Librarian I (Generalist Librarian), The Russell Library, Middletown, CT
Posted July 7, 2021
Description:
The Russell Library (Middletown, CT) seeks two reliable and flexible generalists to staff all service points as needed. The Generalist Librarians’ focus is direct customer service. They create a welcoming environment by greeting patrons, initiating conversations and meeting visitors’ expressed needs. The ideal candidates have broad and deep knowledge of the resources available at Russell Library as well as in Middletown and Middlesex County; are comfortable working with all ages; can troubleshoot even unfamiliar technology; understand and commit to an equitable and inclusive approach to public librarianship.
Middletown is a vibrant, growing and wonderfully diverse community of nearly 48,000 residents, located on the Connecticut River, in the heart of the Nutmeg State. Home to two colleges and universities, a thriving downtown, a rich cultural and dining scene, and a unique combination of urban, suburban and rural life, Middletown has something to offer everyone. Founded in 1875, the Russell Library is a 501(c)(3) organization that serves as the principal public library for the City of Middletown, with a full range of services aimed at 21st-century users. Our recently-completed strategic plan sets our course for success in the coming years.
Generalist Librarians will become recognizable faces that patrons can expect to see when they visit Russell Library. They will be “on the floor” more often than not; proactively offer assistance and follow through until the expressed need is met; stay abreast of new offerings as they emerge; keep up with what is happening at Russell and promote resources, materials, services and programs through deliberate word-of-mouth. The incumbents go above and beyond to satisfy patrons, who are given such a positive experience they can’t wait to tell their friends about it. Responsibilities include:
Public Service
- Work directly with patrons of all ages at every public service point
- Connect patrons with titles they will love by devoting time, energy and expertise to readers’ advisory
- Assist patrons with all manner of technology, helping them achieve their intended purpose while teaching digital literacy in the process
- Provide individual and/or group training in how to access and utilize library resources
- May offer “roving” professional assistance at off-site events and meetings
- May exercise compassion and concern for patrons in distress by helping them access social services as appropriate and necessary
Collection Development
- Audit, select, maintain, and weed materials for assigned collection ranges
- Continually refresh knowledge of Middletown and apply that knowledge to tailor collections to this specific community
- Pay attention to bestseller lists, curated book reviews, and publishing trends for all age ranges on an ongoing basis
- Talk to patrons and colleagues about recent releases to get a sense of what people are reading/watching/listening to and contribute to a literary atmosphere at Russell Library
The successful candidates must possess strong technology skills, reference interview prowess, and a desire to work with people of all kinds and ages.
Minimum qualifications include a Master’s Degree in Library Science or a comparable relevant graduate degree and some working or internship experience in a library or other intensive customer-service environment.
35 hours per week; some evenings and weekends required. Union. Starting salary: $56,039 plus a competitive employee benefits package.
How to Apply:
Please submit a resume and cover letter to Brandie Doyle, Assistant Director of Administrative Services, at [email protected] no later than 4:00 p.m. on Friday, July 16, 2021.
Full job description here.