Supervising Librarian

About the role

This is professional library work in the supervision of a library service area or in the development and supervision of a specialized subject area such as literacy, computers, emerging technologies, digital navigation, audio-visual resources and services, and information services for businesses and entrepreneurs.

Responsibilities

• Develops goals, plans, programs, and services for a service area.
• Manages, supervises, and participates in all daily service and support operations of the service area.
• Manages and selects print and non-print materials for a specified service area.
• Prepares, monitors, and maintains programming budget for a service area.
• Collaborates and engages with citizens and community agencies to maintain awareness of community needs.
• Develops outreach and advertising materials within criteria set by communication department to create outreach opportunities and partnerships with local organizations and businesses.
• Develops and delivers programs that promote use of the Library such as: book discussion clubs, author talks, writing groups, computer classes, tours, and community outreach like a read aloud class visit, attending a community management team meeting or other event created by or for the community.
• Coaches, mentors, manages performance, and addresses service area staff concerns in a timely manner; guides and directs department staff on library services.
• Represents the Library in community organizations relevant to the specialized area of service.
• Works closely with other Supervising Librarians and Library management to assure services are responsive to patron and community needs.
• Encourages ongoing professional development for staff training sessions and mentoring.
• Safeguards and enforces Library and City policies, procedures, and guidelines for staff and the public while ensuring compliance with all local, state and federal laws and regulations with appropriate guidance from library and city administrations.

Qualifications & Experience

• A Master’s degree in Library Science.
• A minimum of three to five years’ experience in professional library work.
• At least one year of supervisory experience.

Knowledge, Experience, Skills & Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of integrated Library Science.
• Considerable knowledge of the objectives of Library service to the community.
• Considerable knowledge in the required area of expertise, such as reference and bibliographic research, emerging technologies, youth services for ages 0-18, and/or business information service.
• Knowledge of emerging trends and technologies in Library and Information Science.
• Demonstrated strong leadership and management skills in order to efficiently plan, organize, supervise, and manage the staff of a service area.
• Ability to schedule and supervise the work of professional and support staff.
• Ability to problem-solve issues related to patron concerns and library services.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, other City departments, external partners, and the general public.
• Ability to monitor progress and manage resources to accomplish objectives with strong organizational, research, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Ability to demonstrate strong public relations and customer service skills and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to make sound, independent judgments within established policies and procedures.
• Proficiency with library related professional tools and software applications (MS Office, library catalog and digital databases).
• Ability to understand and interpret library policies and objectives to community groups, public officials, business and education leaders, the staff and to the public.
• Willingness to engage in regular technical training and the ability to remain current with emerging technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and sensitively in a diverse community, recognizing and respecting cultural and socio-economic differences, and fostering an inclusive environment.