The Joseph T. Simpson Public Library is hiring TWO Reference Librarians.  The Reference Librarian provides research and technology assistance, reader’s advisory, and information services to the public. This role involves guiding patrons in the use of library resources, both print and digital, supporting their informational, educational, and recreational needs. The Reference Librarian also may conduct outreach or provide instructional sessions on information literacy and resource use.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

1. Current knowledge of reference, information services, Internet, and online technologies as well as automated circulation systems and circulation procedures.
2. Knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and Teams.
3. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
4. Ability to lead and direct staff and volunteers. Excellent interpersonal skills.
5. Ability to deal with the public and staff in a courteous, friendly, and informative manner.
6. Ability to provide effective and quality library service in accordance with the library's customer service philosophy.
7. Ability to understand and adhere to library policies and procedures.
8. Ability to organize materials, establish priorities and work with others in planning, implementing and evaluating library services.

Essential Duties and Functions:

1. Provides reference and reader's advisory services in person, by telephone, and by email.
2. Provides introductory information and oversees usage of Internet terminals.
3. Assists patrons in using computerized catalog.
4. Processes interlibrary loan requests.
5. Interprets and enforces library policies.
6. Assists at circulation desk as needed during each shift.
7. Answers phone as needed while at reference desk.
8. Monitors the behavior and conduct of library patrons and handles situations as they arise.
9. Promotes library services and activities to ensure use by the community.
10. Attends continuing education programs, monthly staff meetings, and periodic librarians meetings.
11. Serves as Person-In-Charge during evening and weekend shifts, and when the Executive Director and Assistant Director are not available.
12. Ability to type and use computer equipment.
13. Must be physically capable of handling books, magazines, media, and other library materials; of placing materials on carts; pushing carts; shelving and retrieving materials on both high and low shelves; emptying bookdrop.
14. Visual acuity to use research tools in print and in computerized formats.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

1. Physical requirements include ability to move around the facility, walk, sit, bend, climb, kneel, stoop, lift and carry.
2. Use hand and finger motion with enough manual dexterity to use computers and handle library items.
3. Duties are performed in surroundings where undesirable physical conditions and hazards are minor and controllable.

Employment Clearances:

Must have FBI criminal history, Pennsylvania Child Abuse and Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History clearances that qualify the individual for employment as outlined in the library system’s Employee Clearances policy.

To Apply: 

Submit your resume and cover letter to Arn Howald, Assistant Director, Joseph T. Simpson Public Library 16 N. Walnut St., Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 or email Arn at ahowald@cumberlandcountylibraries.org.