annual Sheepshearing Day or National Night Out. Coordinates off-site programs and partnerships with local organizations and institutions. Works collaboratively with ancillary Library groups, Town departments, community leaders, agencies, non-profits, and groups. •    Promotes and publicizes bookmobile services, new and existing Library resources and services in person and through print, web and other media, creating marketing materials using desktop publishing software, email marketing software, graphic design applications, etc.  Maintains the bookmobile’s online presence, including its calendar. •    Performs public speaking to diverse audiences at off-site programs and events. •    Performs collection development for bookmobile, working closely with other Stevens Service Librarians to identify and select materials appropriate to the location and the demographics of bookmobile visits. •    Provides routine Library services at a bookmobile stop: circulate materials, handle returns and overdue problems, process library card applications, provide reader’s advisory and answers questions. Maintains bookmobile circulation and other statistical records. •    Provides effective and efficient customer service by assisting patrons at bookmobile visits. Supports, adapts, or delivers services in a manner which ensures understanding and inclusion of diverse client populations. Demonstrates sensitivity, understanding and respect of all Town residents, employees, and visitors. •    Loads and unloads book trucks on the outreach vehicle and drives vehicle to outreach facilities. •    Demonstrates a high level of independent judgement and discretion in carrying out job responsibilities. •    Follows safe work practices and adheres to policies, procedures, and ordinances that have been adopted by the Town and the Library. •    Writes reports and memos •    Participates in professional development through professional memberships, attending conferences, workshops, and other activities. Is conversant and interested in emerging library technology and services and their real-world application for staff and patrons. •    During seasonal weather or other circumstances may be assigned to perform other outreach services and/or work within the Library building. •    Performs related duties as assigned

Required Education, Training, and Experience: MLS / MLIS from an ALA-accredited library school required supplemented by at least two years library service experience in a supervisory role preferred. Bookmobile experience desirable. Must possess valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving history. Will be subject to annual driving record reviews conducted by the Town at the Town’s expense. Experience in community outreach programs and literacy programs and excellent public speaking, and public relations skills are preferred.

Knowledge of: •    Current principles and practices of public library service including, customer service, reader advisory services, collection management practice, knowledge of reference and information resources, print and electronic resources. •    Automated library systems and programs and other office applications such as word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation applications. •    Principles and practices of management and supervision. •    Current and emerging trends in library technology, equipment, and applications.

Skilled in: •    Working effectively with all bookmobile visitors to create a welcoming environment. Listening to visitors needs and identifying resources. •    Exercising good judgement, initiative, and resourcefulness in dealing with the public during bookmobile visits. •    Planning for and delegating work to staff and volunteers to ensure the goals and objectives of the Library are met. •    Monitoring assigned budget, adhering to budget guidelines and practices and planning for expenses accordingly. •    Working collaboratively with external organizations or community partners to achieve common goals. •    Additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, or other languages present in North Andover.

Ability to:

•    Drive and maintain the Library bookmobile van. •    Learn and maintain specialized knowledge related to bookmobile services. •    Maintain a high degree of flexibility and ability to multi-task in order to meet the varying needs while operating a mobile branch library. •    Work specialized schedule as needed to meet operational needs of a bookmobile. •    Independently organize and prioritize work assignments including planning and assigning work to others. •    Establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, residents, community organizations, vendors, and the general public. •    Communicate clearly and effectively verbally and in writing. •    Instruct patrons on the use of print and electronic resources.

Special Requirements/Licenses:

Must possess valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving history. (Operation of the bookmobile does not require a Commercial Driver's License - CDL).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The employee drives the bookmobile on a daily basis traveling from the Library to the various stops scheduled. Therefore, the environment involves various and unpredictable driving conditions that may be affected by weather, other drivers, potential traffic hazards and changing road conditions.  Vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Physical dexterity is required in the frequent use of hand-to-eye coordination and manipulative skills using fingers, limbs and body in the operation of vehicles. Work requires sitting for periods of time in a confined vehicle. General movement includes ability to stand, walk, sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch; and talk or hear. The employee must be able to operate all aspects of the bookmobile van, including a wheelchair lift to load and unload book carts up to 150 lbs. Able to operate all standard office equipment such as computers, copiers, scanners, printers, telephones. 

Full time (37.5 hr/week) with excellent benefits

Starting salary: $33.31 per hour (Grade 7 - Step 1), Town and AFSCME Local 2978 Professional Librarians CBA

Selections shall be made on the basis of qualifications, ability, and dependability. Formal application, rating of education and experience, oral interview, reference check, and job-related tests may be required.

All applicants are required to submit a completed Town of North Andover Employment Application along with a resume and cover letter to: [email protected], or by mail or hand delivery to Human Resources Department, Town of North Andover, 120 Main Street, North Andover, MA 01845. Resumes may be attached to the employment application but may not serve as a substitute for completing the required employment application. The Employment Application may be obtained on the Town’s website https://adt.ourdqf.com/north-andover-town-of/apply/ or by visiting the Human Resources Department, or by calling (978) 688-9526.  

Closing date 12/31/2024