Position Overview:

Under the direction of the Reader Services Supervisor or delegate and within the framework of Library policies and practices, to participate in reference service to the public and perform any or all phases of work in support of collection development. The work also includes the performance of various tasks requiring the successful application of the knowledge of professional literature, bibliographic sources, and principles of information delivery and services.

Reports to:

Reader Services Supervisor (P3) or delegate.

Supervises:

As assigned, professional and support staff.

Scope of Responsibility:

• Provides reference service to the public in a variety of methods (in person, telephone, online, via e-mail, etc.) and locations by responding to requests for information and answering such requests by using informational resources in all formats.                                      
• Engages with the reading community about books in all formats; assists readers in identifying and finding content of interest; participates in innovative readers’ advisory services in person and online; develops booklists and other recommendation tools online.
• Assists patrons in the use of the Library’s resources through personal consultation, instruction, programs, online content, and other means.
• Selects materials within assigned area for all Boston Public Library locations; analyzes requests, reviews, and other formal and informal resources; and selects materials based on information gathered.
• Participates in all facets of selection support activities, including the creation of electronic order lists for selection, the preparation of final orders for submission to vendors, and the communication of information regarding collection development to appropriate staff.
• Provides informal and classroom instruction to the public using established curriculum or assisting in the development of appropriate curriculum, on a variety of topics, including the use of library resources, basic computer and other information technology usage, reader’s advisory, and other personal and professional skill-building programs.
• Participates in developing and presenting programming activities to promote the use of the Library’s reader’s advisory services at the Central Library.
• Responsible for oral presentations and written reports on assigned activities. 
• Participates in and initiates special bibliographic projects. Assists in the compilation of annotated online lists and bibliographies involving book and non-book material.
• Participates in the creation and implementation of discovery tools and resource guides online.
• Continuously expands knowledge of the Library’s resources and other relevant resources in order to assist library patrons efficiently and effectively.
• Assists with collection analysis, gifts, weeding, and other collection maintenance activities; responds to inquiries about donations, materials purchasing, and basic Collection Development procedures.
• Assists with analysis of aspects of related services, operations, and collections and recommends improvements to enhance public service.
• Participates in the development and implementation of innovative online services that connect library users with collections, lowers hurdles to access for researchers, and facilitates the sharing of knowledge among users.
• Commits to keeping current in the best practices of the profession by taking advantage of training and development activities, reading professional literature, and participating in professional activities. 
• Maintains a working knowledge of reading devices, including ebook readers, tablets, and other gadgets used for reading or listening.
• Keeps current on trade publishing trends, other book publishing, and related news.
• Participates in system-wide committees, training, and other professional activities.
• Performs other related and comparable duties as assigned.

• Education – Bachelor's degree from a recognized college or university and a master's degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited library school. Relevant subject knowledge and/or specialized training required. In exceptional instances, specialized education, training, and/or experience may be substituted for part or all of the educational requirements.
• Experience – Some appropriate library experience or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training sufficient to indicate ability to do the work. Knowledge of broad-based collection development practices, including current trends in selection, ordering, patron-driven programs, use of library automated systems, and practices of the national and international book trade.
• Proficiency with MS Word, Publisher, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Ability to execute library policy.
• Ability to plan and supervise the work of others.
• Demonstrates initiative and independent decision-making skills.
• Communicates effectively and presents ideas clearly.
• Ability to think creatively and innovatively.
• Identifies, plans, and prioritizes job responsibilities and tasks; determines and implements project timelines.
• Demonstrates flexibility and the ability to adapt to change.
• Collaborates with internal and external partners.
• Ability to work well with staff and the public.
• Superior knowledge of bibliographical tools and resources.
• Some evening and weekend hours. Ability to travel to off-site locations as assigned.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.
• CORI – Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information check with the City of Boston

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA/P-1

Hours per week:  35