Reference Librarian

City of Springfield•CPLC-Library-East Forest Park, MA

About The Position

The Reference Librarian provides reference and resource information, materials, and programs to the general public for the City of Springfield’s Library Department. The position assists patrons in finding and using library materials and refers them to other sources when appropriate. Work follows accepted library-science practices and procedures, with considerable latitude for independent professional judgment. The position works under the general direction of the Branch Manager or Manager of Public Services, whose reviews may include observation, reports, and conferences. Supervision of other employees may be exercised. The role provides reference and instructional services to the public, branches, and regional libraries; contributes to system-wide services and operations; and develops and delivers library programs and instruction. It also supports collection and web-related work, staff training, special projects, and service recommendations. The librarian stays current on developments in the field and public information needs, trains personnel informally, and performs routine library and administrative tasks.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
Completion of an American Library Association-accredited Master of Library Science.
Two or more years of experience in a library environment.
Thorough knowledge of information provision theory and practice.
Specialized knowledge of the reading interests and developmental stages of children and teens.
Ability to demonstrate vision, strategic thinking, collaboration, inclusive leadership, flexibility, adaptability, and willingness to embrace and drive change.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Creative problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

Provide reference and instructional services to the general public, branches, and regional libraries.
Monitor the performance of the periodicals collection.
Assist the Internet Services Librarian with web maintenance.
Oversee the production of bibliographic aids and perform related system-wide duties as required.
Participate in departmental work, including outreach, books by mail, formal instruction, collection development, web development and maintenance, bibliographies, reader-advisory products, and displays.
Plan, schedule, and implement bibliographic instruction and programs for students, special-interest groups, and the general public on the use of library services and collections.
Participate in the system-wide staff training program.
Initiate and participate in special projects to analyze, design, and develop services for diverse audiences.
Work individually or on teams to recommend new initiatives or service changes related to reference desk operations.
Stay informed about library developments and technology, current events, popular reading interests, and public information needs.
Provide informal training to personnel on methods and practices.
Perform routine tasks such as taking payments for microform copies, counting daily cash receipts, keeping statistics, and refiling and reshelving ready-reference materials.
Perform other similar duties as required or requested by a supervisor.
May supervise other employees.