Adult Services/Reference Librarian

State of Massachusetts; Kingston (MA); On-site; USD 62,527 - 81,286; Full time

Job summary

The State of Massachusetts is hiring an Adult Services/Reference Librarian for the Kingston Public Library. This full-time position encompasses managing the reference services, overseeing collections, and implementing programming for adults.

The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree in Library Science and experience in library services along with necessary certifications. The role offers a salary of $62,527 annually and emphasizes community engagement and technology integration.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of related work experience or equivalent education and training.
• CORI certification required as a condition of employment.
• Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners certification within two years.

Responsibilities

• Manage reference services and resources for the library.
• Participate in circulation and reference desk.
• Select and manage reference resources.
• Train staff in reference procedures.
• Educate patrons on library resources.

Skills

Library Science

Reference Services

Collection Development

Public Relations

Technology Integration

Education

Master’s degree in Library Science

Job description

Adult Services/Reference Librarian, Kingston Public Library (Kingston)

This is a 35‑hour per week position, covered by the Wage and Personnel Bylaw.

Essential Functions

• Manages and coordinates the reference services and resources for Kingston Public Library; manages the operating budget for reference and adult collections and related services, including programs for adults.
• Participates at the circulation and reference desk and provides reference services to library patrons, including answering reference questions from customers of all ages, training, assisting customers in the proper use of library computers and serving as an adult reader's advisor.
• Evaluates, selects and manages reference resources in a variety of formats; uses professional collection development tools and review journal to maintain currency and relevance of the collection.
• Establishes policies and procedures in the reference department; trains staff librarians in reference procedures and policies and in the use of reference resources; manages staff training in Readers Advisory skills including KPL, OCLN and Commonwealth resources.
• Educates the public in the use of public access catalog, main room computers and online research resources; analyzes patron technology needs and creates training programs for patrons.
• Collects and evaluates reference database statistics, adult services statistics and tutor statistics.
• Prepares publicity materials for the library such as press releases and flyers for programs and events for the library in written and electronic format; uses social media to promote library services.
• Oversees selection of adult fiction and nonfiction materials and authorizes the purchase of materials to maintain a balanced collection that represents the community needs.
• Manages and approves meeting room requests; orders and maintains tax forms in season; educates patrons in the use of online tax resources.
• Participates in OCLN Public services roundtable which guides network services for patrons of member libraries.
• Researches and prepares grants to support the provision of adult programs and services.
• Investigates and integrates emerging technologies and best practices into service for adult patrons of the library.
• Performs Readers Advisory services for patrons—conducts RA interviews and recommends titles to meet patron needs including book groups.
• Participates in continuing education and attends workshops to keep abreast of latest developments in the library field and specifically the provision of adult services.
• Manages promotion of adult programming; approves and coordinates program calendar and administers operating budget for programs for adults created by other staff, such as book groups, writing groups, maker programs, lectures, music and performance programs, South Shore Locavores series.

Statement of Duties

The Adult Services Librarian is responsible for the planning, coordinating, and directing of the provision of library service work in providing a comprehensive program through collection development, programming, reference, readers advisory services, and public relations for adult patrons of the library. The employee is required to perform all similar or related duties.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree preferred in Library Science from a program accredited with the American Library Association.
• Minimum of three to five (3‑5) years of related work experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
• CORI certification is required as a condition of employment.
• Certification from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners is required within two (2) years of appointment.

Full Time

Full Time

Education

MLS/Masters

Salary

$62,527.00 per year

Closing Date

Posted until filled.

How to Apply

Qualified applicants should complete the Town of Kingston employment application found on the Town website under Employment and submit their résumé. Please include a cover letter with salary expectations.

Application materials can be emailed to [e-mail], mailed to the Town of Kingston Town House Attn: Human Resources, or hand delivered.

Annual FY26 (July 2025), Grade 7 annual salary range is $62,527 – $81,286. There are ten steps within the salary range. Hiring step is determined based on relative experience and internal equity.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Town of Kingston is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Applications

Applications will be reviewed on a continuous basis and posting may close at any time.