Head of Technical Services, Forbes Library, Northampton, MA

Posted March 23, 2023

Description:

Be a part of the Leadership Team managing a superbly dedicated and hard-working staff in our busy and
well-loved library. Forbes Library ranks in the top ten (for our population group) statewide for annual
circulation — and we’re fine free! The Head of Technical Services embraces and uplifts Forbes Library’s
values:
● Welcoming – we offer an inclusive space that builds community and belonging
● Inspiring – we foster curiosity, creativity, fun, and lifelong learning
● Equitable – we ensure that the library is accessible and free for all
Forbes Library values diversity in backgrounds and experiences, and is committed to an empathetic and
supportive work environment. We are deliberate and self-reflective about the team we are building,
and value professionals who care deeply about supporting the growth of all library employees. We are
looking for an enthusiastic, patron-focused librarian who displays a genuine interest in technology; who
enjoys completing tasks with precision and has an eye for detail; who has great communication skills;
and is excited about creating efficiencies within the Technical Services department.
The goal of this position is to supervise the acquisition, classification, cataloging and processing of all
materials acquired by the library. The Head of Technical Services ensures that materials are available to
patrons in a timely manner by working with staff to acquire, classify and enter materials into our ILS.

Position Title: Head of Technical Services
Supervisors: Library Director and Assistant Director
Salary and benefits:
● Grade 11 (starting $48,500-$52,000) 37.5 hrs/week including a
minimum of one evening per week and one Saturday per month
● Benefits including pension, health and dental insurance, and paid
time off including vacation, personal, and sick time
Be a part of the Leadership Team managing a superbly dedicated and hard-working staff in our busy and
well-loved library. Forbes Library ranks in the top ten (for our population group) statewide for annual
circulation — and we’re fine free! The Head of Technical Services embraces and uplifts Forbes Library’s
values:
● Welcoming – we offer an inclusive space that builds community and belonging
● Inspiring – we foster curiosity, creativity, fun, and lifelong learning
● Equitable – we ensure that the library is accessible and free for all
Forbes Library values diversity in backgrounds and experiences, and is committed to an empathetic and
supportive work environment. We are deliberate and self-reflective about the team we are building,
and value professionals who care deeply about supporting the growth of all library employees. We are
looking for an enthusiastic, patron-focused librarian who displays a genuine interest in technology; who
enjoys completing tasks with precision and has an eye for detail; who has great communication skills;
and is excited about creating efficiencies within the Technical Services department.
The goal of this position is to supervise the acquisition, classification, cataloging and processing of all
materials acquired by the library. The Head of Technical Services ensures that materials are available to
patrons in a timely manner by working with staff to acquire, classify and enter materials into our ILS.

Essential Functions:

May include, but are not limited to:
● Member of the Leadership Team which recommends policies and budgets to the Library’s board
● Train, supervise and manage staffing for the department, which includes three staff members
(1.8 FTE)
● Leads the department in modernizing and streamlining workflows using current technology.
Analyzes departmental services and activities, implementing changes as needed. Initiates new
projects, in collaboration with colleagues.
● Cataloging and classification using the Cutter Classification System and the Evergreen ILS.
Provides cataloging expertise, communicating effectively with Technical Services and other
Library staff about cataloging policies, procedures and practices. Solves cataloging problems, and
provides original cataloging. Works closely with other staff to represent digital collections and
resources in the public catalog.
● Responsible for database maintenance and for cataloging all materials, including rare books,
special collection items (including digital) and media
● Supervise the acquisition of materials, including ordering and receiving of items
● Liaises with CW MARS as the CW MARS Coordinator
● Responsible for collecting, analyzing and distributing statistical data

● Responsible for collection management, including managing the circulating materials budget and
creating displays
● Provide direct customer service during weekly public desk shifts, including research assistance,
technology support and instruction, and readers’ advisory services
● Contributing member to library committees and working groups
● Engage community members through outreach, networking, and social media
● A commitment to learning and growing
● Grant writing and management
● Other duties as assigned

Job Requirements:

Minimal:

MLS and three years’ experience working in Technical Services, and minimum two years’ supervisory
experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Creativity and self-motivation,
independent thinking and initiative, strong communication skills and flexibility and adaptability to
change. Knowledge of and interest in technology and standard cataloging processes and formats.
Preferred:
● Bilingual with fluency in one of the following languages: Spanish/French/Arabic/ASL
● Experience working with bibliographic databases in an Integrated Library System
● Knowledge of RDA, LCSH, and MARC standards
● Ability to read cursive
Level of exertion from state definition: Light – Walking or standing frequently, using physical controls
while sitting or driving, or working at a production rate pace with lighter materials. Exerting up to 20
pounds of force occasionally; or up to 10 pounds of force frequently. Ability to work around dust,
mold, adhesives and other potential allergens.

To Apply:

A first review of applications will begin April 12, 2023
To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to Lisa
Downing, Library Director, via email [email protected].