Head of Reference and Adult Services, Weymouth Public Libraries, Weymouth, MA

Posted September 15, 2022

Description:

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 department head to provide professional reference and adult services. We seek an individual who is as equally dedicated to the community as to librarianship. 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. This is an exciting opportunity to lead an enthusiastic team as we continue to grow in our beautiful new building, opened just two years ago!

This position is regularly scheduled to work one evening per week and every third Saturday, with the following Friday off, when the library is open on Saturdays.

Hiring Salary Range: $54,701.97-$67,756.96/year. Note: Full salary range increases in 10 steps to $77,750. Union contract negotiations are currently in progress; salary tables may increase.

Duties:

Leads five full-time staff in providing all activities, programs, and services of the Reference Department and Teen Services.
Actively promotes and markets library programs and services to patrons and the community through outreach and publicity.
With direction and support from the Director and Assistant Director of Library Services, develops a full range of community-relevant adult programming. Responsible for adult programming from conception through planning, publicity, execution, and follow up.
Responsible for collection development in the areas of adult nonfiction and databases, as well as other areas as needed.
Responsible for leading creation of effective marketing materials across all platforms, using current graphic design tools such as Canva. Updates library website and social media as needed to promote adult programming and reference services.
Researches and writes comprehensive and persuasive grant applications to corporations, foundations, and local, state, and federal agencies.
Maintains the local history collection, focusing on preservation, security, and developing greater access for patrons using current technologies.
Assists patrons with the online public access catalog and public technology.
Meets regularly with other department heads to coordinate departmental projects and activities, and ensure consistent service across all areas of the library.
Active and influential participation expected on library network committees and/or statewide committees as needed.

Qualifications:

Master’s degree in library and information sciences from an ALA-accredited school and at least three years of professional library experience required. Supervisory experience preferred.

Thorough knowledge of library principles, practices, and current trends and resources in reference. Knowledge of and comfort with emerging library/information technology skills and trends. Broad understanding of archival practice. Experience working with an integrated library system and emerging technology. Knowledge of collection development principles and practices. Understanding of intellectual freedom as it relates to public library operations. Awareness and understanding of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Ability to work creatively, effectively, independently, and cooperatively with colleagues, patrons, and the community at large. Ability to foster open communication and cooperative relationships. Ability to troubleshoot software and hardware. Ability to communicate effectively with local media representatives as needed.

Excellent skills in supervision, interpersonal relations, and written, oral, and online communication. Excellent customer service skills required. Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills. Must have superior skills in the area of reference and reader’s/listener’s/viewer’s advisory. Must be comfortable with and have a history of public speaking and presentation experience. Familiarity, comfort, and skill with downloadable media, blogs, social networks, and website maintenance.

How to Apply:

Applications will be accepted through Wednesday, September 28, 2022. For a full job description and employment application, see the Town of Weymouth “Employment Opportunities” webpage at https://www.weymouth.ma.us/human-resources/pages/working-for-the-town-of-weymouth-employment-opportunities. Applicants interested in a position 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. A cover letter outlining your interest in, and qualifications for, the position is encouraged.