Tag Archives: Public Libraries

Library Director- Fairlee Public Library, Fairlee, VT

About Us:  The Fairlee Public Library is seeking a creative, collaborative and enthusiastic Library Director for this rural, small town library located in Fairlee, VT. The library needs a director that is community oriented and able to work with patrons of all ages. The successful candidate will be self-motivated as this is a mostly solo-librarian position with a 10 hour assistant. The start date for this position will be April 2025.

The Position: The Director oversees all library functions including collection development, programming, budget management, technology, technical services, supervising volunteers, reference, readers’ advisory, and the administrative duties of the library. This position is for 35 hours per week. The library is open to the public 25 hours with 10 hours as programming and administrative hours.

Hours & Salary: This is a 35 hour per week position. Evening and weekend hours are required. The salary is commensurate with experience. This is a fully benefited position including medical, dental, and vision. As a town employee this position is offered vacation, sick and personal hours each year. A matched retirement plan begins after 5 years.

Qualifications: ALA-accredited degree in Library and/or Information Science OR Vermont Library Certification is preferred. A candidate with a Bachelor’s degree and experience in the library field will be considered if willing to earn the Vermont Library Certification within two years. Knowledge of the KOHA operating system and Ingram Services for material purchasing is also desired.

To Apply: Please send an email including a cover letter, resume, and three references to Elizabeth Reynolds, Director, to fairlee.library@gmail.com  A criminal background check is required. For full job description go to http://www.fairleelibrary.com/jobs.html. EOE.

– Posted 1/17/25

Circulation Assistant – Fletcher Free Library (Burlington, VT)

FLETCHER FREE LIBRARY – Library Assistant I Circulation, Part-time
Salary $26.21 Hourly
Opening Date: 12/16/24 — Closing Date 01/01/25

General Purpose
This position is responsible for performing patron service, technology assistance and general clerical work at the circulation desk. This position includes one weekend day per week and will work at both our downtown branch and our New North End branch.

Please note the schedule for this position is 20 hours/week, Monday, Wednesday and Sunday.

Union Affiliation: American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME)

Essential Job Functions

  • Greet and respond to patron requests for information and materials and assistance in person, by telephone, by email, through web forms or via the Vermont Clover (Inter Library Loan) System.
  • Provide general patron orientation to Library collections and use of the Library
  • Direct patrons to appropriate places or to other library staff as needed to best meet the patron needs.
  • Maintain decorum for the library per library policies and procedures.
  • Provide a variety of patron services using a fully integrated automated library system, including but not limited to; entering patron data, such as name and address and issuing library cards; recording changes of address/name and using the notes field to record special circumstances, charging library materials in-and-out.
  • Processing overdue notices and bills to meet deadlines set forth by library systems administrator; including but not limited to; telephoning delinquent accounts.
  •  Receiving fines and donations and crediting patron accounts by either cash, check or charge through MuniciPay System Use cash register accordingly
  •  Searching the automated catalog to place holds; and process reserves and patron requests for information; renewing library books and materials for patrons in-house or over the telephone using ILS system.  Use and help patrons with the OPAC as needed
  • Answer phone calls, phone requests, take and distribute messages. Perform ready reference as needed.
  • Research, receive order and expend and process library books and materials, check in and distribute incoming mail, and collect, seal and stamp outgoing mail.
  • Handle cash receipts and keep records of disbursements and balance cash on hand at the end of day.
  • Assist in shelving library materials – alphabetically or numerically – in stacks as needed.
  • Conduct basic bibliographic research for patrons and displays.
  • Prepare materials for circulation; i.e. put carts in order, check in.
  • Research and prepare order form for patron requests and provide correct information for Selectors or inter-library loan department.
  • Schedule conferences rooms.
  • Responsible for opening and closing procedure for library.
  • Report violations of library rules or other conduct effecting library security to supervisor.
  • Assists with trespass notices as needed. Perform incident documentation through library intranet.
  • Performs necessary data collection and reporting for circulation and reference statistics.
  • Performs on demand room bookings.
  • Maintain and create book displays and Bulletin boards.
  • Report violations of library rules or other conduct effecting library security to supervisor. Assists with trespass notices as needed.
  • Perform light custodial and grounds maintenance tasks as needed.

Qualifications/Basic Job Requirements

  • Ability to actively support City diversity, equity, and cultural competency efforts within stated job responsibilities and work effectively across diverse cultures and constituencies.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion as evidenced by ongoing trainings and professional development.
  • High School diploma or equivalent required.
  • Two years in public service setting in an office, professional and/or library environment required.
  • Associates degree and two years work experience in office setting, customer service experience preferred.
  • Ability to interact with co-workers and public in a professional and courtesy manner.
  • Ability to learn and use fully integrated automated library system.
  • Ability to file alphabetically, numerically and to learn the Dewey Decimal filing system.
  • Ability to type 40 wpm.
  • Familiarity with computers, word processing, accounting software and automated library systems, and standard office equipment.
  • Proficient knowledge of including but not limited to Microsoft, Word, Excel.
  • Ability to actively learn and teach library 3rd party vendor platforms such as downloadable ebooks, downloadable audiobooks, movie streaming and other online resources.
  • Knowledge of internet usage and email and standard office equipment.
  • Ability to obtain a working knowledge of all department operations and procedures and relevant City policies.
  • Regular attendance is necessary and is essential to meeting the expectations of the job functions.
  • Ability to understand and comply with City standards, safety rules and personnel policies.
  • Ability to learn and interpret department polices and procedures.
  • Ability to communicate to co-workers and general public orally effectively orally and in writing.  
  • Ability to multi-task in a busy environment.
  • Work is performed in a public service library setting, which will require some evening and weekend work.
  • Able to handle volatile or potentially dangerous individuals and situations following library procedures.
  • Work required standing for long periods.
  • Work requires the ability to lift, stretch and bend.

Additional Information

Promoting a culture that reveres diversity and equity.

The City of Burlington is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we are strongly committed to creating a dynamic and equitable work-force that mirrors the population and world that we serve. We do not discriminate on the basis of political or religious affiliation, race, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, crime victim status, veteran status, disability, HIV positive status, or genetic information in employment or the provision of services.

In addition to being an equal opportunity employer we actively encourage applicants who can contribute to our growing diversity to apply.

Applications for our employment opportunities are only accepted online through our Government Jobs website.

For accessibility information or alternative formats, please contact Human Resources Department at 802-540-2505 or careers@burlingtonvt.gov.

– Posted 12/30/24

Youth Services Librarian – Springfield Town Library (Springfield, VT)

The Town of Springfield, VT announces an opening for a Youth Services Librarian position, a full-time, team-oriented role (35 hours per week). We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply, as we are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our community.

We are looking for a creative, passionate individual with a strong desire to work with children and young adults in a public service setting. The ideal candidate will bring enthusiasm and a commitment to supporting the growth and development of youth through library services. If you are dedicated to creating positive, engaging experiences for children and young adults, we invite you to join our dynamic team!

As part of our commitment to being a future-ready library, the Youth Services Librarian will play a key role in helping the library achieve Sustainable Library Certification. This includes promoting environmentally responsible practices and ensuring that all individuals feel welcome and included in our library’s programs and services.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Plan, develop, and implement library programs and services for children and young adults.
  • Provide professional expertise in library operations and youth services.
  • Collaborate with the Library Director to set goals and objectives for youth services, including budget preparation and grant applications.
  • Foster a love for reading, learning, and sustainability among young patrons.
  • Manage the library in the absence of the Library Director

Qualifications:

  • A Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited university, OR
  • A Bachelor’s Degree with Certification as a Public Librarian by the VT Dept. of Libraries, OR
  • A combination of education and experience demonstrating extensive knowledge of library services for children and young adults.

We value diverse experiences and backgrounds and encourage applicants from all communities, including individuals of various racial, ethnic, and cultural identities, gender identities, and life experiences. Your unique perspective will contribute to the richness of our services and programs for youth in Springfield.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • $24.46 – $30.35 per hour, based on experience
  • Non-exempt Union position with excellent benefits

To apply, please visit the Human Resources Office at 96 Main Street or contact us at (802) 885-2104 or toshr@vermontel.net. A complete job description and application form are available at  https://springfieldvt.govoffice2.com/jobs.

The Town of Springfield is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

– Posted 12/30/24

Library Assistant – Lydia Taft Pratt Library (Dummerston, VT)

Lydia Taft Pratt Library in Dummerston, VT seeks a part-time Library Assistant to help launch a new grant-funded Children’s Literacy and Library Services program

Roles and responsibilities

Roles and responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to:

  • Staffing the children’s room to provide circulation and readers advisory services
  • Working together with the library director to design and implement passive and active library programming for children and families
  • Coordinating Storytime Program with volunteers
  • Publicity and outreach to promote the library’s services for children
  • Maintain statistics on usage of children’s services and programs
  • Work with director to refine and implement the collection policy as well as the budget for children’s materials and services
  • Other projects as appropriate

Qualifications

Our ideal candidate has training and/or experience in early childhood education as well as in library services.  A knowledge of Dummerston entities and organizations is extremely helpful.

Hours and Compensation

The position is funded from January 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025 for 12 hours/week at $18/hour before taxes.

Hours are TBD together with the library director, but will likely include working alternating Saturdays in addition to weekday morning and afternoon hours.

To Apply

Please email a cover letter, resume, and list of two professional references to Library Director Dena Marger at dummerstonvtlibrary@gmail.com.  Closing date: Friday, January 3, 2025

– Posted 12/21/24

Executive Director – Manchester Community Library (Manchester, VT)

Manchester Community Library (www.mclvt.org)
Manchester, Vermont
Executive Director
On or before July 1, 2025

OVERVIEW

The Manchester Community Library (MCL), the modern offspring of the town’s Mark Skinner Library, founded in 1897, seeks a creative and inspiring Executive Director to lead the organization to the next level in its never-ending quest to simultaneously be a 21st century library and a community hub for residents of Manchester, Vermont, and surrounding towns in Bennington County.

Reporting to the 13-member Board of Trustees, the new Executive Director will lead a staff of 10 augmented by a corps of volunteers that will provide patrons with a broad mix of services and programs within its 18,500 square foot building that opened in 2014. In the last fiscal year, MCL attracted over 58,000 visitors and conducted over 1,000 programs.

Key responsibilities include the administration and operations of the Library, staff and Board management, oversight of all fundraising, marketing and public relations, and advocacy for the Library and general outreach to residents, patrons and town office holders.

The operating budget for the Library is roughly $1 million, with revenue streams provided by an appropriation from the town of Manchester approved each year by its taxpayers (26.1% of revenues), endowment income (17.2%), and philanthropic support from individuals, corporations, and other sources (56.7%).

The Library’s tagline – “Meet you at The Library” – speaks to the essence of small-town character. MCL’s chief ambition is to connect residents with one another by providing a welcoming and comfortable place that also provides access to tools and information and presents compelling programs for kids and adults of all ages.

MISSION: The Manchester Community Library is open to all as an inspiring gathering place for the community, providing resources for personal enrichment and growth.

VISION: The Manchester Community Library will be a hub of the community through our role as a trusted resource providing unique, essential, and innovative services; and by creating a welcoming and stimulating environment for learning and social connection. 

MANCHESTER, VERMONT

Ideally located in southwestern Vermont, Manchester is easily accessible to the rest of the Northeast but tucked into the Green Mountains in the picturesque Battenkill River Valley.

Manchester has a year-round population of slightly less than 5,000 and boasts excellent schools, an array of recreation facilities, superb restaurants, top notch cultural institutions, and four-season outdoor activities. To learn more about Manchester and the surrounding area, click HERE.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Executive Director is responsible for management oversight of the organization including design and implementation of all fundraising and development activities, supervising all staff, and working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees to ensure the financial integrity and accountability of the organization. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director must possess the following attributes and experiences:

Inspiring Community Ambassador and Leader

Someone who can:

  • devote him or herself to the patron experience;
  • model integrity, transparency and empathy;
  • lead by personal example;
  • hold him or herself personally accountable;
  • establish and maintain positive relationships with the Town of Manchester, its manager and Selectboard, and other regional community organizations and libraries.

Operational Experience and Expertise

Someone who can:

  • hire, manage, mentor and evaluate staff and is a proponent of professional development;
  • create and oversee administrative policies and procedures;
  • create, implement and manage the operating budget;
  • coordinate support and implement Board priorities;
  • oversee the maintenance and enhancement of Library facilities;
  • cultivate and integrate volunteers;
  • ensure stewardship of the endowment

Excellent Interpersonal Skills

Someone who:

  • is committed to collaboration and a team culture;
  • is supportive and affirms relationships;
  • has a positive perspective;
  • is proactive, with a great deal of initiative and a can-do attitude;
  • can work productively and positively with a wide range of diverse constituents.

Fundraising Acumen

Someone who:

  • has the ability to tell constituents where the library is headed, and why;
  • possesses the ability to build strong relationships with current donors, and cultivate new ones;
  • enjoys telling stories that resonate with donors;
  • has the knowledge of the basics of fundraising, including identifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding donors and prospects;
  • possesses the ability and courage to ask for money in a compelling and thoughtful manner.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

  • A BA or BS is required; a Master of Library Science degree or Library Professional Certification preferable, but not absolutely essential;
  • Five years of non-profit management/administrative experience;
  • Expertise in fundraising, marketing and technology;
  • Excellent communication skills – written, editing, speaking and social media;
  • Willingness and ability to work flexible hours;
  • Avid reader;
  • Conviction in MCL’s culture, mission, and vision.

TO APPLY

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to apply in confidence. Candidates will ultimately need to submit the following materials as separate PDF documents:

  • A cover letter expressing your interest in this particular position.
  • A current résumé.
  • A list of five professional references with name, relationship, phone number, and email address of each (references will not be contacted without the candidate’s permission) to:

– Posted 12/17/24

UPDATED: Library Director – Abbott Library (Sunapee, NH)

Description:
The Abbott Library located in Sunapee NH, a small New England town that enjoys proximity to Lake Sunapee and Mount Sunapee, is seeking an innovative, energetic, experienced and future-ready library professional to provide leadership to its vibrant community library. The Director will oversee a staff of thirteen employees (6 FTE equivalent). This staff includes a full-time Assistant Director, Technology, Youth and Children’s Librarian, and Public Services Librarian as well as several part-time staff. In addition, the library enjoys the support of more than 1300 hours of volunteer service each year. The Director is also responsible for administration, management, (including fiscal oversight) and advocacy for the library. The ideal candidate is a strategic problem solver who is flexible, positive, creative, patient, decisive, and technologically adroit. Additionally, the ideal candidate has demonstrated success aligning people, process and technology;
excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal and customer relationship skills; and is committed to outstanding patron service. A finely tuned sense of humor is not required but highly desirable.

The library serves a community of approximately 3400 year-round residents and a large seasonal community. It operates with an annual budget of $600,000. The construction of the library building was completed in 2014, and it offers meeting rooms for library and community use, a fireplace, comfortable seating, and a beautiful view of Mount Sunapee.

The Director will work closely with the Board of Trustees, the Friends of the Library and the Abbott Library Foundation to raise funds and advocate for the library. In past years, these organizations have contributed approximately $50,000 annually in additional funding for the library.

The salary for this position is $75,600 – 109,304 with an excellent benefits package including health and dental insurance, short-term and long-term disability and participation in the New Hampshire Retirement System.

Applications received before January 24, 2025 will receive first consideration. The position will remain open until filled. A full job description is available by request.

Qualifications:
Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited school is strongly preferred. Two to five years of progressively responsible experience in professional library work, including three years of administrative and supervisory responsibility in a library setting is desired.

How to Apply:
If interested, please send a letter of application, resume, and three references by email to: directorsearch@abbottlibrary.org

– Updated 12/17/24

Youth Services Librarian – Pease Public Library (Plymouth, NH)

LOCATION: Pease Public Library, Plymouth, N.H.
REPORTS TO: Assistant Director and Director
TITLE: Youth Services Librarian
HOURS: 40 Hours/week
STARTING PAY: $17.40-20.27/hour depending on experience
BENEFITS: Medical and Dental Insurance, Paid Holidays, sick and personal time, NH Retirement

DESCRIPTION: The Pease Public Library in Plymouth, NH is seeking a Youth Services Librarian with excellent communication skills. Applicants must be able to demonstrate flexibility, good judgment and good humor under varying circumstances. The ability to multi-task and provide quality customer service is essential. Must be a community-oriented, hands-on team player. Must be prepared to attend staff meetings, remain current on professional trends and assist in planning team projects. Some Saturday and evening hours are required. Must enjoy working with children, teens and their families.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Plans, coordinates, and implements programming for children and young adults such as weekly story time for those under 6, science programs, summer reading program, and having outside presenters.  These programs consist of music and movement, crafts, educational activities, and resources for children and their adult caregivers.
  • Enhances the programs of local schools by providing complementary services.
  • Manages the materials collection for children and young adults which includes weeding, using book review resources and purchasing materials. Catalogs and processes materials for children and young adults, gifts, and purchases.
  • Provides customer services in the form of answering patron emails, providing reader’s advisory, helping patrons find materials, computer and other technology instruction and helping with OverDrive.
  • Performs routine circulation desks tasks*
  • Supervises the daily operation of the children’s room and the young adult room.  Upholds the library’s behavior and child safety policies.
  • Creates promotional materials for children’s and young adult programming.  Maintains the children and young adult sections of the library website and posts on social media regarding children and young adult programming.
  • Compiles programming statistics and submits statistics to Director.
  • Performs outreach to schools and other local agencies for programming, especially summer reading program.
  • Performs similar or related work as required, directed or as situation dictates.

*Routine Circulation Desk Shifts tend to include: Checking materials in and out, Registering new patrons, Answering the telephone, Organizing reserve materials, Scheduling meeting spaces and events, Assists patrons in using the library’s public computers and the software available on them

QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s Degree in education or library science; three to five years of related work experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Plymouth, N.H. is a vibrant community committed to diversity, arts and education. The Pease Public Library Staff is honored to play a role in serving its citizens with current information, technology, and quality entertainment. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to the following by December 31, 2024:

rwhite@peasepubliclibrary.org

Or mail to:
Becky White, Library Director
Pease Public Library
1 Russell Street
Plymouth, N.H. 03264

No phone calls, please.

– Posted 11/21/24

School Outreach Librarian – Cobleigh Public Library (Lyndonville, VT)

The Cobleigh Library, in partnership with Kingdom East School District, is hiring a part-time School Outreach Librarian. The average work week is to be 20 hours, Monday through Thursday, to coincide with the Kingdom East Afterschool Program (KEAP.) The position will serve all 7 KESD schools, including Lyndon, Burke, Newark, Miller’s Run, Sutton, Concord, and Lunenberg. Compensation is $18.00/hr and the duration coincides with the KESD spring semester and ends in mid-June, though there is high potential the position will continue to be funded for longer. The goal is to support the students in KEAP by providing enriching library programming, while helping forge a mutually beneficial relationship between the library and the schools.

Responsibilities:

  • Creating educational and dynamic after school enrichment programs for students in grades K-4
  • Working with school and library leadership to develop programs that both underscore curricula and highlight library resources
  • Develop strong familiarity with the resources of the Cobleigh Library and make suggestions for how best to expand those resources to better serve the students and staff at KESD
  • Driving the library’s bookmobile

Requirements:

  • Clean driving record and valid driver’s license, as well as ready access to a reliable vehicle
  • Ability to pass a KESD background check
  • 2-4 years of library or teaching experience, or equivalent experience
  • Integrity and ability to work independently
  • Ability to learn and teach a variety of subjects

Duties:

This is an experimental position that has the potential to take on more hours and responsibilities. At the outset, the School Outreach Librarian will be using the Cobleigh Library Bookmobile to reach KESD schools. Enrichment programming will take on many different forms – from crafts and STEM projects to storytimes and tech tutorials. The goal of this position is to help bring library resources – which includes books, films, toys, kits, and e-resources, among others – to the schools and to help expand student access to all that the library offers.

To apply, please drop off a resume, cover letter, and 2 references. Or email to: bryn@cobleighlibrary.org

EOE

– Posted 11/13/24

Children’s Librarian – Craftsbury Public Library (Craftsbury Common, VT)

The Craftsbury Public Library is hiring a Children’s Librarian.  To apply, please send cover letter, resume, and three references to director@craftsburypubliclibrary.org.
 
SUMMARY: The job of the Children’s Librarian is to provide opportunities for babies, children, and teenagers in Craftsbury and the surrounding communities to read, think, and learn. The Children’s Librarian ensures a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere in the library.
 
REQUIREMENTS: The Children’s Librarian will have experience working with young children and early literacy training and skills, and will have a strong background in children’s literature. They must possess a bachelor’s degree, and will be committed to continuing their education in the field of library science and early literacy. They will possess computer skills and be competent and confident helping others with technology issues. The Children’s Librarian will work independently within a collaborative environment.
 
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. Organize and lead weekly year-round story time for both baby/toddler and preschool age children on Tuesdays and possibly Fridays. Arrange for uninterrupted story time coverage through volunteers when unavailable.
  2. Organize, promote, and implement programming for elementary school age children and teenagers. Mentor teen volunteers as opportunities arise.  Create promotional materials for all youth-related programming, including posters, social media, and press releases.
  3. Maintain and develop the children’s collection, giving consideration to inclusive and diverse materials.
  4. Maintain a pleasant, clean environment in the children’s room and playground. Shelve books or oversee volunteer shelvers, keep toys and games organized, rotate displays and passive activities available.
  5. Coordinate and implement summer reading program including summer grant application.
  6. Provide early literacy support to parents and caregivers, and increase awareness of the importance of early literacy skills.
  7. Collaborate and maintain relationships with the public school, afterschool programs, preschools and childcare organizations, and other community organizations to promote literacy within the community. Provide monthly outreach services to daycares and preschool facilities within the community.
  8. Provide readers’ advisory services to children and families.
  9. General library duties such as coverage of the circulation desk, and providing computer and reference assistance as needed.
 
HIRING AND SUPERVISION: The Library Director will be responsible for the hiring and supervision of the Children’s Librarian.
 
HOURS & COMPENSATION: This position is for a minimum of 8 hours weekly, and could expand to 16 hours with the implementation of services to all age levels. Starting pay range is $18.00-$19.00/hour depending on experience. Tuesday morning story time is required, and other hours may be scheduled depending on needs of the library and staff.
 
– Posted 11/12/24

Library Director – Grand Isle Free Library (Grand Isle, VT)

The Grand Isle Free Library (Vermont) has an opening for Library Director.  The Director is responsible for all facets of running the library including but not limited to day-to-day operations, maintaining a welcoming environment, programming, interlibrary loans, input on the annual budget, carrying out policies and working with the Board of Trustees. Input on the planning and design of a new library building, expected to open by end of December 2026, would be welcome and beneficial.
 
The position is currently part-time – 26 hours per week, 20 of which are open Library time. Salary commensurate with experience/qualifications; benefits provided. Applicants should have a working knowledge of basic public library concepts and resources and possess a Library Science Degree/Vermont Certificate of Librarianship or be in active pursuit of either.  Those interested in the position may provide a cover letter and resume by November 21, 2024 to Karen Allen by e-mail to: k.allen@grandislevt.gov.
 
– Posted 11/7/24