Collection Development Librarian

Performed under the general direction of the Director of Library Services, exercises professional librarian skills in coordinating materials selection in designated areas of the KDL collection.

• Selects materials in support of patron needs using a centralized selection model that is efficient and effective in obtaining and disseminating materials.
• Maintains the collection through both the acquisition of new materials and the elimination of dated materials consistent with recommendations resulting from collection needs research.
• Monitors publishing trends and seeks information on new materials and formats. Uses staff and patron suggestions, review sources, and other selection resources to meet community collection needs and to achieve the goals of the KDL Strategic Plan.
• Instructs and assists library staff and patrons to use all available resources to provide input on collection needs including online purchase requests, Baker and Taylor carts, and other applicable tools and techniques.
• Provides guidance to branch staff on achieving an easy-find environment with regard to collection arrangement and marketing.
• Increases the user base by identifying non-traditional materials that meet the interest needs and subsequently attract patrons who are not regularly using the library.
• Collaborates with KDL teams and committees to build and improve designated areas of the KDL collection.
• Promotes the library collection by creating booklists and participating in blogging and social media.
• Promotes an awareness and support for branch services by educating KDL staff and acting as a liaison to community agencies.
• Participates in the formation, development, and implementation of strategic goals and action plans.
• Pursues professional development by serving on KDL committees, and attending meetings, workshops, and conferences to maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills of pertinent Library policies, procedures and equipment.
• Participates in professional organizations; shares information by networking, teaching workshops, and preparing group presentations in the community and at local, state, and national conferences.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

• This job requires a Master's degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited institution and Library of Michigan Professional Certificate.
• One to two years of professional librarian work experience.
• General knowledge of popular materials for all ages preferred.
• Demonstrated leadership in facilitating collaborative problem solving and group decision-making.
• Ability to travel between work locations and related places of business as needed.
• Working knowledge and understanding of the principles, methods and practices of public library operations, including search methods, reader's advisory and reference interviews. Incumbent is also required to acquire knowledge of the policies and procedures of Kent District Library.
• Considerable knowledge of available circulating materials and basic reference sources.
• Working knowledge of public library computer hardware and software applications (e.g., online databases) and how they are accessed and used by staff and patrons for the benefit of locating materials in the collection.
• Demonstrated accuracy, attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work under general supervision with latitude in exercising independent judgment and discretion subject to Library policies, procedures, and professional practices, while also working as a professional liaison to the branch staff.
• Interpersonal and communication skills necessary to plan and coordinate collection development in designated areas. The incumbent is also required to interact with various library staff and patrons in an effective and courteous manner. Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms.
• Analytical ability to maintain accurate statistics.
• Hearing ability to answer telephone and staff inquiries.
• Visual acuity and computer skills necessary to effectively access information on the computer.
• Ability to operate a variety of library equipment including a computer, fax and copy machine.

Work Schedule:

• KDL provides library services to our local communities seven days per week. The person in this role will generally work Monday through Friday between the hours of 8am-5pm.
• While this position is currently assigned to the above location, KDL reserves the right to require employees to be available for assignments at any KDL location.

Kent District Library is recognized as one of the Best & Brightest Companies to Work for in West Michigan 2019. This stems from offering competitive pay, outstanding benefits and fostering excellent work-life balance, but more than anything, it comes as a result of our workplace culture and sense of purpose, which is to further all people.