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Head Librarian, Information Services, Providence Public Library, Providence, RI

Posted August 18, 2017

HEAD LIBRARIAN, INFORMATION SERVICES

Providence Public Library (PPL) is pleased to announce a reorganized unit within the library — Technology and Information Services. In 2018, the Library will also begin a major transformation of most of its public service spaces, including a new technology-rich information commons, the Workshop (an open learning and collaborative space) and a merged public services desk, and is seeking to add an innovative seasoned service-oriented individual to join our leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic, high-tech learning organization and contribute to a progressive, service oriented library.

POSITION SUMMARY

This key position reports to the Director of Technology and Information Services and innovatively champions the merging of two of the library’s more traditional units (Circulation and Reference) to provide responsive and effective circulation and reference support across all aspects of Information Services operations.  The incumbent is accountable for activities related to both Circulation and Reference operations including borrower services, interlibrary loan, delivery, collection development, reference, instruction and outreach.  The incumbent supervises the delivery of point-of-need assistance to library customer and visitors, including second tier technology troubleshooting and support.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

  • Directs Information Services team in providing reference, readers/audiovisual/technology advisory and borrower services for library customers

  • Leads teams to create, coordinate and present library programs, special events and outreach for community and to provide high quality borrower services

  • Creates and maintains schedule for Information Services team in consultation with Senior Information Services Specialist

  • Works collaboratively with Education Department to present public programs and develop complementary services including the library’s new public service spaces (reference to Workshop space)

  • Coordinate department’s instructional efforts including leading and/or developing workshops, series, etc.

  • Works with internal Marketing team to create and coordinate publicity and marketing for library Information programs and events

  • Works collaboratively with Senior Information Services Specialist to coordinate department efforts in library marketing, including book display merchandising, blog posts, digital signage, website, and social media contributions, etc.

  • Develops relationships with area libraries and organizations through presentations and collaborative projects

  • Supervises Information Services team and volunteers; organizes ongoing training for both teams

  • Provides Adult reference and reader’s advisory service to library customers

  • Assists Head Curator of Collections with collection development and management projects

  • Participates fully as member of Library’s Collection Development team

  • Participates in Library’s data collection and analysis efforts

  • Participates fully as member of Library Management Team; willing to work evenings and weekends; performs related duties as required

  • Participates in professional development activities at local and state level as necessary

  • Stays current with library trends and emerging technologies

  • Spanish speaking is very desirable

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • Librarian with an MLS from a graduate library school accredited by ALA and 5 years progressively more responsible professional library experience required
  • A strong background in computers/technology, digital literacy and non-print materials formats
  • Patience, tact, and excellent communication skills
  • Enjoys learning as well as teaching
  • Ability to train and supervise library staff
  • Evidence of teaching/presentation experience and facility
  • Strong organizational talents
  • Demonstrates creativity, flexibility, and a positive attitude
  • Poise in a busy setting serving library customers and staff with high expectations
  • Excellent reference skills and ability to relate to library customers of all ages
  • Ability to exhibit good judgment and establish effective working relationships with staff, colleagues within the library system, local government personnel
  • Ability to plan and coordinate the work of others
  • Ability to exercise leadership and motivate others
  • Ability to establish effective working relationships with community organizations
  • Warm, outgoing personality

The position is best filled by an energetic, innovative individual with an ALA accredited MLS and 5 years’  library experience, with a minimum of 3 years of demonstrable supervisory experience.  Knowledge of automated library systems, reference and circulation service operations, databases, copyright law, and web development strongly preferred. Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills are essential. Interest in library trends and emerging technologies, intermediate word processing and spreadsheet abilities, and ease with technology and social media are imperative. Outstanding work ethic, strong commitment to customer-centered services and flexibility is critical. Candidates must possess the ability to work both independently and in a fast-paced team environment with diverse patrons and coworkers.

SALARY

No less than $45,000 and commensurate with appropriate experience. This is a full-time position in a business casual environment with excellent benefits.

DEADLINE FOR RESUME/COVER LETTER

September 1, 2017

RESUME, COVER LETTER and REFERENCES TO:

Human Resources
Providence Public Library
150 Empire Street
Providence, RI 02903
Email:  [email protected]

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