Library Reference Supervisor

Town of Needham; Needham (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Needham’s Needham Free Public Library seeks a Library Reference Supervisor to lead the reference/information services department and to develop engaging programming for all ages. The role requires exemplary communication, staff leadership, and a commitment to an inclusive, welcoming environment within the Needham community.

Under the Assistant Director, you will manage scheduling, budgets, and policy input while guiding staff in utilizing print, catalog, databases, and digital

Qualifications

• MLS required or currently enrolled with relevant coursework and library experience considered.
• 4–6 years in professional reference services, preferably with supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of library policies, procedures, systems, programming, and current trends.
• Ability to manage scheduling for department and delegate projects; adapt to new technologies.
• Ability to plan strategic programming creating an inclusive environment for all.
• Strong communication with patrons, staff, and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Direct and schedule activities of the reference/information services department.
• Lead development of library programming across technology, art, history, and culture.
• Ensure welcoming, inclusive, and affirming services and programming for all patrons.
• Advise Director on plans, budgets, staffing, and policies.
• Assist patrons in locating and using print materials, catalogs, and databases.
• Promote staff development and professional growth within the Reference team.
• Create and share informational materials via print and social media.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Staff scheduling

Program planning

Community engagement

Education

MLS (Master’s in Library Science)

Tools

Library databases

Catalog system

Job description

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 Strategic Plan and Annual Action Plans position 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 with our newly opened 4,000-square-foot Teen Room being the first phase. 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 #27025

• 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.

• 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.

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 AM on Friday, November 6, 2026.

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.

For general employment inquiries, please contact us at [e-mail].

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 [e-mail].