Information & Reference Services Librarian

Under general supervision of the Information and Reference Services Manager, assists in overseeing Information and Reference services, including providing high-quality reference, community referral, readers’ advisory, technological assistance, and other library services to patrons in person, by telephone and online at the Central Library. Additional responsibilities include supporting and creating community programming and training staff as necessary.

The position plays a key role in maintaining and evaluating the quality of virtual reference services, including monitoring service interactions for consistency, accuracy, and responsiveness. This librarian is also responsible for managing and responding to inquiries received in a timely, professional manner. 

Basic Information

• Reports to Information and Reference Services Manager.
• 24 hours per week. 
• $24.22 per hour with some benefits.
• Position open until filled. 

Schedule

Wednesday & Thursday - 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Friday & Saturday - 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm 

Note: The schedule is non negotiable.

Location

Central Library: 14 W 10th Street, KCMO, 64105. 

Job Duties (Essential Functions) 

1. Provides high quality library services including reference, information, reader's advisory, catalog assistance, customer account assistance, community referral and technological assistance in person, by telephone, and online.  
2. Manage and respond to patron inquiries received via the Ask-a-librarian email.
3. Monitor and ensure the quality and consistency of virtual reference services.
4. Regularly works shifts at both the Reference desk and our OneNorth Computer Lab. 
5. Instructs and facilitates use of library resources. Promotes new and existing library materials, resources, and services. 
6. Serves as a strong role model for providing excellent values-based customer services. Acts as a positive, proactive presence in the building, handling patron and building issues as needed. 
7. Assists in collection promotion and maintenance, creates displays. 
8. Represents the Information and Reference services team in a system wide capacity. Shares, promotes, and trains staff on the library’s reference physical and digital collection.  
9. Assists with Reference desk scheduling to ensure adequate coverage.  
10. Develops and maintains technology skills required to promote library collections and services, and troubleshoot issues with e-readers, computers, and other devices. 
11. Stays abreast of and helps evaluate library reference service trends while assessing the needs and interests of the community.  
12. Communicates effectively orally and in writing to education, explain, and inform patrons and staff. 
13. Works with Information and Reference Services Manager on provision of reference services and programming initiatives. 
14. Attends relevant professional development activities, library meetings, or committees and prepares monthly report of activities. 
15. Performs other related work and undertakes special projects as assigned. 

1. Demonstrated ability to meet and serve the public in person & over the telephone, working effectively with customers of all ages on a daily basis. 
2. Demonstrated ability to learn library operations, services and policies, including the ability to work with computers in a Windows environment. 
3. Ability to establish and maintain effective cooperative and positive working relationships with library staff, professionals in other organizations, community groups and community members. 
4. Ability to organize work effectively and handle multiple projects or demands on time, including patron requests. 
5. Demonstrated ability to instruct patrons and staff on the use of library resources in both a classroom setting and one-on-one. 
6. Demonstrated ability to lead, train and mentor staff. 
7. Demonstrated advanced computer skills. 
8. Excellent oral and written communication skills. 
9. Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of professional library work, particularly reference services. 
10. Demonstrated ability to follow oral and/or written instructions. 
11. Demonstrated ability to provide service in a values-based environment in a courteous, friendly, efficient manner. 
12. Ability to speak and understand English is required, additional consideration will be given to individuals that are proficient in any non-English languages spoken in Jackson County, MO including Spanish, Vietnamese, French, Arabic, and Swahili.

Required Education and Experience

• MLS/MLIS degree or an equivalent combination of education and related experience, preferably in the field of reference services. 

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions and job requirements of the position satisfactorily.  If requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, absent undue hardship.

How to Apply

Please apply for this position through our web application system. We only accept applications for specific currently open positions made through our online system. Access the online application from the job listing on the Job Opportunities page. The application system allows you to attach a document (such as a cover letter or a resume) to your application (10MB limit per document). When you submit your application, an acknowledgement will be sent to the email address you provided. You are welcome to apply for as many positions as you wish. However, to minimize problems, close and restart your browser between each application. 

All online Application for Employment forms must be completely filled out. For technical assistance, call 816.701.3712.

Kansas City Public Library is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.