Librarian Assistant jobs in Pittsfield, MA

Job Description

We seek an energetic, service-oriented librarian for onsite reference and programming and outreach to our community. If you love exciting projects, think on your feet, and would enjoy having a tangible impact on your neighbors, we have a place for you. We will encourage your explorations, give you opportunities to stretch, and support your professional growth. The Berkshire Athenaeum is an urban library located in western Massachusetts, the heart of the Berkshires. While close to major East Coast cities (3 ½ hours travel time from New York City, less to Boston) our county is home to an enviable array of cultural offerings and gorgeous natural beauty.

The Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield's Public Library, is seeking to fill the position of Outreach Librarian (Library Supervisor / Specialist I). The Outreach Librarian will work under the general supervision of a Senior Supervisor to meet library and departmental goals. We have a well loved Book Bike, a Seed Lending Library, and a Library of Things to grow and tend, and we are excited to support someone who wants to develop new ideas.

Decision-making and problem solving skills, including interpretation of library policy and the exercise of independent judgment, are necessary. In-depth knowledge and ability in advanced library procedures, including research and the teaching of research skills are required. Comfort with technology and a commitment to keeping tech skills current are essential. Engaging with the community, creating partnerships, and project planning are core responsibilities. A desire and aptitude for listening and "talking library" with potential partners, business leaders, and patrons-to-be outside the Athenaeum walls is critical. Public desk staffing is routinely involved. Some clerical tasks are assigned.

This is a full-time position working thirty-five hours per week, with some rotating evening and Saturday assignments.

Deadline for PRIORITY consideration: June 18, 2023

Responsibilities

• Performs specific tasks assigned by the supervisor, including one-time and ongoing projects
• Initiates and/or manages programs to promote library services
• Makes selections for purchase in areas of subject specialty
• Coordinates library’s interlibrary loan services, performing associated clerical duties
• Applies problem solving abilities and routinely addresses complaints
• Performs complex catalog, database, and internet searches
• Provides public desk coverage, including assisting library patrons by answering reference questions of higher complexity, by locating and using department materials and equipment, and by maintaining public decorum
• Assists in the training and supervision of subordinate staff
• Identifies opportunities and accepts assignments for program planning and execution, which may include budgeting, space planning, promotion, report writing, and associated outreach
• Uses the library’s audio-visual, office, and computer equipment and resources and may routinely offer training to staff and/or public in its use
• May be cross-trained for grade-appropriate professional assignments in other library departments
• Performs other duties as assigned, including clerical and shelving tasks as required

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Library Science
• Specialized knowledge of library operations and services
• Skill in collecting, organizing, and analyzing numerical data
• General knowledge of office procedures
• Knowledge of current trends in field of expertise (e.g., online searching, business resources, music and arts resources, local history, genealogy, archives, etc.)
• Knowledge of reference services and sources
• Solid understanding of integrated library systems, computing, mobile technology, and basic hardware and software for initial troubleshooting
• Ability to discern patrons’ needs and to communicate clearly when answering questions and providing information
• Skill in personal time management and written communication
• Ability to organize and present information to a group
• Demonstrated ability to interact with general public in an urban library setting

Company Description

The City of Pittsfield is the cultural, commercial, legal, and medical center of the Berkshires – a region renowned for its wonderful people, outstanding standard of living, beautiful landscapes, and the finest in cultural and recreational attractions.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply.

We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Benefits

• Direct Deposit
• Free Permitted Parking
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Opportunities for Professional Development
• Health Insurance
• Vision, Dental, and Life Insurance Options
• Retirement Savings Plans
• Up to 13 paid Holidays
• Personal Days
• Vacation Time
• Earned Sick Leave
• Bereavement Leave
• Berkshire Athenaeum Employees Association Collective Bargaining unit
• Foreign Language Incentive Pay