Branch Head, New Bedford Free Public Library, New Bedford, MA
Posted June 9, 2016
FUNCTION: Plans and administers the activities of a branch library according to New Bedford Free Public Library policies and procedures.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Works under the supervision of the Library Director and Head of Branches, Librarian III.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Exercises supervision over branch personnel, including evaluation of staff performance and identification of staff training needs.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASSIFICATION: The classification of the position of Librarian II is distinguished from Librarian I by the administrative duties performed in managing a branch or department. Typical positions in this class include Branch Librarians and Library Department Managers. Emphasis in this classification is placed on development, supervision, training and evaluation of programs.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Performs a variety of supervisory, administrative and technical duties in planning, organizing, evaluating, and directing public library services for a branch in a system of a main library, four branch libraries, and bookmobile.
- Manages and coordinates the implementation of strategic plans; promotes change necessary to meet the demands and interests of a multi-ethnic patronage; implements action plans to carry out designed strategies; recommends and implements policies and procedures upon approval.
- Oversees the ongoing operations of the branch; resolves conflicts and manages problem-solving procedures for public/patron, individual and team; evaluates information and data needed to make effective decisions; determines priorities affecting the allocation of resources, including budget, personnel, and facilities; prepares monthly reports apprising administration of activity and progress.
- Includes direct operation of an online system (SirsiDynix) for circulation and cataloging activities; has knowledge of current and emergent technology; provides general reference services to patrons, including library instruction, reader’s advisory, book talks, workshops for computer literacy, and programming to support the Library’s mission statement.
- Trains, schedules, assigns and supervises the workflow of five to seven employees for effective public service; interprets the Library’s policies and procedures for staff.
- Maintains awareness of current library trends and developments; plans branch programs and activities accordingly, selects branch materials according to the community’s information, recreation and education needs within the New Bedford Free Public Library Collection Development Policy; oversees the book inventory, supplies and materials budget for the branch.
- Works in collaboration with the Head of Branches and fellow Branch Managers on outreach to schools; conducts library orientations for visiting classes. Works in the best interest of the library system by collaborating with other managers as needed, with the clear understanding that all library departments work together as multiple parts of one unit.
- Maintains good public relations with the community and promotes the use of the branch library by residents through community outreach, effective communication with community groups, organizations and individuals.
- Monitors physical plant, initiates maintenance and repair as necessary with the Department of Facilities & Fleet Management to insure proper cleaning and maintenance of the building and grounds; alerts administration to major problems.
- Assumes responsibility for opening and closing the branch, including the proper use of the monitored intruder and video security system.
- Submits monthly and annual reports, goals and objectives and performance measures, according to specified schedules.
QUALIFICATIONS: Possession of a Master’s of a Library Science degree from an ALA-
accredited school with related library supervisory experience, and experience in computer application. Individual must be certified by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners or be eligible to obtain certification. Ability to speak Portuguese desirable.
SELECTION GUIDELINES: Formal application; rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job-related tests may be required.
http://www.newbedford-ma.gov/