Reference Services and Historical Collections Librarian – Rockingham Free Public Library (Rockingham, VT)

The Rockingham Free Public Library, one of four Carnegie libraries in the state of Vermont, is seeking applicants for the position of Reference Services and Historical Collections Librarian, a full-time benefits eligible position serving the Town of Rockingham, nestled in southeastern Vermont in the Connecticut River Valley. The 17,000 square foot library building holds a collection of more than 40,000 books and other media, as well as a large historical collection primarily documenting the local region. The library is a short walk from downtown Bellows Falls and its eclectic restaurants, coffee houses, and retail shops.

The Reference Services and Historical Collections Librarian oversees reference services, manages the Historical Collection, has collection development responsibility for non-fiction, reference, and some media, and provides backup for circulation desks. In addition, the position serves as a technology liaison and works with others to implement and management software and hardware needs at the library.

For a complete job description, please click here.

The Reference and Historical Collections Librarian is a full-time, benefits-eligible position (minimum 30 hours per week). Compensation is commensurate with experience; candidates will have an MLS or Vermont Public Library Certification, and/or significant library experience. Minimum starting wage is $22/hour.

Please submit resume and cover letter of interest to director@rockinghamlibrary.org

– Posted 6/27/23

Circulation/Saturday Librarian – Charlotte Library (Charlotte, VT)

The Charlotte Library is looking for a community-minded team player to serve as Circulation/Saturday Librarian beginning July 1, 2023.

Duties for the 16-hour a week position include:

Maintain circulation records such as patron registration and collection tracking
Communicate with patrons and other libraries regarding overdues, restrictions and invoices
Assist Inter-Library Loan Librarian with management of ILL services
Manage and coordinate library operations on Saturdays.

Ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills, organized work habits, eye for detail, comfort working in a busy and varied setting, collaborative ethic, and, ability to use and create reports and spreadsheets.

A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience as well as past library experience preferred.

A full job description can be found here: https://bit.ly/3OqT3rt. The pay range is $17.00 to $21.35 depending on experience.

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Margaret Woodruff, Library Director: margaret@charlottepubliclibrary.org. Deadline: June 5, 2023.

The Charlotte Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

– Posted 5/31/23

Director – Winhall Memorial Library (Bondville, VT)

Winhall Memorial Library, tucked away near the base of Stratton Mountain, is seeking a Director. This is a vibrant and well stocked library, newly automated and part of the Catamount Library Network. You will be stepping into a turnkey library.

Winhall Memorial Library Job Description May 2023

POSITION: Library Director/Librarian: 20 hour per week position

SUMMARY: The Librarian is responsible for the administration, supervision, and coordination of all activities and services of the library. They act as the library spokesperson, promoting the use of the library by all members of the community.

SUPERVISION: The Librarian is appointed by and responsible to the Board of Trustees.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Service to the community

Develops and maintains services that reflect and respond to the interests and needs of the community
Represents the library in the community by promoting and publicizing the library’s services and resources utilizing: the website, social media (Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter), MailChimp Newsletter, Front Porch Forum, Google Listing, and regular press releases to local publications; as well as preparing an annual account of the library to be included in the Town Report
Selects, orders, and catalogs new materials; responsible for all aspects of collection development
Provides reference, readers’ advisory, referral, and interlibrary loan services to patrons of all ages, educational levels, and economic backgrounds; helps the public use library resources and technology; supports borrowing through the Catamount Library Network’s catalog (Aspen Discovery), and manages the courier system
Provides materials and a venue for a monthly book discussion group, directs the discussion
Participates in the daily routine of the library as needed—shelving, circulating and returning materials, etc.
Plans, publicizes, carries out, and evaluates programs for all ages which further the library’s mission and raise the library’s profile in the community
Organizes displays and exhibits to promote the collection and the library’s services and provide an interesting and welcoming environment
Takes advantage of grant opportunities as appropriate, writing proposals and carrying out grants as they are awarded

Library Management

Fundraises with the Board of Trustees and writes grants as directed in the annual budget
Spends and monitors budgeted funds in a responsible manner
Attends all board meetings, reporting on library activity
Develops and evaluates procedures for the smooth running of the library
Supervises maintenance of the building, reporting problems to the Town
Collects and analyzes library statistics
Communicates and cooperates with the local and state library community, including preparing the annual statistical report and standards application for the Vermont Department of Libraries
Supervises the automation system (KOHA) and the public access computers
Attends 12 meetings per year as required by the Catamount Library Network Membership Agreement: Cataloguing (6x) and Loans (6x) groups
Monitors developments and trends in the field of librarianship, paying particular attention to Vermont, by reading professional literature and taking advantage of continuing education opportunities as available and appropriate

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

General knowledge of the principles and methods of modern library services including automated systems and electronic digital resources.
Strong organization skills
Strong communications skills
- Good written and verbal expression
- Ability to be a good listener
Commitment to customer service
- Ability to identify patron needs and requirements
- Ability to initiate development of policies, procedures, programs, and activities to meet those needs

Strong technological ability

Ability to stay up to date with new social media trends
WordPress knowledge, social media, google docs, MailChimp, etc.

Please note, the above job description describes the general nature, tasks, responsibilities, and level of work to be performed; it is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of every responsibility, duty, and skill required for the position. Depending on organizational needs, other duties may be assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree preferred, plus library-related experience and willingness to earn Vermont Public Library Certification within 3 years.

Benefits: Paid holidays, one week paid vacation annually
Hiring range: $20-$23 per hour

To apply, please send a letter of letter of interest and resume to winhallmemoriallibrary@gmail.com. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

– Posted 5/17/23

Librarian – Mary Blood Memorial Library (West Windsor, VT)

The Mary Blood Memorial Library is searching for a new Librarian. This position is currently 16 hours per week, though this could increase. The Librarian oversees one 12 hour per month Library Assistant and one part-time Youth Services Coordinator, scheduled for 10 hours per month. The Librarian meets with the library board once a month and reports to both the library board and the town select board.

Primary duties are to create a warm and welcoming resource for the community. As the sole librarian, duties include applying professional standards in collection development, programming, reference, cataloging, scheduling, managing personnel, planning, and service to the community. As a member of GMLC using KOHA, this year we began to digitize the contents of the 123 year old library.

West Windsor (and the village of Brownsville) has a small and widely dispersed population of about 1,300 people. Our library is supported by a very active “Friends of the MLB” organization. We have an amazing general store and café, a community run ski and recreation area, an active historical society, a volunteer fire department, and our Albert Bridge K-6 elementary school. We are located about ten miles west of Route 91 at the base of Mt. Ascutney.

The Mary Blood Memorial Library has recently undergone many improvements, including;

installation of a state-of-the-art HVAC system
insulated the lower level
redesigned the main reading room, purchasing comfortable and attractive seating
culled the collection of outdated material and with carefully selected contemporary books
digitizing our collection (ongoing) and created a user-friendly web site (will go live soon)
increased patron hours
implement a new library card system (ongoing)

Rate of pay is competitive and based on experience, with potential for holiday/sick/vacation pay or retirement plan in the future. MLS degree preferred and/or the Vermont Certificate of Public Librarianship. Must be able to work well with a range of ages and abilities. If interested, please send a letter of application and resume to mfepstein@gmail.com using the subject heading MLB Librarian Position Available.

– Posted 4/4/23

Outreach/Programming Librarian – Richmond Free Library (Richmond, VT)

The Richmond Free Library is seeking an Outreach and Programming Library Assistant II. This position is ideal for someone who loves the role and potential of libraries, enjoys working with people, and is a team player who can work independently and see projects to completion.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Richmond Free Library
Library Assistant 2: Outreach and Programming
Part-time, 24 hours per week, Min $18/hr
Some evening and weekend hours required

The Outreach and Programming Librarian is responsible for developing and implementing programming for the library (primarily adult, with some support of youth and family programs) and promoting the Richmond Free Library’s services, resources, and programs in the community. This person will also lead the library’s sustainability initiative to achieve certification through the Sustainable Libraries Initiative. In addition, this person will assist patrons and carry out general library services and duties as needed.

Essential Job Functions

Develops and implements effective programming and events for adults, and in conjunction with youth librarian for families and youth.
Develops, implements and monitors promotion and outreach about library services including communication through online portals, such as our webpage, Facebook page, and Front Porch Forum; posters; local print newspapers and online calendars with direction from the Director and Youth Librarian.
Pursues certification through the Sustainable Library Initiative, embedding the concepts of triple bottom line sustainability (using practices that are environmentally sound, economically feasible, and socially equitable) into library practices, and communicating the library’s efforts to become a leader in environmental sustainability to the wider community.
Knowledge of and ability to facilitate use of digital resources such as Libby, Hoopla or Library’s catalog with patrons.
Fosters collaborative relationships with individuals and organizations.
Assists patrons and carries out general library services as needed.

Experience and Qualifications

Professional experience in a public library setting is preferred.
Familiarity with and passion for the role and importance of public libraries.
Demonstrated results in creating engaging, successful programming, and event management with diverse topics.
Familiarity with digital communication avenues and demonstrated ability to promote/market events, programs and services through various channels.
Knowledge of PC/Windows functions and applications (including Microsoft Office, Internet browsers, associated devices, email applications, basic technical trouble-shooting).
Attention to detail and careful accuracy in work.
Excellent written and verbal skills and public speaking ability.

Education

BA or BS required

Physical Requirements

Work is performed under typical library and office conditions. Duties require intermittent light to moderate physical effort in carrying, lifting, or moving materials, boxes, or equipment. Duties may also include some general maintenance, such as light cleaning, removal of trash and recycling, and snow shoveling.

Please send a cover letter and resume to Richmond, Library Director, Rebecca Mueller, at library@richmondvt.gov or Richmond Free Library, PO Box 997, Richmond VT 05477.

– Posted 4/4/23

Library Services Coordinator and Library Substitutes – Tucker Free Library (Henniker, NH)

BUILDING OUR TEAM AT TUCKER FREE LIBRARY, HENNIKER NH

Join the staff of our award-winning library!

We are looking for the people who fit within our organizational value system and the ideal candidates must possess a willingness and interest in expanding one’s skills and learning new job activities. As our world changes our staff have greatly broadened their skills and taken on new tasks seemingly unrelated to “library skills”. We want staff members who are courageous, willing to seek out and take on new challenges.

Library experience is not required. We will train you on library particulars.

POSITIONS INCLUDE:

Library Services Coordinator (28 hours per week)

Library Substitutes (per need)

GO TO OUR WEBSITE AND READ THE JOB DESCRIPTION AND SPECIFIC DIRECTION TO TAKE IN COMPOSING YOUR COVER LETTER.

EMAIL RESUME & COVER LETTER TO:

Please indicate in the SUBJECT LINE which position you are applying for.

Lynn M. Piotrowicz
Tucker Free Library
PO BOX 688
Henniker, NH 03242
tuckerfree@comcast.net

The Tucker Free Library is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All are welcome to apply.

Review of applications will begin on April 5th. The positions remain open until filled. To see full details, go to tuckerfreelibrary.org

– Posted 4/3/23

Help/Reference Desk – Rutland Free Library (Rutland, VT)

Rutland Free Library is looking for a librarian for our Help / reference Desk. Primary duties include assisting users with our public computers — especially printing — basic upkeep of public computers, readers’ advisory, and generally helping users access the collection and find their way around the building.

An ideal candidate will have a degree in library and information science but experience working in a reference environment will be considered in lieu of a degree. Good technology skills are a must. We use Koha, Aspen, Deep Freeze, Comprise, Assabet, Libby, Palace, and Kanopy software, and troubleshooting print jobs is pretty much a daily task.

Rutland Free Library is an independent, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose sole responsibility is providing library services to the communities of Rutland City, Rutland Town, Mendon, Tinmouth, and Ira, which support our work through taxes. We are large only by Vermont standards, with some 80,000 titles available. We lend in print, ebook, audiobook on CD, as well as streaming video, music, and audiobooks.

This is a 15-hour position with limited prorated benefits. It will require some evening and Saturday work shared among librarians. Starting wage is $29.03 / hour.

Please send a résumé and letter of interest to Director Randal Smathers at randal@rutlandfree.org.

Applications will close Monday, March 13.

– Posted 3/4/23

Library Director – Stowe Free Library (Stowe, VT)

The Town of Stowe is seeking to hire a full-time Library Director. The Stowe Free Library is dedicated to providing a welcoming public space that inspires learning, advances knowledge, enriches lives and encourages lifelong learning. Our mission is To Welcome…To Inspire…To Enrich the Mind

The Library Director is responsible for managing library operations including programming, goal setting, library planning, collection development, supervision and managing the operating budget. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated administrative skills managing library functions and leading a team of employees in carrying out the Library Trustee’s vision, goals, and strategic plan. The Librarian should have excellent customer service skills and be proficient with library technology. The Library Director will promote a safe, respectful, and collaborative team culture through positive role modeling and strong communications skills.

A Master’s Degree in Library Science or related field, with three years of experience in library operations, budgeting and employee supervision is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Pay range is $70,177-$78,937, dependent upon experience. The Town of Stowe currently offers an excellent benefit package including health and dental insurance, paid leave, a generously matched retirement plan, life insurance and more.

Job descriptions and employment application can be obtained at: www.townofstowevt.org. Submit application, letter of interest, resume, references, and salary requirements to: Town of Stowe, c/o HR Director, PO Box 730, Stowe, VT 05672 or by email recruit@stowevt.gov. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The Town of Stowe is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Library is located in an historic mid-19^th century building in the heart of the community next to Stowe Elementary School. Stowe is a premier four season destination particularly renowned for its alpine and Nordic recreation, mountain biking, hiking and world class spas. The community comes alive with festivals, shopping and dining opportunities with activities for everyone in all seasons. Stowe has made the most out of its natural setting– the mountains, the forests and fields, clear mountain streams and fine air to carve out an appealing, enduring, distinctively New England style of life. What makes it truly special is that Stowe is also a place people call home.

– Posted 2/16/23

Technical Services Librarian – Stowe Free Library (Stowe, VT)

The Stowe Free Library is seeking to hire a full-time Technical Services Librarian who is dedicated, friendly, and customer service oriented. The Technical Services Librarian maintains the library’s automated library catalogue system, prepares items in all formats for the library collection, performs interlibrary loan (ILL) services, and supports library operations.

The individual selected will have demonstrated technology skills including library systems, social networking tools and web-based applications. The Technical Services Librarian will contribute to a safe, respectful and collaborative team culture through a positive attitude and strong communications skills.

A master’s degree in library science from an ALA-accredited school or a Vermont Department of Libraries certification is preferred. A Bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, is required.

Pay range is $20.78-$22.59, dependent upon experience. Includes evening shifts with occasional weekend shifts as well. The Town of Stowe currently offers an excellent benefit package including health and dental insurance, paid leave, a generously matched retirement plan, life insurance and more.

If you have a passion to Welcome, Inspire and Enrich the mind, please do not hesitate to apply.

Job description and employment application can be obtained at: www.townofstowevt.org. Submit application, letter of interest, resume, references, and salary requirements to: Town of Stowe, c/o HR Director, PO Box 730, Stowe, VT 05672 or by email recruit@stowevt.gov. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The Town of Stowe is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

– Posted 1/18/23

VLA President’s Letter

Whether we like it or not, the world in which we are currently living—sore throat, mask, test, repeat—is not going to change in the foreseeable future. So, it is up to each one of us to make this “new normal” better than before. What does this mean in the library world?

Hopefully, COVID has taught us to be more accessible—or at the very least, loosen our requirements for access. Maybe your library initiated an online registration tool or simply mailed paper registration forms to patrons’ homes. Is it feasible to keep these accommodations? Doubting Debbie (I mean no disrespect to anyone named Deborah) will say, “The library is back to its full schedule of hours. There is no reason why we need to keep offering this service.” But what if your pre-COVID hours didn’t work for the person’s schedule? They may work multiple jobs or lack reliable transportation. However, once they have their library card they can access all your online resources when their schedule allows. Do a cost vs. reward analysis to see if it is worth keeping. My guess is if you have chosen librarianship as a profession, you will find a way to efficiently offer this service to your community.

On the flip side, look for processes, programs, or policies that can be updated or weeded—“because we’ve always done it that way” no longer holds water. Are you still keeping paper copies of patron information already stored electronically? Does your program lineup look similar to that from the 1950s? Do you offer a virtual option for meetings and programs? Does your cell phone policy limit use to certain areas due to fear of disturbing other users? Are your bathrooms still gender specific? Be brave enough to be uncomfortable and your patrons will thank you!

Our communities, whether they are large universities, bucolic towns, or tiny hamlets, are all composed of smaller sections that need to work together in order to create a dynamic, cohesive unit. That means we all need to put our egos aside, and maybe even that argument that happened three town managers ago, to find a way to work together. Take the initiative and sit next to the person who rubs you the wrong way at the next meeting. You may discover some small similarity on which you can build a relationship that will benefit not just the library, but the community at large. Now can be a considerable time of growth. It will require very little, if any money, but a great deal of dedication and enthusiasm.

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and starting on the first one.”
–Mark Twain

Kelly L. McCagg

Vermont Library Association President
Director, Burnham Memorial Library
president@vermontlibraries.org
November 2022
(This letter was first published in the November 2022 VLA News email newsletter, sent quarterly to Vermont Library Association members.)