Library Reference Supervisor, Town of Needham Free Public Library, (Needham, MA)

Posted August 15, 2024

Job Type: Full-time, Exempt
Salary Range: $76,142-88,816

The Town of Needham is seeking a passionate, dedicated individual to fill the
full-time position of Library Reference Supervisor at the Needham Free Public
Library. Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Public Library, the Library
Reference Supervisor will plan, direct, and evaluate the library
reference/information services department at the Needham Free Public Library.
The ideal candidate will have exemplary communication skills, the ability to lead
others on the Reference team, an interest in supporting and building
programming for patrons of all ages, and a passion for serving the Needham
community.

It is an exciting time to join the Needham Free Public Library team! Our new
Strategic Plan for FY2023-2027 positions the library to continue to meet the
community’s needs for years to come. In addition, our recent Library Space
Utilization Study reimagines the library’s interior space in four phases to enhance
the work we do for our patrons and the community. Along with diverse
collections, plentiful programming, and great services, the Needham Free Public
Library is on track to be the go-to place for new and current library workers.

CON #25032

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all
inclusive):

• Direct and schedule the activities of the library’s reference/information
  services including scheduling of staff, operating procedures, and planning
  and assigning special projects to reference staff.
• Lead the creation of a robust and relevant offering of library programming
  including but not limited to library technology, art, history, culture, etc.
• Proactively ensure that library reference collections, services, and
  programming are welcoming, inclusive, and affirming for all patrons.
• Provide input to the Director on library plans, services, budgets, utilization
  of personnel, etc. and assist in developing and implementing departmental
  and library policies and procedures.
• Advise and assist patrons in selecting, locating, and utilizing library
  resource materials through knowledge of print materials, the catalog,
  electronic databases, and other related resources.
• Lead department in keeping abreast of current and emerging trends,
  promoting professional development opportunities for staff to pursue.
• Lead team in designing and creating informational materials for internal
  and external audiences about the use of library resources; communicating
  these resources via print, social media, and other media platforms.
• Engage with local media to promote the services of the Reference
  Department as needed.
• Coordinate with Technical Services Supervisor and allocated budget to
  oversee selection and purchasing for the Young Adult and Adult
  Departments. Evaluate reference collection continuously for currency and
  accuracy of information.
• Participate in the evaluation and hiring of reference staff.
  

Requirements:
To be considered for the position, applicants must have at least:

• Master’s Degree in Library Science (MLS), or currently enrolled in an MLS
  program with successful completion of Reference coursework with library
  experience considered.
• Four (4) to six (6) years in professional reference services, preferably with
  supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of library policies, procedures, systems,
  programming, and current trends in the field.
• Ability to manage scheduling for department, delegate special projects,
  and adapt to new technologies
• Ability to plan strategic programming for the department, creating and
  maintaining an inclusive and affirming environment for all.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with internal and external
  stakeholders including patrons of all ages, Library staff, other Town
  employees, and on occasion, media.

How to Apply:

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and application via our
applicant portal.

URL (copy and paste into your web browser): https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/needhamma/jobs/4621398/library-
reference-supervisor?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on August 29, 2024.

The Town of Needham is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering
an inclusive and encouraging workplace. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of
race, age, gender, national origin, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation,
marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, veteran status, or any other protected
class. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for
all with the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We welcome all applications from a
wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.

The Town of Needham will endeavor to provide reasonable accommodation to a
qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue
hardship on the operation of our business. If you believe you require such assistance to
complete this form or to participate in an interview, please contact us at
[email protected].