Jobs

Posted 20 February 2009

Head of Reference and Information Services
New Westminster Public Library

Deadline: 12 June

Head of Reference and Information Services

New Westminster Public Library

The New Westminster Public Library is a busy public library serving a diverse clientele in an urban setting. We are searching for an energetic, enthusiastic and forward-thinking professional to provide leadership and vision to one of our busiest departments.

Reporting to the Chief Librarian, the Head of Reference and Information Services is a key member of the library’s exempt Management Team. Responsible for the library’s Reference Services, the successful candidate will also be responsible for ensuring that the library’s digital and online presence meets the needs of library users, and maximizes our services,  collections, and our ability to reach out to our community. This is a full-time, permanent position. 

Responsibilities of this Position Include:

• Management of the Reference service desk, including providing a wide variety of Reference assistance to library users
• Supervising clerical and professional staff, including hiring, scheduling, development and performance management
• Managing the library’s print and periodical collections, including selection in a variety of areas
• Coordinating the library’s Public Internet computers and services
• Managing the library’s digital collections, including online databases and e-books
• Ensuring that the library’s Reference Collection properly meets the needs of the New Westminster community, and that an optimal balance of print and non-print materials is maintained
• Participating with other members of the Library’s Management Team on library-wide activities, including Strategic Planning initiatives, hiring and development of staff and facilities planning.
• Working with other community agencies to promote the library’s specialized collections
• Working with other library departments to plan and carry out programming in areas relevant to the Department, including technology, genealogy, Reference resources
• Representing the library on InterLINK, Provincial or other committees relevant to the work of the Department

Qualifications Required:

• An MLS or MLIS degree from an ALA accredited library school
• At least 5 years experience in a public library
• At least 3 years of progressively responsible experience in library management
• Extensive experience working with print and electronic Reference sources
• Ability to plan and implement new or improved processes and procedures associated with Reference services and collections in accordance with industry standards and the needs of the library
• A wide range of experience with all types of technology used in public libraries
• Highly-developed interpersonal and  communication skills

Interested candidates should submit their resume and the names of three work-related references by 4:30pm on June 12, 2009.

Resumes may be submitted:

By email: resumes@nwpl.ca

Or by post to:

Julie Spurrell, Chief Librarian
New Westminster Public Library
716 – 6th Avenue
New Westminster BC V3M 2B3

We thank all applicants, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.