Reference Supervisor

Job Summary:  Oversee the Reference Department to see that work is completed efficiently and accurately. Keep the department up to date on current processes and procedures. Provide customer service by aiding patrons in finding materials and information and showing patrons how to use library equipment. Order and maintain a balanced collection of materials for the interests and needs of our community. Act as person in charge when director is out of the building, according to the chain of command.

Essential Functions:

• Greet visitors to the library and maintain a welcoming environment.

• Listen to patrons; provide friendly, patient assistance to them in finding what they are seeking. 

• Hire, train, supervise, review, and discipline staff.

• Devise staff work schedule.

• Prepare reports and statistics.

• Provide clearly written procedures for staff.

• Hold monthly staff meetings or as needed.

• Attend monthly meetings with fellow supervisors and library director.

• Notarize documents following Illinois law and Galesburg Public Library policy.

• Monitor public computers and provide instruction, assistance and troubleshooting.

• Select and deselect materials for the collection; maintain the collection.

• Reserve/order materials for patrons including interlibrary loan requests.

• Plan, schedule and promote library programming for adults, young adults and families.

• Provide backup IT support in the absence of or in assistance to the network administrator.

• Write press releases and articles for local media. 

• Promote library services via radio spots, the newsletter, social media and website.

• Promote library services to the community through genre lists, displays, flyers, and other special projects.

• Apply for grants and manage successful grant applications.

• Keep current by reading journals and library related social media, attending meetings and conferences, and earning continuing education hours.

• Maintain positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner which promotes good working relationships with staff.

• Follow library policies and procedures.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• MLS, library experience required.

• Supervisory experience required.

• Familiar with computer networking and software. Strong computer skills.

• Excellent customer service skills.

• Good communication skills, both oral and written. 

• Good time management skills; self-motivated. 

• Patience and understanding. Calm and clear thinking.

• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with patrons and staff.

• Ability to comprehend patron needs quickly and accurately.

• Strong reference and reader’s advisory skills.

• Strong knowledge of research tools, including reference materials, databases, and online catalogs.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

• Able to shelve books 18 inches from the ground and six feet above ground.
• Able to transport heavy book carts, lightweight materials, and light furniture.

How to Apply

Send a resume, cover letter, and three references to [email protected] or to Noelle Thompson, 264 W Main St, Galesburg, IL, 61401.

Application Contact

Noelle Thompson

[email protected]

Apply To

Galesburg Public Library 264 W Main St Galesburg, IL 61401-4515