Head of Circulation, Weymouth Public Libraries, Weymouth, MA
Posted April 17, 2019
The Weymouth Public Libraries is in need of a proven professional and self-starting library leader interested in being a key member of a progressive, dynamic library system. We seek an innovative, collaborative, flexible, and service-oriented professional librarian to help lead the Weymouth Public Libraries.
As the Head of Circulation, a successful candidate will need to lead this critical department, develop strategies to meet changing patron needs, and ensure staff and patrons comply with current policies and procedures. Our culture of “Yes!” has resulted in a large growth in programs and services for grateful and increasingly engaged library patrons and local decision makers. Our new $33-million, 50,000-square-foot main library is scheduled to open in the summer of 2020.
Supervision
Works under the administrative direction of the Director of Library Services. Generally establishes own work plan and priorities, using and/or modifying established procedures, to complete the work in accordance with established departmental policies and standards.
Provides general supervision for all circulation department staff, including those at branch libraries, providing staff with up-to-date instructions and guidance. Ensures that circulation staff have an understanding of, and are compliant with, library policies and procedures. Has access to confidential information regarding patron records and personnel issues.
Job Environment
Work is performed under typical office and library conditions. The work environment is moderately quiet. Daily contact with library patrons requiring excellent customer services skills. Some contact with other town departments, vendors, and other library organizations by phone, in person, and in writing.
Essential Functions
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
- Oversees the daily operations of the circulation department, including the library’s busiest public service desk.
- Keeps abreast of current and emerging library trends and ensures effective training of staff as appropriate
- Ensures the department runs smoothly and efficiently by assigning daily and weekly work assignments or long-term projects to all circulation staff, including branch library staff.
- Advises Director of Library Services on circulation policies and procedures, offers creative solutions and suggestions to keep the library on the cutting edge of equal access, community involvement, and patron satisfaction with direct daily library services.
- Assists in the creation of the Long-Range Plan, Annual Action Plan, and other strategic planning.
- Oversees the successful management of the Museum pass program including implementing strategies to increase circulation and expand program where possible.
- Meets regularly with other department heads to coordinate departmental projects and activities, and ensure consistent service across all areas of the library.
- Assists in growth of our Library of Things by advising on best practices for circulation.
- Creates and distributes circulation reports generated by the integrated library system to run the department efficiently. Occasionally works with OCLN Central Site staff on more complex reporting.
- Acts as the liaison to the Massachusetts Library System in regards to the daily delivery, troubleshooting when necessary.
- Mediates and resolves escalated patron issues with the goal of maintaining excellent public service.
- Provides reference services and covers the reference desk as needed.
- Keeps up to date on current technology and digital collections and services offered by the library in order to assist patrons with computers and devices.
- Collaborates with other library departments and seeks to grow our opportunities for community outreach.
- Advises on social media and public relations.
- Assists other departments in grant implementation as needed.
- Oversees circulation department’s involvement in the conception, creation, and maintenance of displays at all libraries in order to promote collections, programs and services.
- Understands the importance of professional development and participates on OCLN committees, attends workshops, and seeks to be a library leader in the region.
- Other duties as assigned.
Required Minimum Qualifications
- Education and Experience Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited school required.
- Three years library and/or management experience preferred.
- Prior experience in a circulation department and/or with SirsiDynix ILS is a plus.
Knowledge, Ability, and Skill
- Strong understanding of public library operations and procedures, including integrated library systems.
- Working knowledge of reference services and current technology.
- A strong public service commitment.
- Ability to train and direct the work of subordinates.
- Ability to meet and deal with people appropriately and effectively.
- Ability to initiate ideas and projects.
- Ability to communicate well both orally and in writing.
- Ability to operate a keyboard, computer, telephone and standard office equipment.
- Ability to move between tasks with patience, flexibility and ease.
- Strong computer skills.
- Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
Physical Requirements
- Light physical effort required in carrying and shelving books, and in performing other typical library functions.
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and climbing.
- Ability to operate a keyboard at an efficient speed.
- Frequently required to sit and talk or hear, use hands to finger, handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with arms and hands.
- The employee may occasionally lift and/or move items weighing up to 30 pounds.
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.
Salary
Salary starts at $52,055.99 and increases over nine steps to $73,988.26
Closing Date
04/30/2019
How to Apply
The first step in applying for a job with the Town of Weymouth is to fill out a job application. All successful applicants must have an official Town of Weymouth job application form on file regardless of the position for which they are applying. The job application form can be found at https://www.weymouth.ma.us/human-resources/pages/employment-opportunities. Applicants interested in applying can send their resume and application either by fax to 781-682-3561, by email to [email protected], or by mail or in person to Human Resources, 182 Green Street, N. Weymouth, MA 02191. Questions can be directed to Human Resources at 781-340-5010