PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

We are expanding learning opportunities at the Suffolk Public Library! We are growing our Community Learning Department and are looking for a Librarian to lead the charge in building instructional offerings at the Suffolk Public Library. Under limited supervision but in coordination with Community Learning Management, the Community Learning Librarian will develop a long range plan for implementation of formal learning opportunities and classes at the library. The position is responsible for identifying learning needs in the community, formulating long range learning goals, developing procedures and planning and evaluating programs and services to meet the identified needs. The Librarian will onboard adult learners into library learning opportunities, build relationships and connect students with instructors, content experts and community and learning resources.

The Community Learning Librarian also performs professional library work researching and implementing programs, events and other learning opportunities for all ages in the library and other offsite locations.  Work involves developing, leading and implementing programming for a variety of demographics,; leading teams in the implementation of programs and projects; identifying library, education and technology trends, providing technology assistance and training for patrons and staff; providing library services throughout the community; and providing assistance in the daily operation of the library; including assisting patrons regarding reference demands, assisting with questions and/or problems regarding resources and reference materials, and selecting and recommending materials for acquisition. Employee must exercise independent judgment in developing programs conducting research, leading teams and completing assigned tasks. Employee must also exercise considerable tact and courtesy in frequent contact with patrons and the general public. Reports to the Library Manager overseeing Community Learning.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described.  Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.

Essential Job Functions

• Essential Functions may vary based on area of assignment:
• Gathers community knowledge that informs services developed by the Community Learning Department.
• Develops strategies to implement formal learning opportunities at the library.
• Identifies learning needs in the community and how to best meet those needs.
• Onboards adult learners, builds relationships and connects students with instructors, content experts, and community and learning resources.
• Develops public learning opportunities for all ages and abilities in a variety of formats and addressing a variety of learning styles including in-person and virtual programs, classes, events, asynchronous challenges and other learning opportunities, both onsite and via outreach.
• Plans, develops and leads to implement programming and other learning opportunities to address community needs in accordance with the library's strategic plan. 
• Identifies opportunities for learning in the community and develops appropriate responses. 
• Leads departmental and interdepartmental teams in the implementation of events and projects, such as Battle of the Books (BOB).
• Provides ongoing leadership and support for existing library programs by keeping abreast of professional trends and incorporating knowledge in departmental training and development. 
• Works alongside the Community Engagement Department to determine community learning needs, opportunities and to help identify community experts to assist in the development in programming. 
• Provides one-on-one technology assistance for patrons to improve library and technology skills based on community needs.
• Assists patrons regarding reference demands and performs readers' advisory services; responds to citizen requests for assistance in using the department's computer system.
• Maintains knowledge of the reference and circulating collections, electronic resources; maintains reference and circulating collections.
• Interpret and apply library policies and procedures for customers and staff; Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality seamless customer service.
• Maintains an awareness of new literature, technologies, trends, and advances in the profession; reads professional literature; maintains professional affiliations; attends workshops and training sessions as appropriate and incorporates knowledge into daily work.
• Performs work at the Public Services desk which includes checking materials in and out, placing reserves, and responding to the informational needs of the library patrons.
• Performs reference tasks such as instructing readers in the use of reference tools including computer, copier and microfilm machine; and answering reference questions and requests by phone or in person.
• Conducts introductory tours of the library.
• Provide training for employees to improve library and technology skills based on community and professional trends.
• Collects fines for overdue and lost materials and fees for the use of the copier.
• Performs other related work as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Master's Degree in an ALA accredited program in Library Science or possession of Librarian's Professional Certificate from the Commonwealth of Virginia State Library Board and experience in a library setting or closely related field; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities.  In the event the candidate does not currently possess a Master's Degree in an ALA accredited program in Library Science, they will have to earn it within four months of their date of hire.

Requires a valid driver's license.

CLOSING DATE:  Sunday, June 4, 2023

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:  www.suffolkpubliclibrary.com/careers