Library Associate – Digital Services, Shrewsbury Public Library, Shrewsbury, MA

Posted March 15, 2022

Description:

The Shrewsbury Public Library is seeking to fill the position of a full-time Library Associate – Digital Services. Under general direction of the Assistant Library Director, the Digital Services Librarian is responsible for providing technology training and support services to the public. They will also be responsible for all aspects of the library’s digital resources, such as managing the purchasing, licensing/negotiation, assessment, and archiving of all electronic materials; responsible for leading library-wide efforts to optimize technologies designed to help publicize the library’s e-resources and services, and for providing user-centric services for information access and discovery for library staff and library users.

Supervision
Work is performed under the general direction of the Assistant Director/Head of Adult Services. Provides situational supervision to Technology Specialist, assigning tasks as needed to support public technology functions.

Performs responsible library duties requiring complex technology skills, independent judgment and initiative; assignments are completed according to established procedures and departmental policies and standards; unusual or difficult situations are referred to the supervisor.

Supervisory Responsibilities
Supervises volunteers and contract workers. Supervises library on assigned weekends and evenings.

Essential Job Functions
● Installs, configures, maintains and troubleshoots electronic equipment and systems, including computers, digital projectors, cameras, printers, scanners, barcode readers, tablets, etc.
● Diagnoses hardware and software problems and implements solutions.
● Manages the Local Area Network. Administers security software and systems on all public and staff computers.
● Provides support for library staff applications: Evergreen or similar integrated library systems, G-Suite and other email software, MS Office suite, and Adobe Creative Suite CS4.
● Provides staff and patron support for a variety of web-based applications and proprietary reference databases. Maintains records of equipment inventory, maintenance and repairs.
● Evaluates and recommends acquisition of electronic resources, equipment and software. Arranges for service work in coordination with Library Director.

● Makes recommendations to Library Director for technology development as part of overall budget plan. Develops and implements technology training programs and documentation for library staff and patrons. Responds to questions from library patrons and staff with informed advice on technology issues.
● Manages publication of library newsletter, including all aspects of production, processing and bulk mailing. Designs and produces other library publications including flyers and advertisements for programs from all library departments.
● Manages online reference database subscriptions and other electronic services.
● Organizes content for library portion of town web site, communicating regularly with town web manager. Familiarity with HTML is required.
● Develops and implements technology training programs and documentation for library staff and patrons.
● Plans and maintains a Library Makerspace.
● Serves as Library Coordinator to the Central/Western Massachusetts Automated Resource Sharing (CW MARS) network.
● Keeps abreast of library technology developments and their potential impact on library service. May assist with adult programming.
● Assists at circulation and reference desk on a regular basis. Maintains the library’s presence on a variety of social media outlets.
● Assists with a collection of circulating e-readers and devices.

PREPARATION, SKILL, KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES
Education and Experience
ALA accredited Masters of Library and Information Sciences degree; at least two years experience and skills in technology systems and equipment; experience with PC, tablet and LAN maintenance and troubleshooting; experience with web design and desktop publishing; experience with basic library operations and reference services, including e-books and other library downloadable content; experience with the online library environment, specifically Evergreen, preferred. Experience with basic network administration and network cabling preferred. Experience with social media marketing required.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill
Thorough knowledge of professional library methods. Ability to work independently, prioritize, adapt quickly to changing environments, meet established deadlines and embrace changing technologies. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required. Demonstrated commitment to excellence in public service and enthusiasm for working with people of all ages.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Moderate physical effort is required to perform most duties. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, speak, hear, and use hands to operate equipment. Ability to move and lift materials up to 50 pounds. Vision requirements include the ability to read routine documents and use a computer. May be required to stand for extended periods of time.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to do this job. The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

COMPENSATION AND SCHEDULE
This is a Library Associate position, with an hourly salary range: $26.57 – $27.24 and includes benefits. This full-time 37.5 hour position includes a work schedule of one night per week and Saturdays on a rotating basis. The Town of Shrewsbury offers a comprehensive health insurance plan, and a defined benefit pension plan and is an affirmative action, Equal Opportunity Employer.

How to apply:

Send resume and cover letter to Library Director, Priya Rathnam at [email protected]. Position open until filled, but applications received by Monday, April 30, 2022 will receive primary consideration.