Reference Librarian Substitute

Supervision Received:
Works under the general supervision of the Head of Information Services who provides instruction and assistance when needed,
outlines departmental policies and procedures, and evaluates performance.

Supervision Exercised:
Generally none. Employee is responsible for their own work.

Major Duties:

• Performs professional reference services, answering questions in person, by telephone, by mail, and online. Locates specific information, identifies resources, and assists patrons with the use of source materials and digital tools.

• Reviews requests for reserves and interlibrary loans to verify bibliographic citations and availability. Provides instruction in the use of library services, resources, and technology.

• Explains processes and policies for reserve, interlibrary loan, and purchase requests. Searches for requested materials online and locates materials on library shelves.

• Answers incoming calls and routes callers or provides information, as required. Assists patrons with retrieval of materials from unreachable shelves. Refers specialized questions to the appropriate person.

• Provides basic information on the use of the library catalog and website. Directs patrons to locations of various collections. Provides reader’s advisory services.

• Works on special projects, as needed.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:
Master's Degree in Library Science from a graduate program accredited by the American Library Association, PLUS one year of experience in library operations; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Familiarity and facility with library technology and extensive knowledge of information tools.
• Ability to deliver effective technology instruction to a wide range of users.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Enthusiastic and service oriented.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and to handle stressful situations.
• Ability to work well as a part of a team and maintain effective work relationships with co-workers and the general public.

Tools and Equipment Used:
Library information databases and integrated library system(s); computer workstation and MS Office Suite; computer and print management software; standard office equipment; digital scanner; microfilm/fiche reader; mobile devices.

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is routinely required to walk, climb, and push; use hands to finger, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move 25 pounds or more and push heavy book carts. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing this job: public setting with many walk-in patrons. The noise level is moderately noisy. The employee is exposed to common germs, paper, book dust, and, occasionally, to mold.

Selection Guidelines:
Formal application, rating of education, and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required.

The duties listed above 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. The 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.

The Town enjoys a long tradition of active, participatory, & professional government, and seeks a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community.