Head of Reference

Head of Reference

Washington Memorial Library | Macon, GA

Full-time | 37.5 hours per week | $54,810 per year

Do you want to make a measurable and visible difference? Do you have a passion for developing and delivering public-facing library services? If you have a strong commitment to public service, excellent supervisory skills, and a track record of success working with lifelong learners, then Middle Georgia Regional Library invites you to apply for the position of Head of Reference.

The ideal candidate for Head of Reference is an experienced, responsible, creative, and enthusiastic team-builder who embraces and thrives in an active, fast-paced, and culturally diverse environment. This position will lead a staff of enthusiastic and committed professionals and paraprofessionals in fulfilling the Library’s mission “to connect all people to the information necessary to improve their lives through excellent services and materials.”

Our work culture:

Middle Georgia Regional Library fosters a collaborative culture where teamwork is necessary to make a difference. Our staff is the engine that drives our award-winning facilities, innovative programming, and extensive collections.

Diverse backgrounds, identities, and experiences bring unique strengths and perspectives to our team. We embrace each member’s unique identity to ensure our service reflects our diverse community.

Staff at MGRL enjoy a generous benefits package which includes 20 days of vacation leave, 10 days of sick leave, 11 paid holidays, membership in the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia, and medical insurance through the State Health Benefit Plan.

Our community:

Middle Georgia Regional Library is anchored in Macon, Georgia. Macon is a vibrant community that values education, lifelong-learning, and is highly invested in library service. The community has a rich history, incredible architecture, stunning southern charm, and a soulful musical heritage. The city is home to 5 colleges and universities, 6 museums, sports teams, Ocmulgee National Monument, and numerous parks and festivals. Macon has all of the benefits of a large city with a small town cost of living.

Position summary:

The Head of Reference will plan for long-range library growth, and administer and direct daily library operations. Of utmost importance is exceptional patron service and commitment to effective library services, programs, and technology. The Head of Reference is responsible for upholding all MGRL policies for staff and patrons. This position is responsible for budgeting, collections, and required statistical and financial reports.

Additional information:

The successful candidate will have experience and/or knowledge of a variety of library services and activities. The position requires a high degree of flexibility to produce services that are relevant and accessible to each segment of the population that we serve. They will build community relationships and contribute to community goals.

This position will enjoy significant support to attain these goals at Middle Georgia Regional Library with an enthusiastic and committed staff of paraprofessionals, professionals, and management.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

The Head of Reference directly supervises employees in the Reference Department. This position carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the MGRL’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Maintains communication with the local community to develop effective library services. Conducts reference interviews with patrons to address special research needs. Conducts public relations programs to increase public awareness and support of library programs and services. Oversees training for automated library systems. Participates in professional conferences and workshops to keep informed of changes in the library field. Describes or demonstrates procedures for navigating the public access catalog and electronic resources. Answers queries on complicated reference subjects, including formulating and processing online search requests. Participates in library outreach programs and conducts library tours. Provides instruction and actively participates in the development and design of classes on use of the library and its resources. Provides instruction and actively participates in the development and design of classes on computer skills. Compiles bibliographies and develops library user guides, both printed and electronic. Helps catalog and classify reference materials.

Required qualifications:

MLS/MLIS from an ALA-accredited university 2 – 4 years of related public library experience

Salary:

$54,810

Benefits:

Vacation (accrual starting at 20 days per year) Sick Leave (10 days per year) 11 paid holidays per year Macon-Bibb County life insurance Teachers Retirement System of Georgia defined benefit retirement plan (401A) – 6% employee contribution, 19.98% employer contribution State Health Benefit Plan (medical insurance)

About MGRL:

Middle Georgia Regional Library serves seven counties through 19 locations across central Georgia.

Our Vision:

Our Vision for Middle Georgia is a literate, engaged, and enlightened community.

Our Mission:

The mission of Middle Georgia Regional Library is to connect all people to the information necessary to improve their lives through excellent services and materials.

Our Values:

Convenient and equal access for all Good stewardship of taxpayer resources Highly skilled library personnel All are treated with kindness and respect

To apply:

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Applicants who are not selected will not receive notification.

Position is open until filled.

First review of applicants is June 26, 2024 at 12:00 PM.

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