Patron Services and Outreach Coordinator – Waterbury Public Library (Waterbury, VT)

Summary
The Patron Services and Outreach Coordinator provides friendly, timely, and courteous service to patrons in-library and off-site. This position is responsible for performing patron service, technology assistance and general clerical work at the Help Desk. This employee manages patron records and the flow of items loaned to local patrons, and provides patrons with assistance in their research, provides some outreach services and youth programming support, and oversees volunteers for a variety of library needs.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Assist library patrons before other duties, both in person and on the phone;
Provide a welcoming atmosphere for all patrons;
Provide reader’s advisory services;
Assist patrons with research including catalog and Inter Library Loans searches;
Register and familiarize new patrons with library services;
Manage and maintain the Help Desk to provide orderly circulation of library materials to patrons, including maintenance and creation of informational pamphlets and circulation related forms; handle program registrations;
Maintain the patron database and provide a variety of patron services and reports using the library’s fully integrated automated library system
Assist with collection of circulation and visit statistics as required; assist with compiling appropriate statistics;
Receive fines and donations; handle petty cash receipts and records;
Provide occasional outreach services outside the Library, such as delivery for homebound patrons, child care providers, senior housing; create positive relationships with partner organizations;
A valid driver’s license and the ability to drive own personal vehicle with valid insurance to some off-site locations (Reimbursement will be provided for mileage.);
Assist with the training of new staff and subs and maintain and update circulation and volunteer procedure documents;
Assist with Youth Programming on occasion;
Along with the Library Director, manage library volunteers, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and recognition;
Create and arrange library displays and self-directed (“passive”) programs along with other staff;
Notify staff of comments and suggestions received at the circulation desk; refer problems to Library Director or Assistant Librarian;
Support advertising of events and services with displays, communications at the circulation desk and select social media including Instagram, Facebook and Front Porch Forum and occasionally produce physical fliers
Contributes to the Library’s website content
Attend workshops, webinars and conferences to keep abreast of changes in library science; attend monthly staff meetings and other trainings;
Assume additional duties as required.

PREFERRED TECHNOLOGY SKILLS:

Basic skills in Excel;
Intermediate proficiency in Word, Publisher or Canva, email, social media, internet and database searching, fax, scanner, photocopiers, audio-visual equipment, and common electronic tablets and readers;
Ability to gain proficiency in Circulation, Patron, and Searching modules of the library’s ILS, and databases to which the library subscribes.
Ability to actively learn and teach library third party vendor platforms such as downloadable e- and audiobooks, streaming and other online resources.

Work place communication

Maintains a professional attitude and conduct in relationships with colleagues.
Fosters a congenial workplace atmosphere that supports all staff.
Communicates effectively with other staff.

OTHER

Attention to detail;
Ability to interact with co-workers and the public in a professional and courteous manner;
The ability to communicate in writing so as to represent the Library with professionalism;
A commitment to serving with equity across diverse cultures and constituencies;
Availability to work some evening and Saturday hours.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Must hold a Bachelor’s degree. Vermont Public Library Certification is desirable, or a MLIS from an ALA accredited program. Experience in a library setting is preferred or an equivalent combination of knowledge and experience in working with a broad community with in-person customer service.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:
This position receives supervision from the Library Director.

SUPERVISON PERFORMED:
This position supervises adult and student volunteers.

Pay starts at $19.00 an hour.

– Posted 5/10/23

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

Assistant Director – Newbury Public Library (Newbury, NH)

The Newbury Public Library in Newbury New Hampshire seeks an enthusiastic and experienced librarian to join our team as our Assistant Director. As Assistant Director, you will be an essential part of our small but vibrant community library, staffing the circulation desk, supervising the building and staff in the Director’s absence, handling InterLibrary Loans, managing collections, and developing programs. We are also hoping to expand in the very near future, so there is a lot of opportunity for growth, both with the physical space and with the position.

We are looking for an Assistant Director who is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, and who is not afraid to innovate and think outside the box. A successful candidate will be resourceful, technologically savvy, possess strong communication skills, and be able to provide excellent customer service to all ages.

This is a full-time position with benefits. Starting salary range is $45,000-$50,000, commensurate with experience. An MLS/MLIS degree or equivalent library experience is preferred. Position remains open until filled. The full job description is available here: http://newburynhlibrary.net/employment

Interested candidates may send cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references to: Lea McBain, director@newburynhlibrary.net

– Posted 2/9/23

Circulation Assistant – Waterbury Public Library (Waterbury, VT)

The Waterbury Public Library is seeking a reliable, well-organized individual to provide stellar customer service to a diverse clientele 20 hours per week, including Wednesday evenings and Saturdays. The ideal candidate will have strong clerical skills, comfort working with the public, and a love of books. Must have at least intermediate technology skills. Pay starts at $16.00 an hour. See our website for full position description: https://www.waterburypubliclibrary.com/. Submit resume, 2 references, and brief cover letter to rachel@waterburypubliclibrary.com.

– Posted 1/20/23

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.)