DATE ENTERED: September 30, 2024
POSITION: Librarian (Community Engagement)
LOCATION: Suffolk Public Library (Suffolk VA)
SALARY:       $50,426 - $60,208
APPLY BY:  Wednesday, October 16, 2024

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under general supervision, The Community Engagement Librarian performs professional library work researching and implementing outreach services and community partnerships in support of Community Engagement Department priorities. Work involves developing, leading and implementing outreach services for a variety of demographics, analyzing community data and identifying community needs, 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 outreach services, 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 Engagement.

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

• Gathers community knowledge that informs services developed by the Community Engagement Department
• Provides ongoing leadership and support for existing library outreach by keeping abreast of professional trends and incorporating knowledge in departmental training and development.
• Works alongside other departments in their development of community-responsive library services by identifying resource gaps, current community needs and potential supporting partnerships.
• 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.
• Interprets and applies 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.
• Develops resources and services that extend library services beyond library locations making them available to users who face barriers to access.
• Identifies opportunities for partnership and collaboration with community organizations and potential partners
• Pursues and maintains relationships with community partners under the direction of Senior Librarian (Partnerships) and Community Engagement Manager
• Leads system-wide library initiatives and staff teams 
• Presents community data and library research to library staff and partners to ensure alignment of library projects with community need and strategic goals
• 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:  Wednesday, October 16, 2024

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:  www.suffolkpubliclibrary.com/careers