Adult Services Librarian

Company Description

The East Lansing Public Library's mission is to inspire, serve, and evolve as a source of knowledge, connection, and growth. Located just north of Michigan State University, the library offers meeting room spaces, quiet study areas, a teen area, a 1,100 square foot Maker Studio, and over 3,000 square feet of Children’s space. The library has received the 2017 State Librarian’s Excellence award and supports a diverse MSU/East Lansing community with over 30 dedicated staff members. The vision is to enrich, connect, and transform lives through knowledge and innovation.

Role Description

This is a full-time on-site role for an Adult Services Librarian located in East Lansing, MI. The Adult Services Librarian will be responsible for providing library services to adults, including reference assistance, reader advisory, and programming. The role involves daily tasks such as developing and implementing educational programs, managing collections, offering public services, and ensuring an excellent customer service experience.

Essential Job Functions

Programming & Outreach

• Plan and implement adult programs both in the library and offsite to increase awareness and engagement.

• Develop and maintain partnerships with community organizations, including Michigan State University, retirement communities, and local businesses.

• Operate and coordinate programs for the Library on the Go vehicle as needed.

• Ensure programming reflects the library’s strategic priorities and community needs.

• Seek funding opportunities and grants for adult programming.

Customer Service & Public Engagement

• Provide reference, readers’ advisory, and technology instruction at service desks.

• Offer a welcoming and inclusive library environment, proactively engaging with patrons.

• Handle customer service concerns, conflict resolution, and security issues when serving as Person in Charge (PIC).

• Create digital content such as book lists, blogs, and program highlights for the library’s website and marketing team.

Administrative & Team Collaboration

• Report regularly to the Engagement Team Leader on programs and outreach.

• Provide input on budget development for adult services and submit expenses for approval.

• Work collaboratively within the Engagement Team to align services with the library’s mission.

• Participate in professional development opportunities to stay current with library trends and best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited institution.

• Proven success in developing and implementing innovative programming.

• Strong ability to assess community needs and translate them into effective library services.

• Excellent customer service skills with the ability to engage with patrons of all ages.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

• Experience using online databases, reference resources, and digital tools.

• Proficiency in technology, including mobile devices and social media for library engagement.

• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work evenings and weekends as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a public library setting.

• Experience supervising volunteers or interns.

• Experience with library ILS systems, productivity software, and web-based catalogs.

• Background in marketing, outreach, or community engagement.

• Familiarity with STEAM-related programs and maker spaces.

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit and use computer for extended periods, and operate stand office 

equipment

• Ability to lift and move up to fifty (50) pounds

• Ability to push book trucks with up to 150 pounds of materials on them

• Ability to perform repeated reaching, bending, and squatting

• Ability to crouch and kneel to reach equipment near the floor

• Ability to work effectively under stressful conditions in a fast-paced environment

• Regular travel by automobile for outreach and programs

Working Conditions

• Majority of work performed in library environment and East Lansing community

• Requires availability for extended hours as needed

• Requires evenings and/or weekends

• Requires periodic participation and attendance at events and training

ELPL will accept applications through Friday, April 11, 2025. To apply, please email a cover 

letter, resume, and City of East Lansing General Employment Application to: Zandra Blake, Engagement Team Leader zblake@elpl.org

Alternatively, mail your cover letter, resume, and completed application to:

Zandra Blake, 

Engagement Team Leader

East Lansing Public Library 950 Abbot Road

East Lansing, MI 48823

This job description is subject to change based on the needs of the East Lansing Public Library. To 

perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty 

satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with 

disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EAST LANSING PUBLIC LIBRARY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.