Floater Librarian (3 positions), Boston Public Library, Boston, MA

Posted July 13, 2016

Available positions: 1 full-time; 2 part-time (18 hrs/week)

Basic Function:

Under supervision, and within the framework of Library policies and practices, participates in services including reference services, to a diverse population characteristic of an urban setting, at various locations in Central or branch libraries as assigned. Also includes the performance of various tasks requiring broad professional knowledge of literature, bibliographic sources and principles of information delivery and services.

Reports to: Assistant Neighborhood Services Manager, Manager of Reference & Instruction Services or designee

Home location: Central Library or branch as designated

Assigned location: To be determined as needed by designated public services manager in consultation with other public services managers. While at assigned location shall report to Department Head, Branch Librarian, or ranking staff member.

Supervises: As assigned, pre-professional and/or support staff

Typical duties and responsibilities:

Under supervision performs the following:

1. Provides reference service to the public by responding to requests for information made in person, by telephone, by fax, email, mail, or over the Internet and answering such requests by using informational resources in all formats, including print, electronic, microform and others.
2. Provides service to adults, young adults and children as assigned through personal consultations, readers’ advisory services, outreach and programs.
3. Assists patrons by instructing them in the use of information resources and by identifying appropriate resources, whether owned by the Library or elsewhere.
4. Assists in the selection of materials.
5. Promotes the use of Library resources by developing bibliographies, preparing written descriptions, organizing programs, mounting exhibits, and conducting instructional sessions.
6. Actively participates in system-wide committees; recommends and/or plans improvements in library services.
7. Continuously expands professional knowledge of the Library’s resources and other relevant sources in order to assist library patrons efficiently and effectively.
8. Commits to keeping current in the best practices of the profession by taking advantage of training and development activities, by reading professional literature, and by participating in professional activities.
9. Performs other related and/or comparable duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university and a master’s degree in library science from an accredited library school. In exceptional instances, specialized education, training and/or experience may be substituted for part or all of the educational requirements.
• Broad subject knowledge and competency in world languages desirable; knowledge of popular literature, basic bibliographic tools and sources; knowledge of excellent reference techniques; strong commitment to public services; illingness to assume responsibility and carry out assignments independently; good oral and written communication skills; ability to work well with staff and public; initiative; dependability; good professional judgment; tact; flexibility; courtesy.

Apply: Send a cover letter and a resume to Gianna Gifford, Chief of Adult Services, at [email protected].