Tag Archives: Public Libraries

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

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

Youth Services Librarian – Brookline Public Library (Brookline, NH)

YOUTH SERVICES LIBRARIAN, FULL-TIME, Brookline Public Library, Brookline, NH
SALARY: $25/hour
HOURS: 40
Summary of Position: The town of Brookline, New Hampshire (5,800 pop), with its unique blend of rural charm and vibrant community, is seeking a full time Youth Services Librarian. Hours include a combination of weekdays, some evenings, and Saturdays. A positive, can-do attitude and a sense of humor are vital in this role.
The Youth Services Librarian is a dynamic, innovative & dedicated professional Librarian with a genuine passion for and commitment to working with, engaging & inspiring children of all ages and their caregivers. They plan and coordinate all aspects of youth services including collection development, community outreach and programming, as well as supervising youth services staff. All Brookline Public Library staff work in a team-oriented environment and, under the supervision of the Library Director, are responsible for assisting with library circulation, reference, readers’ advisory, collection promotion, and programming in both adult and youth service areas.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for all aspects of Youth Services for the Library
  • Maintain a fun, safe, and positive environment which encourages intellectual curiosity and a love of reading.
  • Cultivate a contemporary collection for youth ages 0-18, guided by professional reviews and suggestions from staff and patrons.
  • Supervises the daily operation of the youth room and the young adult area.  Upholds the library’s behavior and child safety policies.
  • Plan, organize, and implement programs for youth birth to 18, including coordinating with other community stakeholders.
  • Provide outreach services and community relations activities to area schools, after school programs, and other community groups.
  • Shelve Youth Services library materials and perform other stack maintenance activities including shelf reading, tidying, and weeding.
  • Create book displays that promote the library’s youth collections.
  • Stay current on trends and practices related to library youth services.
  • Supervise Library Assistant for Youth Services, Pages, and Volunteers.
  • Serve as the Library Supervisor in absence of the Library Director
  • Deliver excellent customer service for all visitors to the library.
  • Represent the library in local and regional community and professional activities.
  • Provide readers’ advisory and reference services and refers patrons to additional resources as appropriate.
  • Assist patrons with use of library services and equipment.
  • Perform all other related duties as needed including, but not limited to:
    • Staff the circulation desk and perform circulation functions including checking items in/out, reserving and renewing materials, answering the phone, collecting fees, and maintaining patron records.
    • Train Library Pages, Substitutes and Volunteers
    • Assist in maintaining the library’s website and social media.
    • May assist with Youth Services sections of the State Library Report and town Annual Report.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to deal courteously and efficiently with a diverse population of library patrons.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of youth literature and youth programming needs
  • Excellent general office, computer, and technology skills including working in a Windows environment, familiarity with Web browsers and Microsoft software, experience with any ILS software.
  • Comfortable in a fast-paced environment and able to manage time effectively.
  • Capacity to work both independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team
  • Effective written and spoken communication skills, and the ability to follow oral and written instructions.
  • Deliver excellent customer service for all visitors to the library.
  • Proven reader’s advisory skills
  • Available to work a flexible schedule including evening and weekend hours.
  • Physically able to carry/lift to 35lbs, bend low and reach high to shelve books, and push a library cart.
  • Creativity and a sense of humor preferred.
Education, Experience and Training:
  • An ALA-accredited Master’s in Library and Information Science is preferred.
  • A minimum of five (5) years in a library setting, with at least three (3) years of recent experience in Youth Services is preferred.
  • Demonstrated aptitude for programming and direction in library youth services.
Proven skills in storytelling and working with children, especially pre-school children, and their parents.
 
Benefits: Full medical and dental insurance, paid holidays, sick and personal time, NH Retirement.
To Apply: Please send cover letter, resume and contact information for three professional references to: Diane Lynch, Brookline Public Library Director at liibrary.director@brooklinenh.gov
This position will remain open until filled.
The Brookline Public Library is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
– Posted 10/31/24

Outreach and Programming Library Assistant – Richmond Free Library (Richmond, VT)

The Richmond Free Library is seeking an Outreach and Programming Library Assistant. 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
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 curate our art displays and assist with book displays and our growing Library of Things. 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 programs & library services including communication through online portals, such as our webpage, Facebook and Instagram pages, and Front Porch Forum; posters; local print newspapers and online calendars with direction from the Director and Youth Librarian.
  • Organizes art shows for library gallery space.
  • Monitors, curates and grows the Library of Things in conjunction with the Director.
  • Knowledge of and ability to facilitate use of digital resources such as Libby, Hoopla and 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.
  • Experience working with volunteers is preferred.
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.
 
Compensation: This is a part-time position of 24 hours per week and includes paid holidays, vacation, sick time and retirement benefits through VMERS. This role requires some weekend and evening availability. Pay begins at $20.91/hr.
 
Application review will begin on October 2nd and continue until the position is filled.
Please send a cover letter, resume and three references to Richmond Free Library, Assistant Director, Wendy DeForest, at wdeforest@richmondvt.gov or Richmond Free Library, PO Box 997, Richmond VT 05477.
 
– Posted 9/18/24

Circulation Specialist – South Burlington Public Library (South Burlington, VT)

The South Burlington Public Library is seeking a full time Circulation Specialist who will support the Circulation Librarian to ensure a friendly, effective and efficient library experience and to provide optimal accessibility to the library’s collection and services. This position is responsible for several administrative systems including overdues, supplies and budgets. The Circulation Specialist will carry out routine Circulation Desk duties and assist the Librarian with defining and implementing new and existing circulation and reader’s advisory procedures. They will oversee community volunteers and will work well with all departments, cross training at other desks as needed. $47,590.40 and excellent benefits. Join us!  Read more at the City job board.

– Posted 9/7/24

Library Director – Maxfield Public Library (Loudon, NH)

The Maxfield Public Library is seeking a new Library Director who is enthusiastic, knowledgeable, professional, and possesses excellent leadership skills.

The Maxfield Public Library recently received a modern expansion and boasts a fireplace reading area, children’s craft and activities room, and large multi-purpose meeting room with a kitchenette and an array of digital media equipment.

Loudon is only 5 miles from Concord, the State Capitol. Other great attractions like the White Mountains, Boston, the seacoast, and skiing, are all within a one-hour drive. Loudon is a quaint New Hampshire town and nearly half of our residents are registered library card holders and patrons of the Library. The new Library Director will be leading our outstanding current staff including a full-time Youth Services Librarian.

Salary and Benefits: 

Full time, 40 hours per week, position with an annual salary range of $51,000 to $56,000. Salary is commensurate with experience and education.  A full benefits package includes health, dental, life insurance, NH State Retirement System, and education reimbursement.

The Maxfield Library Trustees are also contributing a $1,000 signing bonus.

Requirements: 

A Bachelor’s Degree is required, with at least three years library or equivalent experience.  A Master of Library Science from an ALA accredited institution is preferred. Current MLS candidates are encouraged to apply.  Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides similar knowledge, ability, and skills may be considered.

Responsibilities: 

Except as specifically noted, the following functions are considered fundamental to this position:

Administers and oversees all aspects of library operations, including plans and procedures; reports and presentations; personnel selection, supervision and performance evaluations; budgeting and expenditures using Quickbooks; collection development and maintenance; materials processing; oversight of building and grounds maintenance; automation and the use of appropriate technology; grant writing; programming; marketing; and vendor and community relations.

Provides positive leadership for the staff. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with library patrons and responds positively to community requests and input.  Positive working relationship and regular communication with the Library Trustees.

Represents the Library and is actively involved with the community and makes a strong effort to involve the Maxfield Public Library in local Loudon events, functions, local grade school, and organizations.

Ensures that the Maxfield Public Library is up to date with current trends along with new and innovative ideas to ensure the best possible experience for the community.

Apply Now 

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, a resume with examples of accomplishments, and two (2) professional references. Recent MLS graduates and candidates are encouraged to apply.  Send resumes and references to: emosermaxlib@loudonnh.org   Position is open until filled and application review begins September 9, 2024. Complete job description is available at http://maxfieldlibrary.com

All applicants are subject to background check.

Maxfield Public Library is an Equal Opportunity employer.

– Posted 8/27/24