Reference Librarian and Adult Programmer, Swampscott Public Library (Swampscott)

Reference Librarian and Adult Programmer, Swampscott Public Library (Swampscott) Position Summary – Librarian performs professional reference services and adult programming services to the community of Swampscott under the supervision of the Library Director and the Head of Reference. Responsible for collection development of the non‑fiction area, programming and instruction, cataloging and outreach services. Cooperate with other libraries in NOBLE and beyond on programs and initiatives. Train, direct, assist and guide pages and volunteers in the performance of their duties. Attend professional conferences, read professional literature, participate in professional development workshops and seminars and attend consortium and statewide meetings. Attend staff meetings and workshops and keep abreast of library programs and activities. Perform related duties as required. In this role you may also be asked to cover shifts in either Circulation or Youth Services.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various type of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. Supervisory Duties Train, direct, assist and guide pages and volunteers in the performance of their duties Responsible for opening and closing the building in the absence of a Department Head or Administration Reference Services Assists patrons in finding information and using reference tools and databases Participates in book selection and ordering for the reference, nonfiction, and online collections Assists in weeding outdated materials from the reference, adult non‑fiction, and other collections as needed Assists patrons with library computers Teaches patrons how to use all the facilities of the library Answers reference questions by phone, mail, and email Represents the library at network meetings Adult Programming Services Plan, implement, promote, and evaluate programming for adults Coordinate with local organizations and businesses for events and partnerships Assist with the development of new services to reach underserved populations Apply for grant opportunities and locate alternative funding for programming and events Other Duties Prepare necessary reports and collect statistics for annual reporting and as a guide for future planning Organize book box delivery program Participate in NOBLE meetings and learning opportunities Attend library meetings and participate in professional activities Participate in the planning of intergenerational programs and relevant displays Assist with social media and digital promotion creation Perform related duties and responsibilities as required

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Under the general supervision of the Library Director and Assistant Director.

SUPERVISION RESPONSIBILITY

The employee may be required to supervise volunteers and pages. Employee may also act as a Department Head.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

Abilities: Ability to move and lift library materials up to 50 pounds, with assistance if necessary, from one location to another. Ability to handle minute detail and repetitive tasks. Accurate typing and word‑processing skills. Ability to handle situations with tact, courtesy, initiative, resourcefulness, good judgment and punctuality. Skills: Great customer service and interpersonal skills; highly motivated and able to work independently; understanding of the principles and practices of library systems and programs; understanding of library classification and selection techniques; knowledge of and interest in adult literature and reader interest levels; ability to plan, implement, and evaluate adult programs; ability to perform reader’s advisory for all ages of patrons; professional knowledge of library operations, policies and procedures; ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; capacity to establish positive public relations for the library and the Town; skilled in adapting to new technologies and methodologies; ability to fairly and tactfully explain library policies and satisfactorily resolve any problems resulting from those policies; ability to work effectively as a member of a team; ability to continually balance the competing needs of large numbers of library users; knowledge of the Evergreen system is a plus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Employee performs work in a municipal, public library setting subject to frequent interruptions. The facility can get unusually busy and relatively noisy on occasion.

OCCUPATIONAL RISK

Duty presents little potential for injury to the employee.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Lift and/or move library materials up to 50 pounds. Sustained periods of moving around three floors. Constantly read documents and computer screens for sorting and categorizing purposes. Rarely required to determine color differences.

QUALIFICATIONS

Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA‑accredited program required. 1–3 years of library experience preferred, but not required. Strong commitment to public service. Demonstrated reliability, punctuality, and professionalism.

FULL/PART TIME

Full Time

EDUCATION

MLS/Masters

SALARY

$23.67/hour

SALARY NOTES

35 hours per week; schedule may include evenings and rotating Saturdays (September–May).

CLOSING DATE

Open Until Filled

HOW TO APPLY

Send an email to View email address on click.appcast.io with your resume and cover letter. Please include the job title in the subject line of your email. Once received, we will confirm your application and provide information about the next steps.

POSTED

2026-05-12 #J-18808-Ljbffr Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners