MASSACHUSETTS LIBRARY SYSTEM

JOB DESCRIPTION COLLECTION

 

   

SHREWSBURY PUBLIC LIBRARY

HEAD OF REFERENCE

 

Definition
Responsible  administrative and direct service work coordinating and providing reference services and resources; all other related work as required.
 

Supervision
Work is performed under the general direction of the Head of Adult Services.

Performs responsible library duties requiring independent judgment and initiative; assignments are completed according to established procedures and departmental policies and standards; unusual or difficult situations are referred to the supervisor.
 

Work Environment
Work is performed under typical library and office conditions; the workload is subject to seasonal fluctuations which require advance planning; regular library schedule requires evening and weekend work.

The employee operates standard library equipment, including microfiche and film readers.

The employee has regular contact with library patrons and staff, vendors, other town employees and outside organizations; 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.

Performs a wide variety of reference services, utilizing library services and operations; assists patrons with requests for information or materials; assists patrons with public access catalogs and makes referrals.

Participates in reference collection development; maintains knowledge of reference materials and services; coordinates provision of reference materials.

Performs circulation desk duties, when necessary; oversees staff and is responsible for building security, on a rotating basis.

May conduct tours of the library and provide assistance to patrons with use of computers and the Internet.

Attends informational and instructional meetings and workshops related to library operations; may participate in regional committees and task forces.

Performs similar or related duties as required or as situation dictates.
 

Recommended Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience
Bachelor’s Degree; MLS preferred; two years of professional library 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 reference sources and the organization and management of library reference operations.

Ability to interact tactfully and appropriately with library patrons. Ability to work independently. Ability to learn computer operations and related library databases. Ability to operate library equipment.

Excellent computer skills. Customer service skills. Oral and written communication skills. 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 the employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.