Librarian

The Librarian is a key member of a Saddletowne’s leadership team, routinely stewarding the deployment of innovations in Service Delivery, leading system projects and initiatives, coordinating programming and outreach, and independently representing the Library in the community and with partner agencies. This position is responsible for the coordination of the Library’s Library Month at your Dayhome Story Truck program. As part of the leadership team, the Librarian is vital in maintaining the operations of the branch in the absence of the Manager. Excellent communication and a positive attitude are assets for this position. This position also supports staff members with change, acts as a champion for early literacy and play activities in the branch, and serves as a coach and support system. The successful candidate will be enthusiastic, flexible, and thrive in an ever-changing work environment.

Job Summary

Bringing Calgary Public Library’s strategic plan to life, the Librarian engages directly with users in support of literacy and lifelong learning both within the Library and out in the community.  Through the coordination, supervision, delivery, and assessment of Library programs and services that inspire wonder, play, and delight, the Librarian provides leadership in responsive and friendly customer service and in the creation of enriching library experiences for users of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

Reflecting the Library’s commitment to continuous improvement in the name of meeting the community’s ever evolving needs and expectations, the Librarian positively leads change, working collaboratively and constructively in a dynamic team environment in which learning happens every day.

The Librarian is a key member of a library’s leadership team, routinely stewarding the deployment of innovations in Service Delivery; leading system projects and initiatives (including training and professional learning); coordinating outreach, programming, collection management, and daily library activities; independently representing the Library in the community and with partner agencies; and directly supervising an assigned group of employees.

Responsibilities and Activities

The Librarian contributes to the success of the Library and its impact in the community through a wide range of responsibilities and activities.

1.    Shape a Positive User Experience
•    keeping up to date with current trends to identify program and service needs for the community
•    coordinating, delivering and assessing in-house library programs and activities
•    supervising library services to ensure successful service delivery; addressing and resolving patron concerns as they arise
•    developing and mentoring library team members to ensure library users are supported in using Library provided technology
•    overseeing collection maintenance ensuring in-library collections are appealing, accessible and organized
•    making recommendations regarding collection gaps by liaising with the Collections department

2.    Engage with Users
•    developing the outreach plan for the department including setting and communicating priorities in line with organizational objectives
•    coordinating visits, delivering outreach services, and assessing the outreach services provided
•    seeking new community partnerships, building relationships with community partners, and identifying how the Library will continue to meet community needs
•    representing the Library at community events and/or at partner agencies
•    supporting members and Library colleagues in resolving complex information queries
•    working alongside members to help develop their skills to use the Library’s electronic and physical resources
•    engaging with the Library’s diverse members about their reading interests, helping them select their next great read

3.    Facilitate Capacity Development
•    leading local and system training programs and presentations for members and staff
•    assuming leadership roles in system projects and committees to advance Library initiatives and to champion and implement positive changes
•    assisting with recruitment activities, performance management and onboarding
•    identifying staff training needs and developing team and individual training plans
•    supervising and coaching library staff
•    conducting performance reviews

4.    Create a Welcoming Environment
•    being knowledgeable about the Library and promoting the benefits of Library membership and use of the Library’s self-serve and virtual membership options
•    leading library orientations and tours
•    promoting attendance at Library programs
•    promoting the use of the Library’s physical and electronic resources

5.    Apply Operational Procedures
•    monitoring and evaluating library services, program delivery and outreach activities
•    participating in emergency response procedures and workplace inspections
•    addressing health and safety issues for staff and users
•    liaising with facility partners

Qualifications

•    Completion of:
o    a Master of Library Science degree from an ALA-accredited library school and three years’ recent and directly-related experience
o    Valid Driver’s license and insurability under the Library’s insurance program may be required based on operational needs

•    Pre-Employment Screening Requirements:
o    Vulnerable Sector Check
o    Successfully complete specified technology use tests

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

•    Exceptional customer service skills
•    Knowledge of leading practices and existing and emerging issues and trends in public librarianship
•    Strong supervisory skills, especially in such areas as coaching and mentoring others, conflict resolution and change management
•    Capacity to coordinate activities and prioritize work in a fast-paced team and public service environment
•    Ability to lead engaging and enriching programs and activities, both in the Library and out in the community
•    Excellent verbal and written communications skills, presentation skills, and public speaking skills including the ability to adjust communication style to interact effectively with users of different ages, backgrounds and abilities
•    Spoken fluency in a second language is considered an asset
•    Ability to multi-task and prioritize work
•    Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with a variety of groups
•    Commitment to continuous improvement and self-directed learning
•    Able to model best practices
•    Advanced Technology Skills (as defined by Human Resources)

Working Conditions:

•    Working in a public library setting and in offsite locations with members of the public of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities
•    Lifting, pushing and pulling library materials; lifting and carrying up to a maximum of 22 pounds
•    Ability to squat, kneel, bend, raise arms above shoulders
•    Repetitive hand movement for extended periods of time
•    Standing and walking for extended periods of time
•    Simultaneous and multiple priorities
•    Work at off-site locations and shift work required