Reference and Adult Programming Librarian, Auburn Public Library (Auburn)
Reference and Adult Programming Librarian
The Auburn Public Library is looking for a talented, detail-oriented, creative individual to manage its reference desk and adult-focused programming and events. The selected individual will be responsible for staffing the library’s reference desk for a significant portion of each day, assisting patrons with more involved, reference-related inquiries, as well as planning, scheduling, and coordinating all of the library’s adult-focused programs. The Auburn Public Library has a very engaged, enthusiastic userbase, and there is significant interest in expanding adult programming beyond what is achievable with the current level of staff. Working closely with Auburn’s Youth Services Librarian, the selected individual would be tasked with developing a full-slate of new programs that enrich, educate, and excite all members of the greater Auburn Community.
The selected individual would be involved with collection development as well, providing significant input into purchasing decisions concerning adult fiction and nonfiction.
This individual would also be part of the library’s management team and would assist the library’s director with developing goals, policies, and the budget for the Auburn Public Library.
This is a full-time (37.5 hours/week) position, approximately one Saturday per month and the occasional weeknight as scheduling requires.
Credentials
The ideal candidate should have an MLS degree from an ALA accredited Library Science program and a minimum of three years’ experience working in a library. Prior experience providing reference service and planning library programs for adults preferred.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate must be highly knowledgeable about professional library methods and best practices, particularly those pertaining to reference service and programming, and must have a demonstrated ability to engage creatively with others. They must be knowledgeable about library administration, including collection development, event planning, and budgeting. They must be able to maintain focus on completing tasks within an often loud, busy library with frequent interruptions and must be able to set priorities accordingly. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are a must, as is a commitment to the highest caliber of patron service.
Starting salary $65,000-$73,000 based on qualifications along with full benefits.
The Town of Auburn is an equal opportunity employer.
Qualifications
Summary
Working under the supervision of the Library Director, the Reference and Adult Programming Librarian functions as the primary provider of reference service at the Auburn Public Library. The Reference and Adult Programming Librarian is also the primary planner of all adult-focused programming at the Auburn Public Library and significantly involved in collection development for adult patrons. Related work as required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Responsible for daily operations at the reference desk, the duties of the Reference and Programming Librarian include but are not limited to:
· Assisting patrons with reference and research inquiries, ensuring patrons are able to obtain useful information in a timely fashion
· Providing reader’s advisory services for adult patrons
· Providing computer assistance with library hardware and software
· Developing and coordinating programming for adult patrons, including but not limited to lectures, concerts, crafting events, DIY workshops, health and wellness sessions (i.e. yoga, meditation, etc.), book clubs, seasonal adult reading programs, etc.
· Overseeing marketing for all adult events and services, including creating and distributing promotional materials, creating posts for social media, and doing outreach to the community
· Assisting with collection development for both adult fiction and adult nonfiction
· Periodically supervising Library Associates and Senior Library Associates
· Serving as part of the library management team, assisting the library director in developing goals, objectives, policies, budgets, and grant applications
· Attending workshops and professional meetings, as well as reading current literature on library issues relating to reference and adult services
· Performing related work as required
Expectations
· Knowledge of professional library methods and best practices, particularly those pertaining to reference service and program planning
· Ability to work with patrons of all ages and abilities
· Proficiency with library information systems
· Knowledge of library administration, including collection development, event planning, and budgeting
· Familiarity with library trends
· Ability to communicate clearly and efficiently both verbally and in writing
· Commitment to excellent patron service
· Ability to effectively and professionally represent the library to the community
· Ability to maintain effective, cordial working relationship with supervisors, peers, and subordinates
· Excellent planning and organization skills
· Ability to plan and prioritize workload in order to complete assignments in a busy environment with frequent interruptions
· Physical ability to stand, walk, sit, speak, hear, and use hands to operate equipment. Able to move and lift materials up to 25 pounds. Vision requirements include the ability to read routine documents and use a computer. Often required to push or pull book trucks weighing 150 pounds. May be required to stand for extended periods of time
Education and Experience
Master’s Degree in library science; at least three years of library experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Requires a criminal records check.
Full/Part Time
Full Time
Education
MLS/Masters
Salary Range
$65,000.00 - $73,000.00 / yearClosing Date
October 20, 2025
How to Apply
Position is open until filled, but initial review will begin on October 20, 2025. Please submit resumes and cover letters to Library Director Michael Zeller, mzeller@auburnma.gov.
Posted
2025-09-26 | Quick link to this job