Adult Services Librarian (Fiction Specialist)

Adult Services Librarian (Fiction Specialist) Westfield Memorial Library is seeking a passionate, thoughtful, and creative professional to engage adult readers in our vibrant community. Under the supervision of the Head of Adult Services, the Adult Services Librarian (Fiction Specialist) coordinates collection development and maintenance (print and digital), readers advisory, and programming, as it relates to adult fiction materials. Additionally, the successful candidate will display an eagerness to provide generalized information and technology services to adults, and contribute to the general operation of the Adult Services department. The department currently consists of (4) full-time and (3) regular part-time librarians. This position also collaborates on community outreach, marketing, and partnership efforts, and pursuing grant opportunities. Westfield Memorial Library is a county leader in public library service, with a reputation for providing high quality materials, programming, and information services to Westfield’s 32,000+ residents. Recent accomplishments include the installation of (7) private study rooms on the library’s 2nd floor, construction of a new state-of-the-art public makerspace, and procurement of a fully electric (EV) bookmobile and outreach vehicle expected to finish production in early 2027. The library is currently working on a new strategic plan, which is expected to be completed later this year. Westfield is a community of readers, boasting 350,000+ materials borrowed, 112,000+ visitors, and 37,000+ event attendees in 2025. Westfield is frequently listed as one of the best places to live in New Jersey, including a 2026 report from Niche, which gave Westfield an A+. Noted for its beautiful downtown, lovely and diverse housing, excellent school system, and varied commuting options to New York City, Westfield offers its residents the best of friendly small-town living influenced by the sophistication of New York City. Westfield’s historic downtown is a mix of locally owned specialty stores and well-known national retailers. Downtown is the scene for popular year-round events, attracting visitors of all ages. SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Reports to the Head of Adult Services.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Answers a wide range of reference questions of varying degree of difficulty. Provides readers' advisory service to patrons seeking aid in the selection of reading materials utilizing both print and non-print sources. Instructs library patrons in the effective use of print and non-print reference sources as well as use of library equipment. Locates and requests materials from other libraries or institutions specifically requested by the public using established methods and procedures. Recommends the acquisition of adult fiction materials based on priority needs and budget limitations. Curates a monthly readers advisory email newsletter for adult fiction readers. Reviews and weeds library collections of books, and other assigned materials utilizing the library weeding guidelines. Develops and conducts library programs such as book discussions, author talks, and literary events both inside and outside of the library for the purpose of stimulating reading and adult literacy. Prepares reading lists and bibliographies for public distribution. Determines content and arrangement of library material for displays, exhibits, and library programs. Attends seminars and meetings of professional and technical groups or organizations for the purpose of keeping current with developments in the field of librarianship. May select materials and prepare them for delivery for the “Books-On-Wheels” home delivery program. Reads professional literature to keep abreast of current trends; Exchanges ideas, information, and opinions with Department Head to formulate policies, procedures, and programs for service improvements. May supervise Library Pages, Volunteers and Librarian Trainees May prepare weekly desk schedule May prepare drafts of publicity and news releases. May be in-charge of Library building and staff; may need to re-schedule and reassign staff as required. May compile statistical data and periodically composes narrative reports showing plans, programs, problems, or accomplishments of the work assigned Handles special projects as assigned by the Department Head, Associate Director, and/or Library Director. Perform other duties as required.

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL:

Utilize effective public relations techniques to promote an awareness of and support for meeting adult’s library and information needs through all media. Ensure that adults have full access to library materials, resources, and services as prescribed by the ALA’s Library Bill of Rights and its interpretations. Identify and evaluate outside sources of funding and contribute to the writing of effective grant applications. Demonstrate cultural awareness, critical thinking, problem solving, decision making, mediating, and cultural competency skills. Practice self-evaluation and pursue professional development and continuing education opportunities on an ongoing basis. Participate in local, state, and national professional organizations to strengthen skills, interact with fellow professionals, and contribute to the library profession.

REQUIREMENTS:

Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited library school. Currently enrolled students with at least 12 credits completed towards MLS may apply. New Jersey Public Librarian’s Certificate issued by the State of New Jersey, or the ability to obtain such. General experience working with a diverse public. Exceptional customer service and communication skills. Knowledge of contemporary adult fiction and literature. Experience providing adult literary and/or readers advisory programming is desirable. Basic understanding of current and emerging library technology, service and programming trends for adults, and contemporary public library issues. Substantial experience with Internet, electronic databases, social media, and basic computer or web applications (i.e. Canva, video streaming/editing, and other relevant multimedia software.) Bilingual skills are highly desirable. Candidates must be flexible, able to handle multiple competing priorities and tasks, adaptable to change, and able to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. Ability to bend, reach, sit and stand as needed. Ability to perform intermittent sitting, standing, and walking; occasional bending, reaching, and stooping; lifting and carrying items weighing up to 35 lbs.; pushing or pulling objects weighing up to 100 lbs; distinguishing sounds at various frequencies and volumes; distance vision sufficient to distinguish people or objects under a variety of light conditions; vision sufficient to view computer screens and spine labels under a variety of light conditions. Ability to work evenings and weekends.

SCHEDULE:

This is a full-time position with a 35-hour work week, typically Monday through Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm, and 1:00pm to 9:00pm on one consistently scheduled night per week. Daily shift is 8 hours with a 1-hour lunch break. Works at least every 4th Saturday on a rotating basis. Rotating Sunday hours and occasional holiday shifts are not required but may be available at a time and a half pay rate. Work schedule is subject to change according to the needs of the library, including evening hours and weekends.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Minimum starting salary range is $60,298 - $76,617, based on experience. Benefits include paid holidays, paid vacation, paid sick leave, excellent health benefits, and enrollment in the PERS pension system.

NOTICES:

Equal Opportunity Employer. Employees must comply with the \"New Jersey First Act\". This position is a union position, represented by Communication Workers of America Local 1031, AFL-CIO. “Good Faith” Salary, Range, or Rate of Pay #J-18808-Ljbffr Infolink The Eastern New Jersey Regional Library Cooperative Inc