Technical Services Supervising Librarian

New Haven Free Public Library is seeking an experienced and collaborative library professional to lead its Technical Services department. This role ensures the smooth operation of systemwide acquisitions, cataloging, processing of print and digital materials, database management, and collection support, while fostering integration with the Library’s overall services.

Responsibilities

• Develop goals and manage all aspects of acquisitions, cataloging, and processing of materials.
• Retrieve data, compile information, and prepare reports and statistical analysis for services, programs, and collection usage.
• Monitor and maintain print and digital collections budget for systemwide departments.
• Manage, supervise, and participate in all daily service and support operations of the Technical Services department.
• Create and maintain documentation related to Technical Services workflows and procedures.
• Coordinate library staff training on new material processing workflows and digital resources such as databases and digital publishing platforms.
• In collaboration with IT, maintain interfaces between the library’s ILS and third-party products using relevant APIs and manage ILS software updates.
• Coach, mentor, and manage performance of department staff; address staff concerns in a timely manner.
• Represent the Library in community organizations relevant to technical services.
• Work closely with other Supervising Librarians and Library management to ensure services meet patron and community needs.
• Encourage ongoing professional development for staff through training and mentoring.
• Enforce Library and City policies, procedures, and guidelines while ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Requirements

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

Skills & Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of library cataloging, classification principles, procedures, and techniques.
• Understanding of library service objectives and community needs.
• Familiarity with technical services operations and national standards, including RDA, AACR2, MARC formats, OCLC, and Dewey Decimal Classification.
• Experience with integrated automated library systems; Innovative Interfaces/Sierra ILS highly preferred.
• Awareness of emerging trends and technologies in Library and Information Science.
• Strong leadership and management skills to plan, organize, supervise, and manage staff.
• Ability to schedule and supervise professional and support staff.
• Problem-solving skills for patron concerns and library services.
• Collaborative approach with staff, City departments, external partners, and the public.
• Organizational, research, analytical, and resource management skills.
• Strong public relations, customer service, and communication skills (verbal and written).
• Ability to make sound, independent judgments within established policies.
• Proficiency with library-related tools and software (MS Office, library catalogs, digital databases).
• Ability to interpret and communicate library policies and objectives to diverse audiences.
• Willingness to engage in regular technical training and stay current with emerging technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a diverse community, fostering an inclusive environment.

Physical Requirements

The role involves the following physical demands and working conditions:

• Primarily sedentary work with extended periods of sitting and computer use.
• Occasional standing, walking, and reaching with hands and arms.
• Regular interaction with patrons and staff (face-to-face).
• Ability to lift and carry materials up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Work environment may include exposure to wet or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, and outdoor weather conditions.

Pay

This position is part of a collective bargaining agreement with Local 3144, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. General Fund hires contribute 10% of salary to the City pension and are not covered by Social Security. The City of New Haven does not sponsor employment visas.