Job Details

Reference Librarian, Stoneham Public Library (Stoneham)

The Board of Library Trustees and the Town of Stoneham are seeking qualified candidates for an upcoming opening for the Reference Librarian position at the Stoneham Public Library.

Statement of Duties: The Reference Librarian performs professional, administrative, technical, and direct service work, including, but not limited to, reference and information services, adult programming, community outreach, and collection development. Services are specifically geared towards adults aged 18+. The Librarian will independently perform varied, complex tasks, requiring broad and specific knowledge, reading and learning, and customer service skills. In accordance with the State Public Records law, the employee has regular access to confidential information such as patron records. The Librarian assumes the responsibility for staff and the building, on a temporary basis, when the Library Director and Assistant Library Director are not available. The employee is required to perform all similar or related duties.

For the full job description and application materials, please see the Town of Stoneham's Job Opportunities page. 

A Master’s Degree in Library Science from a program accredited with American Library Association or master craftsman level of trade knowledge; a minimum of three to five years related work experience. Or equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides required knowledge, skills and ability to perform essential job functions. Certificate of Librarianship from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners is required. Proficiency with computers and other technology is a must. 

Qualifications

Recommended Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Experience: Master's degree in Library Science from a program accredited with the American Library Association or an equivalent master craftsman level of trade knowledge; a minimum of three to five (3-5) years related work experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. 

Special Requirements: CORI certification is required as a condition of employment and successfully completes a pre-employment physical examination. Certificate of Librarianship from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners is required.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skill:

Knowledge: Working knowledge of the principles and practices of professional library work specifically related to adult services including reference tools, current events, topics, movies, CDs and authors popular with the public, cataloging, automated library systems and information technology including social media, web sites and the Internet; knowledge of the organization and management of library including operations and emerging technologies in support of department operations and services such as the inter library loan system and the Internet.  Knowledge of and interest in adult books, new or controversial literature and media; basic familiarity with many fields of knowledge. Knowledge of the organization and management of library operations. Knowledge and skill in Readers Advisory services and familiarity with reference sources.

Abilities: Ability to work independently with a high degree of accuracy; ability to use a variety of computer software programs as well as print and electronic resources such as on-line databases. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to deal effectively with disgruntled members of the library.  Ability to establish priorities and to complete objectives in a timely manner consistent with department standard operating procedures and policies. Ability to discuss new and/or controversial reading materials with adult patrons of all ages and learning styles. Ability to maintain the confidentiality of patron records. Ability to effectively use all library equipment and technology.

Skill: Proficient interpersonal, customer service, research, and community outreach skills to interact with adult patrons of all ages; proficient oral and written communication skills; excellent organizational, analytical, listening, intuition, and technology skills.

Physical and Mental Requirements The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the position’s essential functions.

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee:

● Is frequently required to sit during work tasks, with extended periods of bending, stooping, walking, kneeling, standing, reaching, and twisting

● May be required to lift or carry up to 50 pounds of library materials such as books, other print materials, equipment, and supplies

● May be required to push and pull loaded book carts, materials, equipment, and supplies up to 150 pounds

Motor Skills: Duties may involve assignments requiring the application of hand and eye coordination with finger dexterity and motor coordination. Examples include but are not limited to operating a personal computer or climbing a step ladder in order to reach or retrieve books or materials.

Visual/Auditory Skills: The employee is required to constantly read documents, personal computer screens and written reports for general understanding and routinely for analytical purposes.  The employee must have the auditory ability to listen and comprehend. The employee is not regularly required to determine color differences.

Full/Part Time

Full Time

Education

MLS/Masters

Salary Range

$34.31 - $40.76  / hour

Salary Notes

The Union is in the processing of signing a new contract, so the actually salary range will be slighter higher than above.

Closing Date

How to Apply

Interested qualified candidates should apply with the following application materials:

● Cover letter, resume and three professional references.
●  Employment applications are required, a copy is available on the town’s website:
         ● Fillable Job Application for Town of Stoneham

Application materials may be sent by email to Donna Gaffey in HR: dgaffey@stoneham-ma.gov
Open until filled, first review of applications will be July 21, 2025.

Candidate will be required as a condition of employment to successfully complete pre-employment physical with drug screen, CORI and background screening.

Stoneham is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage diversity in our workforce and are committed to
creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Posted

2025-07-11 |  Quick link to this job