At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist patrons with reading, media, and digital literacy while providing excellent customer service.
- Company: Chelmsford Public Library, a vibrant community hub.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, engaging work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and make a real difference in your community.
- Qualifications: Strong reader advisory skills and experience in public library services.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with mentorship opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 20 - 34 ÂŁ per hour.
The Chelmsford Public Library is looking for an outgoing and multi‑talented professional to assist our engaged and supportive patrons with everything from the latest fiction titles to streaming media to digital literacy. The role requires a strong commitment to putting customer service first and sharing resources available through the library and online with the community. The position is part‑time, 19‑hour per week, with a schedule that may include regular evening and/or weekend hours. The main location is the Main Library, but hours may also be required at the MacKay Branch, the mobile Pop‑Up Library, and occasional off‑site locations.
Responsibilities
- Provide professional reader services to the community in‑person and online; work regular shifts at the public reader services desk answering patron questions.
- Build and maintain displays and book lists, provide book talks and programs, and create regular blog entries.
- Keep up to date with reading, viewing, and listening trends through professional development and popular media.
- Provide user and staff instruction for reader services, including e‑readers and reader‑related databases and services.
- Collaborate with staff to plan and conduct library programs and outreach activities primarily targeted at adults.
- Assist with collection development.
Requirements
- Strong reader’s advisory skills; comfortable with a variety of web applications and social media.
- Solid technology skills, including web tools, social media, and mobile platforms.
- Strong customer service and reference skills.
- Experience with NovaList and LibraryAware is a plus.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Library Science preferred; other college degree with relevant experience considered.
- At least one year’s experience in a public library, especially in reader and/or programming services.
- Demonstrated commitment to library and public service.
How to Apply
Email cover letter, resume and a sample review you have written to Vickie Turcotte, Assistant Director, Chelmsford Public Library: vturcotte@chelmsfordlibrary.org
This is a non‑benefitted position and is represented by the Chelmsford Federation of Teachers, Local 3569. The Town of Chelmsford is an EEO/AA Employer. Any person who needs assistance in fully participating in the application process should contact the Town of Chelmsford Personnel Department. We value diversity in backgrounds and experiences and are committed to an accepting and supportive work environment.
Part Time Reader Services and Programming Specialist, Chelmsford Public Library (Chelmsford) employer: Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners
Contact Detail:
Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Part Time Reader Services and Programming Specialist, Chelmsford Public Library (Chelmsford)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the library! Familiarise yourself with the Chelmsford Public Library's resources and services. This way, when you chat with staff or patrons, you can show off your knowledge and passion for what they offer.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend library events or community gatherings to meet people in the field. Building connections can lead to opportunities and give you insights into what the library is looking for in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your tech skills! Since the role requires solid technology skills, be ready to demonstrate your comfort with web applications and social media during interviews. Maybe even share how you've used these tools in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come directly from our site. It shows you're genuinely interested in being part of our team and makes it easier for us to keep track of your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Part Time Reader Services and Programming Specialist, Chelmsford Public Library (Chelmsford)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Personalised Cover Letter: When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor it specifically to the Chelmsford Public Library. Highlight your passion for reader services and how your skills align with their mission. We want to see your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Experience: In your resume, don’t just list your previous jobs. Instead, focus on specific experiences that relate to reader services and programming. We love seeing how you've engaged with patrons and contributed to library programs in the past.
Include a Sample Review: Since they ask for a sample review, choose something you’re passionate about! Make it engaging and reflective of your style. This is your chance to show off your reader’s advisory skills, so make it count!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to research the Chelmsford Public Library and its community. Understand their values, recent programs, and any initiatives they have in place. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Since this role emphasises customer service, prepare examples from your past experiences where you went above and beyond for patrons. Think about specific situations where you resolved issues or enhanced a patron's experience, as this will demonstrate your commitment to putting customer service first.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Trends
Stay updated on current reading, viewing, and listening trends. Be prepared to discuss your favourite recent titles or popular media and how they can be integrated into library programming. This shows that you’re not only knowledgeable but also passionate about engaging the community with relevant content.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to encounter practical scenarios during the interview, such as how you would assist a patron looking for a specific book or how to promote a new library program. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process and problem-solving skills effectively.