Nature of Work
This is a full-time management position in GRPL's . This position is responsible for managing a team of paraprofessional and clerical staff, direct public service to library patrons, maintaining relationships with community partners, and developing and presenting programming. This position will emphasize essential professional functions within the Branch.
Applicants should be able to demonstrate experience and interest in community programming, public speaking and performance, an organized work process, and contributing to and fostering a welcoming, inclusive team environment.
This position has the following schedule : Week AMonday : OffTuesday : 9 : 00 am - 6 : 00 pmWednesday : 9 : 00 am - 6 : 00 pmThursday : 11 : 00 am - 8 : 00 pmFriday : 9 : 00 am - 6 : 00 pm
Saturday : 9 : 00 am - 6 : 00 pmWeek B
Monday : 9 : 00 am - 6 : 00 pmTuesday : 9 : 00 am - 6 : 00 pmWednesday : 9 : 00 am - 6 : 00 pmThursday : 11 : 00 am - 8 : 00 pmFriday : 9 : 00 am - 6 : 00 pmSaturday : Off
Occasionally required- Sunday : 1 : 00 - 5 : 00 pm
Examples of Work
- Supervises branch operations in collaboration with other managers to foster a positive team environment; identifies patterns and communicates branch issues as needed; directs other staff and gives input to their work evaluations; trains and coaches personnel
- Engages with the public around library resources, services, and programming; provides patron advisory and guidance services; answers reference questions; performs database searches; assists patrons with searches; assists patrons in selection of materials
- Effectively manage challenging patron interactions through de-escalation; modeling and coaching staff with appropriate patron interactions
- Develops and presents creative and impactful public programs; contributes to planning and development of programming and initiatives; executes, presents, and leads programming for diverse audiences
- Actively initiates and builds community connections and partnerships; identifies opportunities for collaboration; advocates for the library and builds relationships
- Travels to other branches, meetings, and outreach events within the city and the county; conducts library tours and informational sessions
- Participates in Management Team; contributes to the development and execution of goals in support of the GRPL's mission and strategic plan; implements and provides feedback on policies and procedures
- Attends professional meetings and in-service programs; keeps current with developments in library science
- Contributes to selection, development, and evaluation of materials in specialized or assigned area; recommends items to be added or withdrawn from the library collections
- Performs other duties of a similar nature as assigned
Minimum Training and Experience
Required :
Master's degree in library science from an ALA accredited institution or any equivalent combination of training and experience as determined by GRPL managementStrongly Preferred :
Eligible for certification from Library of MichiganAbility to communicate effectively in Spanish2 years of management experience and / or 1 year of library management experienceOther Necessary Qualifications
Ability to :
Provide professional, friendly service to library staff and patrons; ability to make independent, reliable decisions related to customer service functions; ability to model engaging and consistent customer serviceDemonstrate strong de-escalation skills to effectively manage challenging patron interactionsCommunicate professionally with diverse groups both verbally and in writingRepresent the library in the community; initiate, build, and maintain productive relationships with a variety of partnersPlan, execute, and present programming which may include preschool storytimes, book talks, school visits, and adult programsSupervise, mentor, and train a small staff; ability to establish and maintain working relationships with other staff and the general public; ability to work collaborativelySet priorities and meet deadlines; adaptability and judgment to reprioritize as neededPerform standardized processes; ability to follow procedures in processing forms and other communicationLearn and keep up-to-date on GRPL policies, procedures, and documentation as they relate to role; ability to communicate and train around these functions and relay accurate information as neededUnderstand systems and maintain an organized and effective work processPrepare clear and concise reportsManage emotions in the workplace and maintain professional composure and judgmentWork with supervisor and process feedback regarding job performanceKnowledge of :
Modern library resources, services, principles, policies, procedures, and professional methodsThe Madison Square community and its characteristics; awareness of current trends in patron interests and needs; ability to keep current with services and opportunities available to the community as they relate to the scope of the positionOther Information
Please note the following :
A cover letter is required Please attach a cover letter in pdf format that describes your interest in the position, your interest in working at GRPL, and how these might tie in with personal or professional goalsAll communication regarding this position will be done via email; it is your responsibility to ensure that your email address is up-to-date on your account profileTo be eligible for this position, you must apply through thePlease visit the for a list of other open positions at Grand Rapids Public Library.
GRPL proudly promotes diversity and inclusion in employment, and strives to maintain a workplace culture where respect and positive recognition of differences are cultivated.
Grand Rapids Public Library provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination of any type without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, height, weight, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. GRPL will make reasonable accommodations for employees and job applicants with disabilities.
This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruiting, hiring, transfer, training, promotion, discipline, termination, leaves of absence, compensation, and benefits, as well as work-related events and activities.