Reference Librarian, Somerville Public Library (Somerville, MA)

Posted May 6, 2026

Description

We are hiring a full-time Reference Librarian at the Somerville Public Library (MA).

We seek an enthusiastic, innovative, and flexible individual who wants to join a team committed to providing excellent library services to patrons of all ages in Somerville.

Responsibilities

Reports to the Head of the Reference Department

Staffs Reference desk, assisting patrons in using print, electronic resources, and technology, and providing exceptional and engaging reference and reader’s advisory services
Develops, selects, and maintains library collections as assigned
Works on readers advisory, displays, interlibrary loans, patron requests, grants
Promotes new and existing library collections, services, programs, and events through outreach and in-library efforts, and via print, web, and social media
Encouraged to participate in programming and internal committees
May fill in as-needed at other public service desks, including Circulation
Attends professional workshops, seminars, conferences, and continuing educational opportunities
Keeps current in trends and best practices in the library world
Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications

MLS from an ALA accredited library school, and at least two years of professional or equivalent experience
Ability to deal with the public effectively and pleasantly
Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively across all departments
Ability to perform basic troubleshooting of library technology
Experience with social media preferred
Ability to speak two or more languages a plus

Physical Skills

Little or no physical demands are required to perform the work. Work effort principally involves sitting to perform work tasks, with intermittent periods of stooping, walking, and standing. There may also be some occasional lifting of objects such as books, office equipment and computer paper (up to 30 lbs.). Job requires ability to bend, lift and carry library materials and pull book carts (up to 50lbs.)

Motor Skills

Duties are largely mental rather than physical, but the job may occasionally require minimal motor skills for activities such as moving objects, operating a telephone system, computer and/or most other office equipment, typing and/or word processing, filing, and sorting.

Visual Skills

Visual demands include constantly reading documents in print and on the computer, for general understanding and for analytical purposes.

Hours and Copensation

Hours: 40 HOURS PER WEEK, INCLUDING EVENINGS AND SATURDAYS, AND FIVE (5) HOURS OF PAID LUNCH WEEKLY.
Salary: $1,381.67 weekly, plus benefits
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Union: SMEU B

How to Apply

Visit the following address to see the full listing and apply: https://cityofsomerville.applytojob.com/apply/VDRtpN7e2x/Librarian-I-Reference

Position is open until filled. Review of resumes will begin May 18.