INFORMATION SERVICES LIBRARIAN, Providence Public Library, (Providence RI)

Posted December 21, 2023

Every week: Mon 9-3 and Fri 10-4
Alternating: Tues 12-6 with Sat 10-4

This position reports to the Head of Information Services and is responsible for providing
responsive and effective circulation and research support across all aspects of Information
Services operations. A key role on the library’s information services team, this position is
accountable for activities related to both Circulation and Reference operations within Technology
& Information Services Department, including borrower services, interlibrary loan, collection
development, reference, instruction, and outreach. The incumbent is expected to deliver point-
of-need assistance to library customers and visitors, including technology support and
troubleshooting in a fast-paced downtown library setting.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

Effectively assist with all Information Services operations, circulation and patron database,
delivery, stacks maintenance and inventory control, information commons and study
space management, technology loans, printer management and other services.
Provide Adult reference and reader’s advisory services to library customers
Create and present library programs in partnership with the Education department,
Exhibitions & Programming, and other PPL departments and partners.
Provide effective virtual and in-person circulation and reference services using
appropriate information resources.
Assist library customers with accessing and using statewide online and digital resources
Contribute to the library’s circulating collections through the selection, analysis, upkeep,
and weeding of material in targeted areas.
Work collaboratively with Information Services team members to assess department
policies and procedures and assist with department documentation
Resolve library customer problems with patience and diplomacy and ethically handle
sensitive library customer and department information.
Participate in library marketing, including book display merchandising, blog posts, digital
signage, website and social media contributions.
Participate in Library’s data collection and analysis efforts.
Contribute to special projects, library-wide initiatives, and sponsor changes and
improvements.
Cultivate and maintain relationships with community partners, members, and
organizations.
Willing to work evenings and weekends as required.
Check email daily and respond to emails in a timely manner.
Support and practice PPL’s stated values and demonstrate and share PPL’s commitment
to being an all inclusive organization, including full participation in the implementation of
PPL’s diversity, equity, and inclusion roadmap.
Cultivate practices of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization that serves
the public and each other.
Collaborate with External Relations to ignite and activate a community of support for PPL
and to amplify the Library’s message and work.
Participate as a co-selector to contribute to the general collection, pending the approval
of both the Head of Information Services and the employee’s supervisor.
Other duties as assigned.

Additional Skills:

Excellent verbal and written skills.
Strong attention to details and strong organizational skills.
Comfortable working with various technology (i.e. Microsoft programs, Google
Docs/Drive).
Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
Interact professionally with other employees, patrons, and suppliers.
Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and
coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.

Education & Experience Required:

MLIS degree and previous library experience required.
Knowledge of automated library systems, reference & access services operations,
databases, copyright law, and web development strongly preferred.
Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills are essential.
Experience presenting workshops is essential.
Interest in library trends and emerging technologies, intermediate word processing and
spreadsheet abilities, and comfort with technology and social media are imperative.
Outstanding work ethic, strong commitment to customer-centered services and flexibility
is critical.
Candidates must possess the ability to work both independently and in a fast-paced team
environment with diverse patrons and coworkers.
Google applications (Gmail, Meet, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Forms) and other various Google
applications experience required.
Knowledge of Zoom, Google Meet, or other web-conferencing software or applications.

Additional Requirements:

Driving/Travel requirements – 0-10%

Position Location – Providence, RI

Physical requirements – ability to occasionally lift/move up to 25 lbs.

This position is:
Non-exempt due to salary requirements and is not part of the Union

Hours: 18 hours per week, nights and weekends required
Schedule:
Every week: Mon 9-3 and Fri 10-4
Alternating: Tues 12-6 with Sat 10-4
Hourly Rate: $27.47

How to Apply

Please submit cover letter and resume by January 7, 2024.
Posting Date: December 20, 2023 – open until filled

Submit Cover Letter and Resume to:
E-mail: [email protected]

The Providence Public Library
Attn: HR
150 Empire Street
Providence, RI 02903

Fax: 401-455-8002

Equal Opportunity
In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment
decisions at the Providence Public Library are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. PPL is
committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all employees and qualified
applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or medical or common conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender
expression, marital status, familial status, national origin, ancestry, age (40 and above), disability, veteran
status, military service, application for military service, genetic information, receipt of free medical care, or
any other characteristic protected under applicable law. PPL will make reasonable accommodations for
qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.