Branch Library Desk Supervisor, The Farmington Libraries, (Farmington, CT)

Posted June 9, 2026

Job Description:

The Farmington Libraries are seeking an enthusiastic, tech savvy, and community-minded Branch Library Desk Supervisor to join the Barney Library team, located at 71 Main Street in Farmington, CT. The Branch Desk Supervisor works under the direction of the Assistant Director of Public Services and Outreach in support of the daily operations of the Barney Library. This includes scheduling staff, problem solving, and exercising judgment to resolve issues. Supervises the work of 2-3 part-time library assistants and provides circulation, reference, and readers’ advisory assistance to patrons of all ages.

Position Duties:

Supervisory Duties:

• Schedules and maintains staffing calendar to ensure adequate coverage of the Barney Library.
• Provides front-line resolution of patron complaints and escalates as appropriate.
• Prepares reports as required.
• Monitors facility and submits requests for repair to the Facilities Manager.
• Submits requests for supplies as necessary.
• Trains team members in library policies, procedures, and customer service standards; works with team and supervisor to maintain uniform implementation of library policies, procedures, and standards.
• Supports Barney Library programming for adults and teens.
• Exhibits leadership qualities by acting decisively and confidently in lieu of direct supervisor; empowers staff to make decisions.
• Holds a position of trust requiring confidentiality, tact, and discretion when handling sensitive information such as staff performance matters, planning documents, or other non‑public materials.

General Duties:

• Explains library circulation policies and services to the public.
• Processes library materials, patron holds, library card applications and fee payments
• Responds to patron inquiries and assists patrons with locating materials
• Investigates and resolves library account issues relating to lost, overdue, or damaged library materials; maintains patron records and patron confidentiality
• Assists and instructs patrons on library technology and services
• Keeps various branch library statistics including phone calls, reference, readers advisory and directional questions
• Answers incoming phone calls and directs patrons to the appropriate staff.
• Processes new collection materials including but not limited to those for teens and adults and magazines.
• Inspects and manages materials being returned for cleaning, repair, or withdrawal.
• Oversees the opening and closing of Barney Library.
• Listens to understand and respond with sensitivity and inclusivity of varying viewpoints; navigates critical conversations with respect and diplomacy.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrative of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar or a logical assignment to the position.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience
▪ BA or BS in a related field
▪ Three years’ experience in library customer service required.
▪ Public Library experience preferred.

Professional Knowledge & Technical Skills
▪ Knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of modern library operations, including the ability to stay informed about current trends and best practices in public library services.
▪ Solid working knowledge of Microsoft Office software, internet searching, and the ability to learn new hardware and software.

Interpersonal Competencies
▪ Ability to provide welcoming and consistently excellent customer service.
▪ Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
▪ Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with individuals and groups, including co-workers, management, personnel, patrons, community partners, and the public.
▪ Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks.

Schedule and Other Requirements
▪ Participation in the Saturday shift rotation required.
▪ Access to reliable transportation required.

Physical & Work Environmental Requirements:
The physical demands and work environment described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable laws to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to move throughout the library environment and to position materials, including
  bending, reaching, stooping, and lifting items weighting up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to push book trucks loaded with materials weighing up to approximately 150
  pounds.
• Ability to remain stationary or mobile for extended periods during a shift.
• Ability to perform duties at multiple workstations.
• Visual ability to read printed and digital materials and operate standard office
  equipment.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and composure in busy or occasionally stressful
  situations.

Hours & Compensation:

Hours: 28 hours/week. Position works Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Hourly Rate: Starting at $38.00/hour; this is a non-benefited position.  Prorated paid vacation and sick time and support for professional development included.

How To Apply:

Please send a letter of interest, resume, and the names of 3 professional references to: Shana Shea, Assistant Director of Public Services and Outreach at [email protected]. Review of applications will begin July 1, 2026 and the position will remain open until filled.

Find more information at this link!