Adult Services Librarian, Dover Public Library, Dover NH

Posted May 21, 2013

LIBRARIAN II – Adult Services Librarian

(40 hrs/week; $20.68–$29.28 per hour)

 

The Dover (NH) Public Library (http://library.dover.nh.gov) is accepting applications for an “Adult Services Librarian”. We are seeking an innovative, enthusiastic, customer-oriented professional to provide vision, leadership and expertise related to collections and services for adults.  This person will possess an exemplary knowledge of literature, popular media and culture, will oversee all aspects of the library’s main circulation department, will supervise a part-time staff of seven, and will lead developments to enhance the library’s programming and outreach services.  Position requires a multi-faceted self-starter, capable of handling multiple competing priorities while working in an often fast-paced, public service desk environment. This staff member is part of the Library’s administrative team and reports to the Library Director.

 

Dover is the fastest growing city in New Hampshire and its 5^th largest with a population of just over 30,000. Just 10 miles from the NH seacoast, Dover is about one hour away from Manchester NH, Portland ME and Boston MA. The library circulates nearly 300,000 items annually and its budget is just over $1 million.  Over 90% of Dover residents have library cards and we share an automated library system with the City’s five public school libraries.  The Dovernet Libraries have will be migrating in mid-August to a Koha-based open source ILS. We are enthusiastic proponents of social media outreach tools and currently have 1.055 followers on Facebook plus 454 on Pinterest and 489 on Twitter. Our website received over 2 million hits in 2012 and is currently undergoing a major CMS redesign. 

 

Responsibilities

• Position requires a multi-faceted self-starter with strong customer service skills, and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Capably handles multiple competing priorities while working in an often fast-paced, public service desk environment.
• Performs circulation desk duties and handles and resolves patron concerns and complaints.
• Possesses exemplary knowledge of authors, titles, genre literature, plus popular media and culture.
• Has proficiency with automated library systems, social media and content creation tools.
• Has strong verbal and written communication skills in order to interpret library policy & procedures effectively to all users; establishes strong, friendly rapport with patrons.
• Provides Readers Advisory assistance to patrons.
• Acquires all adult DVDs and music CDs and participates in other print acquisitions for adult collections.
• Schedules, trains, supervises, coaches, communicates with, and evaluates assigned library assistants at adult circulation desk plus library pages.
• Teaches patrons how to use various library technologies such as the OPAC, subscription databases, eServices, downloadable books, Internet and PCs.
• Contributes regularly to library social media platforms & website content.
• Develops monthly newsletter, library displays, and creates signage.
• Looks for ways to further promote customer-focused services; develops novel ways of packaging, sharing, and promoting library services to the general public.
• Coordinates monthly art exhibits and takes the lead in developing adult programming schedule.
• Recommends policy and procedure changes.
• Familiar with Microsoft Publisher plus other Office products and common computer applications.
• Selects and evaluates materials for weeding, replacement, repair, or withdrawal through periodic analysis of collection management reports. Tracks missing or lost materials.
• Supervises public shelving areas, maintains “extra copies” collection and storage of basement materials.
• Analyzes space needs; maintains diverse, fresh, and attractive collections in all adult areas through creative marketing.
• Monitors various library statistics and maintains records.
• Handles all patrons’ suggestions for purchase.
• Collaborates with other staff members to create a positive, welcoming environment and help maintain building discipline.
• Troubleshoots and resolves minor computer and printer issues.
• Manages Meeting Rooms’ bookings and schedules, and manages museum pass bookings, schedules and renewals.
• Participates in hiring of new circulation desk staff & pages.
• Recruits and trains all circulation volunteers.
• Conducts bi-monthly circulation meetings.
• Conducts occasional library tours.
• Proctors exams for patrons.
• Leads library bookclub(s).
• Orders needed supplies.
• Attends Friends of the Library meetings in the absence of the Library Director.
• Maintains current knowledge of relevant new technologies and library trends.

 

Knowledge, Skills and Ability Requirements

• Committed experience working with the public in a library setting.
• Experience working with an automated library system.
• Knowledge of print, database, and online information sources.
• Experience with Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and oral.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically, analyze problems, and develop and implement creative solutions.
• Experience working with, and instructing, customers with all ranges of technical expertise.
• Evidence of a high degree of initiative and versatility, a committed customer-service focus, and a desire to master new technologies.
• Working knowledge of  social media and community engagement tools including Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest, and other content creation systems.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with department heads, employees, and the public and to deal with service problems courteously and tactfully.

Education Requirements:

Master’s Degree in Library or Information Science from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited college or university; at least 1 year of professional library experience with a concentration in public services is preferred, but graduate students in an accredited MLS program in their final semester are also eligible to apply. Experience with an automated integrated library system (ILS) is essential.

 

If you are committed to collaboration and wish to join a library that believes in continual improvement and exemplary customer service, your next job may be at the Dover Public Library. To see the complete job description and download the job application, go to: http://www.dover.nh.gov/employment.htm. Responses must be received by June 20, 2013.