Reference Librarian - Kent Memorial Library. The
Town of Suffield is a quintessential New England town with a
longstanding pledge to preserving its historic architecture and
agricultural roots. The many people who serve Suffield through town
government - as employees and volunteers alike - remain committed to
developing and fostering a strong sense of community among its
residents.
Kent Memorial Library is seeking an energetic and
creative individual to become the Reference Librarian. This position
leads and trains a team of part-time staff to provide outstanding
service to the community. Serves the residents of Suffield in a
customer-oriented manner that helps promote a positive, professional
image for the Town government.
Supervision Received: Works under the general direction of the Library Director.
Supervision Exercised: This position leads and trains a team of part-time staff to provide outstanding service to the community.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Understands and is able to perform all jobs related to reference
services, including but not limited to: research, reader’s advisory,
technology, and information services. Assists patrons in using the
online catalog and other electronic tools and resources; assists and
instructs patrons in using library services, equipment, and facilities,
including one-on- one instructional sessions. Provide outstanding
customer service at the reference desk to library patrons in person,
over the telephone, and by email. Provides technical/reference support
to staff; works with Town of Suffield IT Department in identifying and
resolving IT-related needs and tickets. Maintains reference data and
prepares regular statistical reports for the Director. Maintains
familiarity with the collection, recommends materials to be added using
standard library selection tools. Keeps informed of current events and
developments in the library field and maintains current knowledge of
library technology. Maintains knowledge of the automated circulation and
technical services systems and assists with circulation, technical
services tasks, and interlibrary loan system, including paperwork and
shipments, as needed. Creates displays to enhance the library experience
and to promote the use of library resources. Maintain positive working
relationships with school officials, community groups, and the public
regarding program offerings and coordination of services; promptly and
cordially respond to citizen inquiries, feedback, and complaints about
services and facilities. Attend seminars and conferences to remain
current on developments in relevant fields.
Other Job Functions:
Perform other related work as assigned. Works at other public service
desks, as needed. Attends professional and community meetings,
workshops, and conferences, as required.
Education and Experience, Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in related field required. Master of
Library Science Degree in Library Science (MLS) from an accredited
institution is preferred. Three (3) years of progressively responsible
experience in public libraries, including management and supervision of
staff, preferably in the reference department. Library reference
experience required. Experience in providing direct customer service to
various populations. Experience with current and future technologies.
Any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the
required skills, knowledge, and abilities. Graduate students in Library
Science programs are encouraged to apply. Relevant experience may be
substituted for education attainment if deemed appropriate by the First
Selectman.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Excellent interpersonal skills. Communication skills. Knowledge of
computers and office software. Knowledge of children’s literature
preferred.
Special Requirements: Valid, active
Motor Vehicle Operator’s license preferred. Must submit to
pre-employment drug and alcohol testing as well as fitness for duty
testing.
Tools and Equipment Used: Prior library experience and familiarity with the Bibliomation Evergreen library system are preferred.
Please see the full job posting at this link.
Hours: This
position is at will. This is a thirty-seven (37) hours per week,
full-time union position with benefits. Must be flexible to include
evenings and weekends. The hours may be subject to change. This position
occasionally requires long hours beyond those scheduled hours,
including monthly evening commission meetings, evening work, and weekend
work as job duties demand.
Compensation and Benefits:
$25.66 per hour; compensation in accordance with the Library Collective
Bargaining Agreement. Benefits package to include: Paid Holidays per
Year • Paid Sick and Vacation Days • Medical, Dental, and Vision
Insurance • Defined Contribution Plan with Town Match • Short-Term
Disability, Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance.
How to Apply: Applications can be found on the town web page at www.suffieldct.gov under town departments/Human Resources. Submit application along with a resume by November 8, 2021. Mail
or email application and resume to Town of Suffield, Attention: Shannon
Jendrysik, Human Resources Department, 83 Mountain Rd, Suffield, CT
06078 sjendrysik@suffieldct.gov. The Town of Suffield is an equal opportunity employer m/f/d/v.
