Adult Services Librarian Job at a 2017 study for the Ohio Library Council found

Position Title: Adult Services Librarian (Exempt)

Department: Adult Services

Immediate Supervisor: Coordinator of Adult Services

Position Summary: Responsible for providing a full range of library services to customers using the adult collection. Maintains and delivers library services to the community by: assisting with collection development; identifying and interpreting user needs; providing reference and readers' advisory services as well as computer, database and referral services; assisting patrons in material selection; and developing and facilitating relevant programming for adult customers. Provides direction to Adult Services support staff and routinely acts as supervisor-on-duty.

Education: MLS or MLIS; or completion of a Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited library school within six months.

Responsibilities: (not all-inclusive) All of the duties listed below are essential job functions for which reasonable accommodations will be made. This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

Essential Functions:

• Interpret and implement the Library's policies and procedures in a patron-responsive manner with a commitment to excellent customer service.
• Identify and interpret user needs; provide reference and readers' advisory services as well as computer, database and referral services; and assist patrons in material selection and interlibrary loan.
• Assist in collection development and maintenance by weeding, selecting, and recommending titles and materials for portions of the adult collection.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, subordinates, associates, officials of other agencies, and the general public.
• To stand for extended periods of time; to lift up to 35 lbs.; to push heavily loaded carts of materials weighing up to 300 lbs.; and possess physical agility and strength to bend and reach.
• Perform other duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Knowledge of the basic elements of library operation and the ability to apply such knowledge to work performed.
• A strong public service orientation, excellent customer service skills and interpersonal skills to deal effectively with the public and staff.
• Demonstrate the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, visitors, staff, and the general public.
• Analytical abilities sufficient to perform reference searches quickly and accurately with material at the appropriate age level using print and electronic formats.
• Familiarity with general library materials, resource sharing and interlibrary loan.
• Familiarity with current library technology and the ability to develop skills in the use of the library’s automation system and other computer technology and software.
• Expertise in current Microsoft Office applications; searching standard library and reference databases; and Internet searching.
• Ability to operate and troubleshoot office equipment including information management tools (Windows applications, database, etc.).
• Exhibit independent judgment sufficient to organize work efficiently, set effective priorities, make sound choices and work independently.
• Ability to concentrate on a task despite frequent distractions.
• Demonstrate dependability and punctuality.
• Demonstrate a high level of attention to detail.
• Exhibit integrity and the ability to maintain the confidentiality of library information.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with library administration and library staff.
• Exhibit excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to adapt to changing situations.

Specific Requirements:

• Possess an understanding of the Library's policies and procedures and fully endorse the FCDL philosophy of public library service.
• Exhibit adherence to all personnel policies and procedures as established by the Board and Library Administration.
• Welcome interaction with customers by being friendly, approachable and courteous.
• Exhibit patience, tact, a cheerful disposition and enthusiasm as well as the willingness to handle difficult staff and situations.
• Ability to supervise and evaluate support staff work performance and to direct the work of lower-level staff when the supervisor is not present.
• Understand the importance of connecting customers to popular and recreational reading and the ability to assist them in choosing materials.
• Understand the importance of determining customer needs, researching and locating answers in a timely manner and providing accurate information.
• Possess knowledge and understanding of ordering, shipping and materials processing requirements.
• Possess understanding of parameters for weeding a collection and disposition of obsolete materials.
• Awareness of community trends and demographics when making purchasing decisions.
• Demonstrate knowledge of resources for the selection and evaluation of materials.
• Plan and create booklists, bibliographies, displays and similar marketing materials.
• Maintain professional awareness of current library trends and developments through professional reading, conference attendance and organization participation.
• Provide training and assistance to maintain staff and patron skills in use of library’s online catalog and other reference resources.
• Conduct book-talks, department tours and other library programs. Attend and participate in community activities and events as needed.
• Maintain local information and special reference files.
• Keep the Coordinator of Adult Services informed of personnel issues and department needs and concerns as they affect the operations of the library.
• Serve as a resource person to the other staff in matters relating to reference, reader’s advisory and the use of technology.
• Exhibit the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant.
• Participate in system meetings; volunteer to serve on committees and library projects as appropriate.
• As time permits, participate in state and local library organizations and activities for professional development.
• Must be willing to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends.
• Routinely act as supervisor-on-duty.
• Oversee opening and closing procedures of the Library.

Working Conditions:

• Subject to work beyond normal working hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays when necessary.
• Due to direct access to Library credit card accounts, control over Library systems and possession of building master key, is subject to criminal background check.
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life.
• Paid holidays, vacation, personal leave, and sick leave.
• Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS) and Deferred Compensation programs.

Application Deadline: Resumes accepted through Wednesday, February 19, 2024.

Application Instructions: Submit cover letter, resume, and business references.