Position Overview

Conduct public relations and communications functions that help in raising awareness and enhancing the reputation of the Boston Public Library system and its services to the people of Boston and the Commonwealth. Assist the Chief of Communications & Strategy with ongoing internal and external communications efforts.

Reports to

Chief of Communications & Strategy or delegate

Supervises

As assigned, professional and support staff

Scope of Responsibility

1. Communicate, orally and in writing, accurate information on all aspects of the Boston Public Library’s services, programs, accomplishments, history, strategies, and more.
2. Research, write, edit, and/or proofread communications materials, including, but not limited to, calendar listings, flyers, pitches, fact sheets, op-eds, press kits, Q&As, FAQs, media alerts, briefing materials, speaking points, and presentations.
3. Proactively pitch media/bloggers and respond to media/blogger inquiries in a timely, professional manner. Produce high quality research, human interest, feature, and other story ideas.
4. Write, disseminate, and follow up on press releases, events, and programs. Work closely with local media to ensure that the library is covered in the community and surrounding areas. Maintain records of media contacts, placements, and deadlines.
5. Arrange for media interviews; escort media members during onsite visits. Work closely with library colleagues and management during press calls and events. Attend library-related promotional events as appropriate.
6. Maintain editorial calendar, press release schedule, media lists; update and expand on a timely basis. Deliver concise and informative reporting on press activities, coverage secured, and current opportunities. Oversee press clip collection and press log maintenance.
7. Draft, edit, and produce weekly staff newsletter. Generate story ideas, write news stories, and solicit articles from staff.
8. Proofread all correspondence and documents produced by the library. Assist affiliates of the library with development of materials.
9. Act as the style and editorial guidelines monitor to ensure proper style/format is being used across the institution. Monitor communications materials for uniformity in message, format, tone, and content.
10. Update library website and intranet content; work with staff to keep web copy accurate and fresh. Ensure key library facts and figures are consistent, accurate, and appropriately highlighted in print and online copy.
11. Assist with the creation of strategic public relations campaigns.
12. Serve as one of the library’s spokespeople.
13. Maintain contacts in and up-to-date knowledge of activities and programs in all Boston Public Library locations. Regularly visit Boston Public Library locations across the system.
14. Arrange meetings, prepare meeting materials, and take minutes as appropriate.
15. Performs other related and comparable duties as assigned.

Competencies

• Ability to execute library policy.
• Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines.
• Ability to communicate effectively and present ideas clearly.
• Ability to collaborate with library staff, external partners, and resources.
• Ability to demonstrate initiative and appropriate independent decision making skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and social media. 
• Discretion in handling confidential information.
• Ability to identify, plan, and prioritize job responsibilities and tasks and determine and implement project timelines.
• Ability to plan and supervise the work of others.
• Ability to successfully manage several demanding projects simultaneously and identify priorities in fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

1. Education – Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or Business from a recognized college or university. A master’s degree in related field preferred. In exceptional instances specialized education, training, and/or experience may be substituted for part or all of the educational requirements.

2. Experience – Four (4) years of experience in media relations, public relations writing, media planning, and execution.

3. Requirements –

• Technology skills appropriate to perform the duties of the job.
• Technologically advanced; expert user of Microsoft Office and image editing software.
• Experience with digital communications channels.
• Experience securing and positioning press opportunities.
• Exceptional interpersonal, project management, and reporting, writing and editing skills and a proven record of working collaboratively with a wide range of constituents.
• Evidence of experience developing and implementing communications strategies for a large, complex organization.
• Ability to travel to BPL locations as well as to off-site locations.
• Superior proofreading skills.

Requirements:

1. Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.
2. Residency - Must be a resident of the City of Boston upon the first day of hire.
3. CORI - Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information check with the City of Boston.

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA / P / 3

Hours per week:35