Head of Reference, Concord Public Library, Concord, MA

Posted February 23, 2015

General Summary:

Under the general supervision of the Library Director or his/her designee, performs highly responsible administrative, supervisory and direct service work in managing the reference department operations and staff. Responsible for maintaining and improving upon the efficiency and effectiveness of all areas under his/her direction and control. Performs varied and responsible duties requiring a thorough knowledge of departmental operations and the exercise of judgment and initiative in completing tasks, particularly in situations not clearly defined by precedent or established procedures. Incumbent is called upon to handle a significant amount of detail, each varying from the other in substance and content, requiring incumbent to approach workload with flexibility.

Essential Job Functions:

External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who become disabled as defined under the Americans With Disabilities Act, must be able to perform the essential job functions (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case by case basis.

• Supervises all operations of the Reference Department, promotes and delivers exceptional customer service, and develops and implements related policies, procedures, and scheduling. Supervises all Department programs, including program design, selection and implementation.
• Supervises all Reference staff and departmental volunteers and ensures all duties are performed in compliance with established policies and procedures. Coordinates training and scheduling for all Reference staff. 
• Researches and purchases the library reference collection, including electronic and print resources. Develops the fiction, large print, and paperback collections, and some areas of non-fiction; reads reviews and other relevant materials; selects print and non-print materials; initiates purchases and may assist in cataloging of library materials.
• Oversees budget in assigned collection areas, including electronic media. Continually monitors expenses to ensure compliance with budget.
• Assists in the development and oversight of annual collection priorities for circulating and digital materials. Leads departmental and book selectors meetings. Leads staff in reader’s advisory services, including training, website development, displays and booklists.
• In cooperation with other department heads, reviews and develops policies and procedures for overall library operation to recommend to the Director.
• Resolves conflicts between staff and other personnel issues. Resolves any patron concerns requiring a supervisor’s intervention. Notifies Library Director of personnel and patron issues accordingly. 
• Assesses programming needs and develops, delivers, and promotes relevant adult programs and services, including development and creation of pamphlets and press releases. 
• Participates in the Minuteman Library Network meetings, task forces, and trainings. May represent the Concord Free Public Library at committee or other professional meetings. 
• Represents the library in the community through involvement in relevant community organizations, participation in their programs, provision of services to them, and through other community outreach efforts. Fosters library use within Concord Public Schools and collaborates with Youth Services librarians on programs.
• Continues education by attending professional meetings, reading professional literature, taking courses in library related subjects.
• Performs special projects and related responsibilities as initiated and requested.
• Performs other related duties as required, directed or as the situation dictates.
• Regular attendance at the workplace is required.

Supervisory Responsibility:

Supervises the activities and performance of and provides functional oversight to six Staff Librarians and over twenty volunteers per year. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing and training employees; planning, assigning and directing work; scheduling; appraising performance; addressing complaints and resolving problems; and making recommendations to the Library Director concerning employee hiring, rewards or discipline.

Full Salary Range: $56,419 – $85,105

Application Process:

Please visit the Town’s web site and click on “Job Opportunities,” or call 978-318-3026, to obtain the required application form and additional information. Emailed resumes are not accepted.

Questions regarding this hiring process should be addressed to the:

Concord Human Resources Department
Town House, 22 Monument Square, P.O. Box 535, Concord, MA 01742
978-318-3025
www.concordma.gov/hr
EOE