The Russell Library (Middletown, CT) seeks a reliable and flexible generalist to staff all service points as needed. The Generalist Librarian’s focus is direct customer service. They create a welcoming environment by greeting patrons, initiating conversations and meeting visitors’ expressed needs. They must demonstrate enthusiasm for and proficiency in working with people of all ages, particularly children. An ideal candidate thinks working with kids is fun, understands that it’s all about giving “littles'' positive library experiences, and commits to an equitable and inclusive approach to public librarianship.
Middletown is a vibrant, growing and diverse community of 47,000 residents located on the Connecticut River in the heart of the Nutmeg State. Home to two colleges and universities, a thriving downtown, a rich cultural and dining scene, and a unique combination of urban, suburban and rural life, Middletown has something to offer everyone. Founded in 1875, the Russell Library is a 501(c)(3) organization that serves as the principal public library for the City of Middletown, with a full range of services aimed at 21st-century users. Our strategic plan sets our course for success in the coming years.
The Generalist Librarian will become a recognizable face that patrons can expect to see when they visit Russell Library. They will be “on the floor” more often than not; proactively offer assistance and follow through until the expressed need is met; stay abreast of new offerings as they emerge; keep up with what is happening at Russell and promote resources, materials, services and programs through deliberate word-of-mouth. The incumbent goes above and beyond to delight our youngest patrons, who are given such a positive experience they don’t want to leave and can’t wait to come back. Responsibilities include:
Public Service: Work directly with patrons of all ages at every public service point, with an emphasis on Youth and Family Learning. Connect patrons with titles they will love by devoting time, energy and expertise to readers’ advisory, particularly geared toward early readers and young adults. Assist patrons with all manner of technology, helping them achieve their intended purpose while teaching digital literacy in the process. Conduct youth programs, including but not limited to storytimes and book groups. May offer “roving” professional assistance at off-site events and meetings. Courteously and productively assist people of various lived experiences and backgrounds. Discern when requests for assistance fall outside the scope of library services and refer patrons to service agencies as appropriate to meet their needs.
Collection Development: Audit, select, maintain, and weed materials for assigned collection ranges. Continually refresh knowledge of Middletown and apply that knowledge to tailor collections to this specific community. Pay attention to bestseller lists, curated book reviews, and publishing trends for all age ranges, particularly YA and children’s literature, on an ongoing basis. Talk to patrons and colleagues about recent releases to get a sense of what people are reading/watching/listening to and contribute to a literary atmosphere at Russell Library.
The successful candidate must possess strong technology skills and reference interview prowess; enjoy interacting with children, teens, and families; and dedicate themselves to making Russell Library a joyful place for kids to visit.
The skills and knowledge required would generally be acquired with a Master’s Degree in Library Science and some working or internship experience in a library or other intensive customer-service environment or a comparable combination of education and experience/qualifications. 35 hours per week; some evenings and weekends required. Union.
Salary range: $33.53-$42.36 per hour plus a competitive employee benefits package. Applicants should submit a resume and cover letter HERE no later than 4:00 pm on Monday, November 13, 2023.
See the full position posting HERE.
Russell Library is an equal opportunity employer. Russell Library prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, parental status, military service, or other legally protected characteristics. Russell Library conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Equity, diversity and inclusion are core values at Russell Library. We seek to employ people who share those values and readily apply them in their work.
