[CLOSED]Head of Information and Research Experience, Framingham Public Library, Framingham, MA

Posted June 3, 2021

Description:

The Framingham Public Library, a recognized leader in collaborative programming, located 20
miles west of Boston with a 53,000 sq. ft. Downtown Main Library, a 17,000 sq. ft. branch library,
plus a Bookmobile, seeks a dynamic and energetic Head of Information and Research with the
creativity, flexibility and enthusiasm to provide exceptional research and learning experiences, by
developing and delivering excellent collections, technology, and programming to Framingham’s
diverse and dynamic population.

37.5 hours/week, 2 evenings per week, alternating Fridays/Saturdays

Position Purpose
Serves as the dynamic leader of the Information and Research Experience Department for the
Framingham Public Library, the premier resource for free inquiry, creative enrichment, and
lifelong learning. Promotes and provides exemplary customer service to the vibrant and diverse
population in the city of Framingham. Exemplifies innovation, flexibility, collegiality, and
enthusiasm for all aspects of library customer service.

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.)

Has a broad array of responsibilities leading the Information and Research Experience
Department for the Framingham Public Library, and plans for and provides a warm, welcoming, and accessible patron experience for all library users. Assumes primary responsibility for all operations of research and information services system-wide.
Plans, coordinates, and supervises information and research services at the Main and Branch Library. Schedules, trains, and evaluates research and information staff in providing information services and programming for the public.
Provides expert guidance, using print and electronic resources, to patrons requesting information, thereby promoting increased use of library resources. Assists patrons in borrowing and using all library materials and accessing digital resources. Provides information on library policies and procedures.
Participates as an integral member of the Library Leadership Team, promotes and supports a culture of collaboration and best practices among all library staff. Actively contributes to the development of the Library Long Term Strategic Plan and the achievement of its goals and activities. Contributes to the development and refinement of library policies and procedures as required.
Supervise all aspects of Information and Research Experience Services, including assisting in the hiring, training, evaluating, and scheduling of employees. Promotes and provides exemplary customer service to staff and public. Supervises and trains employees in the use of the integrated library software system and to provide excellent customer service. Trains staff to protect confidentiality of patron records according to library policy and Mass General Law. Leads and mentors staff to provide a team based, customer focused and enthusiastic patron experience. Promotes professional advancement and continuing education opportunities for staff as available.
Collaborates with key staff including the Head of Community and Outreach Experience, to develop, provide, and facilitate adult instructional programming. Oversees an array of systemwide programs for the public, and effectively promotes Information and Research Experience Services. Promotes increased use of library materials through book talks, author visits, technology classes and lectures. May prepare and lead book discussions.
Oversees the selection of reference materials and manages the budget allocation for reference collection development.
Participates in writing and administering outreach, programming and community services grant proposals.
Acts as primary contact for patron concerns in Information and Research Experience Services, and responds in a positive and flexible manner. Ensures accessibility of library services for all patrons. Refers issues to Library Administration as required.
Creates attractive displays to showcase and highlight library materials for the public in all formats.
Works collaboratively with the Head of Library Technology Experience and key staff to troubleshoot and support use of library technology.
Works collaboratively with the Head of Bookmobile Experience to develop opportunities for mobile programming.
Works collaboratively with other departments to develop a flexible, adaptive staff scheduling process that ensures proper coverage and support for library activities. Fosters teamwork and partnership between departments and among library staff. Welcomes staff suggestions and initiatives.
Views change as a welcome opportunity to review, assess, and analyze library services. Freely shares innovation, cost efficiencies, and improvement suggestions with Library Administration.
Is pro-active in bringing emerging technologies and visions for improvement and implementation of information and research services to the public.
Accurately collects and maintains library statistics as required for the ARIS report or requested by Library Administration.
Participates on Library committees and working groups, including but not limited to eResources Team, Collections, Programs or Marketing teams, and Minuteman Library Network Committees.
Meets monthly with department staff. Stays current with library innovations and trends in information and research services through professional journals, professional development and networking.
Monitors safety of the library facility for employees and the public. Responds appropriately to emergencies and keeps Library Administration informed of any problematic situation.
Assumes responsibility for supervision of the Main Library as necessary.
Follows safe work practices.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervision Received: Library Director, Assistant Library Director
Supervision Given: Information and Research Services Team

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an
employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable
accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential
functions.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee
to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be
made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work is performed mostly in an office setting; hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently is required to stand and talk or hear; use hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms.
The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, or crouch.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.

Qualifications

Education, Training and Experience
Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited institution; three to five (3-5) years of
library and supervisory experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill
Knowledge:
Integrated Library Systems (ILS), Innovative Sierra preferred
Library procedures and supervisory practices, including database searching and interlibrary
loan
Microsoft Office and Google Suite
Materials selection and collection development best practices
Emerging technology trends, especially as they pertain to library information and research

Abilities and Skills:
Work under pressure, prioritize projects and department operations efficiently
Interface with the community and serve as a representative of the Library
Exhibit diplomacy, tact, flexibility, and initiative
Enthusiastically supervise, lead, and motivate staff
Learn new software and hardware quickly
Embrace change and contribute to the overall mission of the library
Research and reference skills
Leadership and supervisory skills
Exemplary customer service skills to ensure excellent patron experience
Excellent communication skills; public speaking, writing
Organization and time management skills
Familiarity with Spanish or Portuguese desirable

How to Apply:

[CLOSED]Please visit the Framingham Gov website to apply: www.framinghamma.gov/jobs

For questions, please contact Deb Hinkle at [email protected]