Youth Services Librarian, Cambridge Public Library, Cambridge, MA
Posted February 2, 2017
37.5 hours per week scheduled to meet the needs of the department. Initial schedule s Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, 9:30-6, Thursdays 11:30-8 at Collins Branch and Wednesdays 8:30-5 at the Main Library. Every 3 rd week the position works Saturday, 8:30-5 instead of Wednesday. Hours are assigned and may be changed to meet the needs of the Department and the Library. Flexibility is expected and desired.
SUMMARY: Using basic professional library techniques and skills, the Staff Librarian functions as part of the team under the general supervision of the Branch Manager. Performs circulation, programming and other relevant duties relating to branch services generally, and children’s and teen services in particular. Provides outstanding service.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provides exceptional and engaging service to the public
- Provides a full range of Borrower Services to the public
- Conducts story hours, sing-alongs, book talks, and other children’s and teen programming
- Under the guidance of the Branch Manager, assists in implementing the library collection development policy in accordance with the allocated departmental budget, selecting, merchandizing, evaluating, maintaining and weeding materials within designated sections of the children’s and teen collections
- Takes direction from the Manager of Youth Services in order to best meet the needs of children, teens, parents, guardians and others
- Prepares displays and book lists
- Assists in library instruction/orientation for children's groups and individuals
- Keeps records and prepares periodic reports of activities and statistics
- Works regularly in Main Library Youth Services Department
- Assists in public relations and outreach efforts of the branch by taking an active role in acquainting neighborhood schools and the branch community in general with available children’s services. May conduct outreach programs outside the Branch
- Uses online social media to promote and implement library services
- Serves on assigned committees
- Operates audio/visual equipment in the presentation of library programs
- May represent the Branch to the public and at meetings outside the Library
- May assume supervisory responsibility in the absence of the Branch Manager
- Any other duties required for the good of the Library
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: A master’s degree from an accredited school of library science. At least two years of experience in providing direct service to children in a public library. In exceptional instances, specialized education, training, and/or experience may be substituted for part of the educational requirement.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES: Knowledge and understanding of the library’s mission, goals, and objectives; A broad knowledge and appreciation of children’s and teen literature and media, including a thorough knowledge of classic and contemporary literature from pre-school through high school; A broad knowledge of digital and multimedia materials and electronic resources including social media and communication tool; Knowledge and experience in planning programs appropriate for the age levels and capabilities of target audiences; Knowledge of current issues and legislation affecting children and teens in the community and in society; Ability to work as a collaborative team member and maintain strong communication with all colleagues; Good communication skills, including the ability to work well and communicate constructively with both children and adults; An interest and enthusiasm for working with the public; A genuine caring and respect for children and teens; Experience working with children and teens individually and in group settings; Working knowledge of urban public library concepts and techniques; Ability to monitor a room and enforce policy as needed; Knowledge of current technology, technological trends, and operation of related equipment; Judgment, Creativity, Resourcefulness, Patience, Initiative, Enthusiasm, Maturity, Positive Outlook; Flexibility, initiative, energy, patience and tact to deal effectively with the public; Adaptability and dependability to work well in a team situation, and flexibility in staffing situations
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Physically able to operate technical equipment such as computers, scanners, printers, and mobile devices. Ability to sit and use computer workstation for extended periods of time. Strength to push or pull a loaded book cart which 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 computers and computer equipment. Time management ability to set priorities in order to meet assignment deadlines. Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities, which permits the employee to communicate effectively. Sufficient vision or other powers of observation, which permits the employee 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 which permits the employee to type and enter data. Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, which permits the employee to re-shelve library materials and work at public service desks
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, including office areas, training rooms, library locations, as needed.
RATE: $27.47 per hour to $31.50 per hour in five steps
Deadline: 2/22/17
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.