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Emerging Technologies/Adult Services Librarian, Cambridge Public Library, Cambridge, MA

Posted February 2, 2017

37.5 hours per week scheduled to meet the needs of the department. Schedule will include at least one evening and a Saturday rotation. Hours are assigned and may be changed to meet the needs of the Department and the Library. Flexibility is expected and desired.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Provides outstanding information and reader’s advisory services in a busy urban public library.  Works at the Q & A Desk, the Research Desk and in the Information Commons.  Introduces new and emerging technologies to users, integrating them to information literacy and library instruction. Provides proactive, friendly, and valuable service to the public.

Public Services:

  • Provides professional Reference / Readers’ Advisory service to the public in person, on the telephone, and by electronic means 
  • Interviews patrons to determine information needs
  • Actively participates in collection development, selecting, weeding and replacing
  • Keeps current with appropriate review media, resources, popular materials, and bestseller lists
  • Actively develops displays and merchandizes the collections
  • Contributes material to the library’s web page and social media
  • Compiles book lists, and other educational and public relations materials such as e-sources
  • Assists with instructing patrons on current and emerging technologies
  • Stays abreast of library policies and procedures
  • Enforces library rules of behavior; takes appropriate action in case of misbehavior

Emerging Technologies:

  • Assists with instructing patrons and staff on current and emerging technologies
  • Uses apps, website development, blogs, social media, and screen capture software
  • Contributes to and participates in the development of the library’s online and mobile presence
  • Creates e-tutorials and content for the library
  • Participates in outreach and develops partnerships
  • Creates curriculum and teaches classes and workshops for patrons
  • Any other duties required for the good of the department and the Library

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

A bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university and a master’s degree from an ALA accredited school of library science are required. Prefer a minimum of two years of professional work with strong experience in public library adult services. At least one year of experience working with emerging technologies strongly preferred. In exceptional instances, specialized education, training, and/or experience may be substituted for part of the educational requirement.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  • Outstanding customer service skills
  • Working knowledge of basic public library concepts
  • Strong knowledge of adult services, databases in various subjects, and general resources
  • Experience integrating new technology into Library instruction/services
  • Comfort presenting in front of a group
  • A broad knowledge and appreciation of popular literature and genres
  • Excellent skills and comfort with computer technology and current technological trends
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Adaptability and dependability to work well in a team situation
  • Genuine interest in helping people to locate information and materials
  • Ability and genuine interest in working effectively with a diverse population
  • Ability and desire to serve the public with friendliness, tact and diplomacy
  • Ability to work with enthusiasm and initiative and a willingness to work harmoniously
  • Knowledge and understanding of the library’s mission, goals, and objectives
  • Ability to learn and enforce the library’s policies and procedures
  • Experience working in a makerspace or learning lab is a plus
  • Software development and coding skills are a plus
  • Ability to contribute positively to the culture of the Cambridge Public Library

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment; Ability to sit and use computer workstation for extended periods of time; strength to push or pull a loaded book cartwhich can weigh in excess of 100 pounds on level floor and up ramp, to lift or maneuver onto cart loads of up to 50 pounds, and to carry cartons of books or other materials or equipment. Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing which permits the employee to communicate effectively. Sufficient vision to read books and patron requests, as well as to see what patrons are doing when they are at some distance from the workstation. Sufficient manual dexterity, personal mobility and physical reflexes. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Normal office exposure to noise, stress and interruptions; Attends and participates in continuing educational programs designed to keep abreast of changes; Works in assigned areas, as needed.

RATE: $27.47 per hour to $31.50 per hour in five steps

DEADLINE 2/9/2017

APPLICATION PROCEDURE applicants submit both your resume and letter of interest by 5pm on the closing date via email to:[email protected] or to Personnel Dept, Room 309, City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge MA 02139. Fax 617-349- 4312.

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