Full Time Librarian I, Reference Department, Mercer County Library System, Twin Rivers Branch
The Mercer County Library System is seeking to fill a full-time, 35-hour per week position that requires one evening per week, and Saturdays in rotation.
The successful candidate will be enthusiastic, flexible, highly tech-savvy, and forward thinking.
Excellent customer service, strong knowledge of reference sources (both print and online), and great teamwork skills are essential. The successful candidate will also have the ability to generate new ideas and the willingness to experiment and try new approaches to increase patron engagement and satisfaction.
The librarian will provide reference services and be the primary provider of one-on-one reference or technology assistance to the public. This librarian will create/facilitate adult programming for a diverse public; be responsible for marketing programs and library services; and do outreach to the community. There is also the responsibility for purchasing materials and weeding the adult nonfiction collection, and being the branch’s liaison to the central IT department. The ability to communicate well in person, on the phone, and in writing is required. The librarian may also be responsible for the branch when the branch manager or other librarians are not in the building.
Typical responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Assisting patrons with reference questions presented in person and by phone, including searching the library catalog to locate library materials or accessing databases/other reference materials and demonstrating their use to patrons;
- Teaching computer classes to adults, both in the branch or with community partners;
- Running computer updates;
- Assisting patrons in the operation of computers and computer software and providing one-on-one instruction when needed;
- Selecting library materials for adults, assessing collection areas, and weeding;
- Providing readers' advisory services;
- Creating and providing adult programming;
- Participating in outreach activities;
- Writing blog posts;
- Providing back-up assistance at the circulation desk when needed;
- Assisting with technology and database training for coworkers;
- Compiling statistics and assisting with branch reports; and
- Creating posters, flyers, and brochures.
Solid knowledge of online reference sources is needed. Very strong knowledge of Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and the ability to learn the library’s automated system are required. The ability to troubleshoot technology issues, flexible thinking, and a creative approach toward problem solving are strongly preferred. The ability to understand, apply, and explain library policies is necessary for this professional position, along with the ability to calmly handle any patron issues or complaints.
This position requires an MLS degree from an ALA-accredited institution and a NJ Professional Librarian Certificate. Students enrolled in an MLS program may be considered.
This position is affiliated with AFSCME local 3566 and there is a 90-day probationary period. Vacation, sick, and personal time are accrued, as well as a competitive benefits package. A complete job description can be found on the NJ Civil Service website. The present salary range for the title is $42,465 to $68,586, in ten steps.
The County of Mercer adheres to a strict residency requirement. Residents of Mercer County will be given first priority. Out of County residents will be expected to move into Mercer County within a year of employment. All applicants are subject to pre-employment tests: drug, physical and criminal background check. EOE/AA/ADA Employer. A full job descriptions can be found on the New Jersey Civil Service Commission website. There is a 90-day probationary period before permanency.
Applications will be accepted until a candidate is selected. Only those applicants selected to be interviewed will receive notification.
Resumes can be emailed to Ellen Brown, director [at] mcl.org, mailed to Mercer County Library System, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648, or dropped off at any library branch location. Please include a cover letter.