Reference Supervisor

Library Jobline; Needham (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Needham Free Public Library in Needham, MA, is seeking a full-time Library Reference Supervisor to lead the Reference/Information Services team and oversee programming. The ideal candidate will hold MLS, have 4–6 years of professional reference experience, and proven supervisory and outreach skills, including working with diverse patrons and community engagement.

Responsibilities include scheduling staff, developing and evaluating services, coordinating with Digital/Technical Services, and

Qualifications

• MLS required or in MLS program with library experience considered
• 4–6 years in professional reference services, preferably with supervisory experience
• Knowledge of library policies, procedures, systems, programming, and trends

Responsibilities

• Direct and schedule reference/information services staff and plan projects
• Lead development of programming for patrons of all ages
• Ensure welcoming, inclusive reference services and programming
• Advise Director on plans, budgets, and policies
• Assist patrons in locating and using library resources
• Promote staff professional development and trends
• Design informational materials for print and digital channels
• Engage with local media to promote Reference services
• Coordinate with Technical Services Supervisor on budget and purchases for Young Adult/Adult Departments
• Evaluate collections for currency and accuracy
• Participate in hiring reference staff

Skills

Strong communication

Staff supervision

Reference services

Education

Master's Degree in Library Science

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.

Duties and Responsibilities

• 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.

Qualifications

• 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.

The 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.