MASSACHUSETTS LIBRARY SYSTEM

JOB DESCRIPTION COLLECTION

 

   

SHREWSBURY PUBLIC LIBRARY

HEAD OF ADULT SERVICES

 

Definition
Professional administrative, supervisory and direct service work maintaining and updating the adult collection, and coordinating programs and activities; all other related work, as required.
 

Supervision
Works under the general direction of the Library Director.

Performs professional library functions of a responsible nature, involving substantial judgment and initiative in planning, developing and managing adult library services. Issues involving policy decisions are referred to the Library Director.
 

Supervisory Responsibilities
Supervises three full-time employees, as well as part-time staff and seasonal volunteers.
 

Work Environment
Work is performed under typical library and office conditions; the workload is subject to minor fluctuations; regular library schedule requires evening and weekend work.

The employee operates standard library equipment.

The employee has regular contact with library patrons and staff, vendors, library organizations and other town employees; contact is typically in person or by telephone.

The employee has access to confidential patron records.

Errors are easily detected and corrected, but could result in delay of services.
 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
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.

Develops and maintains all aspects of the adult collection; evaluates and recommends materials for purchase; responsible for maintenance of the collection through inventory, shelf reading, weeding and discarding materials.

Plans and organizes educational and entertainment programs for adults.

Responsible for supervision of Adult Services staff.

Represents the library on regional task forces, committees and at training programs; attends informational and instructional meetings and workshops related to library operations and adult services.

Provides reference and reader advisory services to patrons; responds to inquiries on procedures, in person and by telephone; provides direction, information and instruction.

Provides training and assistance to patrons in the use of computer hardware and software, the library database and the Internet.

Assists the Library Director in the development of goals and objectives and serves on various internal committees.

Assists at the circulation desk, as needed.

Writes monthly book review for publication.

Performs additional supervisory duties and may be on call, in the absence of the Director and Assistant Director.

Performs similar or related work as required, or as situation dictates.
 

Recommended Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience
Master's Degree in library science; three years of professional library experience; supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill
Knowledge of library policies and procedures, including automated circulation systems and information technology. Knowledge of classical and current trends in adult literature. Familiarity with foreign languages.

Ability to interact tactfully and appropriately with library patrons and staff. Ability to work independently and manage numerous, diverse tasks. Ability to develop and implement programs.

Customer service skills. Oral and written communication skills. Planning and organizational skills.
 

Physical Requirements
Minimal physical effort is required to perform most duties. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit speak, hear, and use hands to operate equipment. Vision requirements include the ability to read routine documents and use a computer.

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