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Assistant Head Librarian (Assistant Director), Newburyport Public Library, Newburyport, MA

Description:

The Newburyport Public Library is seeking a collaborative, outgoing librarian, who enjoys and excels at customer service to be our next Assistant Head Librarian (Assistant Director). The Assistant Head Librarian assists the Head Librarian (Director) in coordinating and directing the activities of the library and oversees the work of library personnel. This position also manages all aspects of library technology. 

This position offers a wide variety of daily tasks and requires an individual capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, while navigating the unexpected interruptions that accompany public service. The successful candidate is self-motivated, level-headed, detail oriented, organized, flexible, creative, tech-savvy, and has strong verbal and written communication skills, exercises good judgment, proactively solves problems, and anticipates future needs. A sense of humor is essential. This individual should be willing to pitch in wherever needed, have an upbeat attitude, and a friendly and professional demeanor. Evening and weekend availability is required as needed for meetings, public service desk coverage, or for special engagements or events. May be required to work at any public service desk. 

About the Library: The Newburyport Public Library is located in the heart of a busy downtown waterfront community of over 18,000 residents, and ranks 5th of 36 libraries in the Merrimack Valley Library Consortium for circulation of materials. The Library is a four-floor, 38,000 square-foot building dating to 1771 with a 2001 addition. The Library employs 21 full-time and part-time, primarily AFSCME union staff. The Head Librarian and Assistant Head Librarian positions are not affiliated with the AFSCME union. The Library is well-supported by the City, Friends of the Library, Library Board, and community, and provides a variety of in-person and remote services for patrons of all ages and backgrounds. Newburyport Public Library supports ongoing professional development for staff and is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive working environment. 

Essential Functions: 

-Assists Head Librarian in planning, organization, supervision, development, and administration of library services, personnel, operations, technology, and programs. 

-Assumes responsibility for all aspects of library operations in absence of the Head Librarian and is responsible for overseeing and ensuring the safety of employees and the general public. 

-Assists Head Librarian in long-range planning, budget preparation and allocation, goal setting, policy development, and grant procurement. Maintains statistical data and creates reports. 

-Acts as community liaison and represents Newburyport Public Library in the Merrimack Valley Library Consortium. 

-Assists in selection, management, and training of all library personnel. Promotes professional development for staff and attends training seminars and workshops to maintain current knowledge of library services and technology. 

-Manages scheduling for library personnel. 

-Manages all aspects of technology, including hardware, software, networks, wi-fi, website management, technology selection and implementation, long-range technology plan, and staff training. Manages technology budget. 

-Participates in collection development. 

-Manages volunteer program. 

-Manages personnel PTO tracking and meeting room reservations. 

Qualifications

-Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited program with a Professional Certificate of Librarianship issued by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. 

-Minimum of three years progressively responsible library experience with two years supervisory experience. 

-Strong commitment to public service and recognition of the importance of every library user.

-Thorough knowledge of professional library principles, methods, practices, and materials, and the ability to analyze and to respond appropriately on behalf of the Head Librarian. 

-Ability to establish and maintain a collaborative working relationship with staff. 

-Excellent verbal and written skills, and the ability to work independently with minimum supervision. 

-Broad knowledge and experience with computer networks, integrated library systems, computer software and hardware, and library technology. 

Preferred:

-WordPress and HTML knowledge preferred. SirsiDynix Symphony ILS software experience preferred. Knowledge of municipal government and union working environments is desirable. 

Anticipated start date: July 18, 2022

Visit the City of Newburyport website for a complete posting and job description: https://www.cityofnewburyport.com/jobs

Full/Part Time

Full Time

Education

MLS/Masters

Salary Range

$64,000.00 – $68,000.00  /  year

Closing Date

06/24/2022

How to Apply:

Please send a letter of interest, current resume, and three professional references in a single PDF document to Giselle Stevens, Head Librarian: [email protected] / 978-465-4428 x222