MASSACHUSETTS REGIONAL LIBRARY SYSTEMS

JOB DESCRIPTION COLLECTION

GROTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Reference Librarian

Statement of Duties
Performs reference librarian tasks for a Library department.  Has responsibility for GPL website.  Oversees internet access and training services. Performs other duties as required.

 

Supervision
Works under the general supervision of the director who provides goals and objectives.  Works independently to analyze/evaluate current reference programs and practices and to revise/develop programs as needed to respond to patron needs and service delivery. Library policies and procedures are available and must be observed and followed.

Provides initial instruction and guidance to staff and volunteers.

Has access to confidential information.
 

Job Environment
This is varied work, involving many detailed operations as well as non-standardized tasks, procedures and techniques, computer search and retrieval processes.

Errors could result in delay or loss of service and monetary loss, damage to equipment, patron dissatisfaction.

Frequent contact with Library patrons.   Other contacts are with other town employees, state and regional library associations, government agencies, vendors, and school employees.  Contacts are usually in person or by phone.  Computer-based communication is frequently necessary.
 

Essential Functions
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Coordinates functions related to providing reference services, including but not limted to review of existing services, analysis and development of new services, search and retrieval on behalf of patrons, and assisting patrons with self-guided research. Is coordinator for patron use of computer equipment.

Manages the Library’s internet Website, including development of new areas, update of existing material.  Reviews and responses to website inquiries.

Participates in the formulation of policy related to reference services and internet use.  Implements policies and interprets policies to the public.

Provides training to Library Assistants working in reference area, makes assignments. Coordinates volunteers assigned to area.

Makes presentations to community groups to explain library programs and services.  Receives complaints and/or special requests from patrons and community groups, providing response or conflict resolution.  Coordinates internet training services.

May write grant proposals and administer funded grant projects.  May write press releases and promotional material.

Participates in collection development, conducts readers’ advisory service, assists with outreach efforts to specialized populations.

Maintains and compiles statistics as needed or requested. 

Provides material classification and cataloging services as needed.

Maintains professional knowledge through attendance at professional library conferences, seminars and network committees.  Reads professional literature and remains current with information technology and its application. Attends and participates in staff meeting discussions.
 

Recommended Minimum Qualifications

          Education and Experience

A. L. A accredited Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science required.  Broad background in literature, social sciences, the humanities and/or the sciences.  Experience with information technology in a public library.

          Knowledge, Ability and Skill

          Thorough knowledge of:

• Computers and computer applications, reference databases, online reference sources, the Internet.

• Principles and practices of professional library work

• Library policies and procedures in order to explains programs and services to others.

• Research techniques

Working knowledge of:

• Common computer hardware and software in order to troubleshoot problems and assist patrons.

• HTML authoring software and Web design

Ability to:

• Provide guidance to others at various levels of training and ability, evaluate performance, provide training.

• Work with professionals of varying technical and professional disciplines.

• Persuade, negotiate, resolve conflict

• Use independent judgment to assess and evaluate information requests and match available resources to the age, physical, and mental ability of the requester.

• Communicate effectively with others, orally and in writing.
   

Physical and Mental Requirements
Work is performed in and office setting, subject to quiet or moderate noise.  Up to half of time is spent standing, walking, stooping or reaching with hands or arms.  Up to two-thirds of the time is spent using hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls.  The employee is frequently required to sit, talk and hear.  Frequently required to lift up to 10 pounds; occasional lifting is required up to 30 pounds; seldom required to lift up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. The need to respond to competing needs or provide response to conflict could cause stress at times. Equipment used includes personal computers, office machines.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

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