Adult Services Librarian

TOWN

TOWN OF MARBLEHEAD

JOB DESCRIPTION

Title:                          Adult Services Librarian

Department:                       Library

Date:                         May 2026

SUMMARY

Under the general direction of the Library Director, the Adult Services Librarian oversees the Adult Services Department, planning and developing comprehensive library services, programs, and collections for adult patrons. This role is responsible for coordinating reference and readers advisory assistance and collaborates with the Circulation Supervisor in planning the work of library assistants within the department.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plans, organizes, and directs the operations of the Adult Services Department. Assigns special projects in programing and collection development to library assistants assigned to the Adult Services Department.
• Selects, evaluates, and manages the adult collection of books, digital resources, media, and other library materials. Analyzes collection metrics to ensure the acquisition of diverse, current, and high-interest materials that meet community needs.
• Provides high-quality reference, research, and reader’s advisory services to adult and young adult patrons. Proficient in navigating the Integrated Library System (ILS), online databases, digital catalogs, and emerging technologies.
• Performs routine circulation duties at the service desk as scheduled, supporting the overall daily operations of the public desk floor.
• Curates, coordinates, and conducts dynamic onsite, virtual, and community outreach programs, exhibits, and displays for adults to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and engagement with library resources.
• Manages all aspects of interlibrary loan services, including compliance with regional networks, tracking requests, and maintaining accurate records and statistical data for reporting purposes.
• Participates in the development of library-wide policies for adult services. Assists the Library Director in preparing the annual department materials and program budgets and responsibly maintains expenditures within the approved allocation.
• Maintains active knowledge of current trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in public librarianship by reading professional literature and participating in professional organizations, networks, and continuing education.
• Performs other related duties and specialized projects of a similar complexity as assigned by the Library Director.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Science in Library and Information Science (MSLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution.
• Three to five years of professional library experience in adult services, reference, or collection development, including demonstrated experience or aptitude for supervising support staff.
• Strong proficiency with Integrated Library Systems (ILS), research databases, and modern digital media; excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills; and a demonstrated ability to design engaging community programs.

EOE/AA

History of previous updates:
January 1995, March 2022, December 2023, May 2026