Description
The Reference Services Coordinator oversees reference operations and supervises reference staff at the Downtown Library. This position supports the delivery of high-quality reference services at all locations by leading trainings for reference staff and planning the implementation of new reference services. The Reference Services Coordinator also provides advanced research assistance to patrons, including helping researchers use special collections and archives. Additional responsibilities include collection development of reference collections, both print and digital, as well as regularly serving as building supervisor for the Downtown Library.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Successful candidates will be able to serve the public using the knowledge, skills, and abilities that follow:
Knowledge
- Understands principles of reference and user services across multiple delivery models.
- Possesses working knowledge of reference collection development, evaluation, and weeding practices.
- Knows assessment methods, statistics, and standards for evaluating resources and services.
- Understands information literacy, instructional design, and best practices for special collections.
Skills
- Conducts reference and readers’ advisory interviews in a professional manner.
- Analyzes community demographics and user feedback to shape services and programs.
- Plans, delivers, and assesses instruction and outreach with internal and external partners.
- Works with the Library Program Specialist, Programming Coordinator, and Digital Outreach Coordinator to create and deliver new programs for adult patrons.
- Proficiently uses current and emerging technologies, including digital resources and reference tools.
Abilities
- Able to design, implement, and revise reference service models based on evidence.
- Able to advocate for reference services and collections to stakeholders and administrators.
- Able to develop staff competencies through mentoring, training, and sharing best practices.
- Able to engage in continual professional learning and adapt services to changing user needs.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
A master’s degree in library science, information science, museum studies, history, or another relevant field from an accredited institution and at least two years professional experience in a recognized library or archive are required.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position is on-site and full-time. It requires some evening and weekend work. Work hours are 9 AM to 6 PM on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. On Wednesday, work hours are from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Friday and Saturday alternate weekly on the schedule, i.e. Friday is scheduled one week with Saturday off, and the next week Friday is off and with Saturday scheduled. Work hours on Friday/Saturday are from 9 AM to 6 PM. All library employees work one Sunday every four weeks from 1:30 PM to 6 PM. Work hours are shortened for one day during the week a Sunday is scheduled in order to keep hours worked at 40 hours per week.
Candidates must be eager to serve the public courteously and be able to work tactfully and harmoniously with others. Full performance of duties requires physical stamina. Candidates must be able to walk briskly, stand for considerable periods of time, lift and carry stacks of books weighing up to 20 pounds, and push loaded book trucks for short distances – all of which requires agility in stooping, lifting, and bending.
COMPENSATION RANGE
Minimum: $42,182 per year ($20.28 per hour)
Maximum: DOQ
APPLICATION PROCESS
To help ensure applications are promptly received with the required information, please apply through the City of Amarillo's career portal. Note that the portal allows applicants to upload résumés and cover letters in PDF format. Candidates are encouraged to utilize this feature to ensure their interests and experience are presented in the format of their choosing. Additionally, the career portal will send verification emails when candidates apply. Candidates must click on the link and verify their email address to receive important communications like interview requests.
The City of Amarillo is an Equal Opportunity employer and encourages applications from eligible and qualified persons regardless of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, familial status, disability, genetic information or protected veteran status, in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local law.
The City of Amarillo provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities on a case-by-case basis. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please contact the Human Resources Office at (806) 378-4294.
