Branch Librarian

Job Description: Under the direction of Library Administration, the Branch Librarian manages, leads, plans and coordinates the services and activities of the Riverside Branch Library. This 35 hour per week position includes up to two (2) evenings per week, aligning with the Riverside Branch Library’s open hours, and alternating Saturdays.  

General Responsibilities: 

Responsibilities are intended to be representative and not necessarily inclusive.

• Actively and consistently engage with the people, schools, and other community groups within Riverside. Remain updated on changes, needs, and important issues relating to the Riverside community. Build relationships and seek out information to maintain a deep understanding of the Riverside community, and encourage collaboration with the Library when possible.
• Plan, direct, supervise, and make evaluations and recommendations regarding staff and services. 
• Coordinate, prioritize, and assign staff with tasks and projects; track and review work quality and progress.
• Maintain ongoing communication with Library Administration by routinely providing clear and concise updates and seeking regular feedback.
• Provide reference/information and readers’ advisory services for patrons of all ages. Perform circulation duties, when necessary. Assist patrons with the use of library technology.
• Provide educational and entertainment programs for all ages in collaboration with the Youth Services Coordinator, adult services programming staff, and Teen Services Librarian. 
  • This should include a minimum of two weekly programs for children, some of which will be planned and implemented by the Branch Librarian.
  • The Branch Librarian will also provide at least one monthly book club and another monthly adult program.
• Track and spend the Branch’s annual programming budget. Pursue grant opportunities to pilot or expand services/collections.
• Participate in all aspects of collection development including selection, maintenance, and weeding. Oversee displays, moving or shifting of collections, and recommend the adoption of new formats and collections.
• Provide space and support to the Friends of the Library for their fundraising initiatives, including the ongoing book sale.
• Continually evaluate the physical facilities, including cleanliness and maintenance of the building and grounds. Maintain close contact with custodial services staff and building supervisors, and report issues or problems to Library Administration.
• Respond to and resolve patron complaints and concerns in a timely and courteous manner referring to, and interpreting, Library policies when appropriate.
• Participate in professional library activities and ongoing professional development.
• Respects patron privacy and safeguards confidential information.
• Represent and celebrate the diversity of East Providence residents through library programs, displays, and collections. Continuously seek ways to make the library welcoming and inclusive to everyone. Innovate ways to remove barriers to use and increase accessibility. 

Desirable Abilities, Knowledge and Skills:

• Applies independent judgment when necessary.
• Proficient in the use of Koha, eZone, Libby App, printers, photocopiers, fax machines, scanners, projectors, Google workspace, and other technology and applications.
• Possesses a positive attitude and ability to effectively work with library staff and the public
• Excellent communication skills. 
• Outstanding customer service skills
• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Adept at understanding and adapting to new technology; skilled at guiding others in the use of technology
• Majority of work hours will be at the Riverside Branch Library but some shifts will be at other East Providence libraries and the candidate must be able to travel between locations.
• Works well with little supervision.
• Self motivated.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited school.
• Public library experience.
• Supervisory experience. At least one (1) year is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to perform physical tasks associated with library work such as:

• Standing for given hours of the work day.
• Lifting and carrying books.
• Shelving and retrieving books at or above shoulder height, and at floor level.