JOB OPENING: Part-time Reference Librarian
Plainsboro Public Library seeks an energetic and self- motivated Reference Librarian to work on Sundays. The ideal candidate will provide friendly, high quality customer service to patrons of all ages at the Reference Desk. A Reference Librarian conducts ready-reference using print and digital resources as well as performing in-depth research to answer complex questions. A Reference Librarian is attuned to technology trends and is comfortable using various forms of technology. A Reference Librarian provides notary public services to the public.
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
- Answering ready-reference requests at the Reference Desk or over the phone to patrons of all ages;
- Conducting reference interviews on complex research requests such as health, business, and other specialized requests and performing research;
- Providing instruction to patrons in the use of library catalog, website, eBooks and eMagazine collections; and reference resources;
- Maintaining knowledge of key library print and electronic resources within a department, including, but not limited to, common websites and search engines, databases and digital content collections in assist patrons;
- Submitting interlibrary loan requests through Jersey Cat system;
- Providing Notary Public services to residents;
- Answering and routing telephone calls;
- Providing customers with directional assistance and/or directing them to the appropriate service desk for help;
- Providing customers with assistance at the public computers and printers including troubleshooting problems;
- Receiving and responding to customer compliments, complaints and suggestions; Referring complaints and suggestions from the public to the Reference Supervisor when appropriate;
- Exercising proper procedure for evacuation of public and staff during an emergency or drill; and
- Performing related tasks as required.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
A Reference Librarian must have some knowledge of:
- the principles, practices and techniques of modern library operation;
- current trends in the delivery of reference services and library research techniques;
- library software, apps and common computer software such as MS Office; and
- subject-specialized databases and how to use digital resources such as eBooks, eMagazines and streaming content
A Reference Librarian must have the ability to:
- communicate ideas clearly with patrons and co-workers both orally and in writing;
- read and comprehend material quickly;
- work independently and show initiative;
- learn how to use new information resources and software;
- exercise initiative and independent judgment; and
- establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers and library staff.
Education and experience: A Reference Librarian must have a Master's degree in library science from an ALA accredited library school and some public library experience. Demonstrated knowledge of technology is expected. The Reference Librarian must possess a certificate as Librarian issued by the State of New Jersey. A Reference Librarian must meet the qualifications to be appointed as a Notary Public; must be 18 years or older and never been convicted of a crime under the laws of any state or the United States, for an offense involving dishonesty, or a crime of the first or second degree. MLIS students will be considered at a lower salary and are eligible for our ELF program.
Schedule: 7 hours per week; Sundays 9:30am -5pm.
Salary: $29.03 per hour for MLS Librarian
Application: For consideration, please send a cover letter and resume to: jobs [at] plainsborolibrary.org Include “Part-time Reference Librarian” in the email subject line. Please no phone calls. Only candidates selected for interviews will be notified. Employment offers are conditional upon a successful background and reference check and include a six month probationary period. Plainsboro Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicant must comply with the “NJ First Act.”