About

Adult Services Librarian

Position Title: Adult Services Librarian

Department: Public Services

Reports To: Library Director

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt / Professional

Schedule: Includes regular day, evening, and weekend rotations

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. IFL is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Summary

The Adult Services Librarian plans, develops, and delivers comprehensive library services for adult patrons, with primary responsibility for reference and readers’ advisory, adult programming, community outreach, and collection management of the adult fiction collection. Working collaboratively with the Library Director, staff, and community partners, this position promotes library resources, fosters patron engagement, and aligns adult services with the evolving needs of the community.

Level of Authority and Decision-Making

This position operates with moderate supervision under the general direction of the Library Director. The Adult Services Librarian exercises independent judgment in conducting complex reference research, developing instructional and cultural programming, and curating collections. Sound decision-making is essential, as errors in judgment could impact library resources, community relations, facility security, personnel safety, and patron confidentiality. In the temporary absence of the Director, this position may be required to exercise operational authority in the best interest of the Library.

Essential Functions

• Reference and Patron Services: Provides high-quality, patron-centered reference, research assistance, and readers’ advisory in person, by phone, and through digital platforms. Assists patrons in navigating print collections, online databases, digital media, and commonly used technologies.

• Programming and Instruction: Conceives, coordinates, promotes, and delivers engaging educational, cultural, recreational, and technology-focused programs and workshops for adults. Evaluates program outcomes and adapts offerings to reflect community interests and demographics.

• Collection Development: Selects, evaluates, maintains, and weeds the adult fiction collection. Continuously monitors trends in publishing, adult literature, and digital media to ensure a diverse, relevant, and well-balanced collection.

• Community Outreach and Engagement: Builds and maintains collaborative relationships with local organizations, community groups, and service providers. Represents the Library at outreach events to increase awareness and utilization of library services.

• Marketing and Promotion: Promotes adult collections, databases, and programs through curated physical displays, reading lists, social media, web content, and promotional collateral.

• Operations and Safety: Explains and enforces Library rules and policies with tact, diplomacy, and consistency. Protects patron confidentiality, ensures facility security, and maintains a safe, welcoming environment.

• Circulation and Administrative Support: Assists at the public service desk as needed; maintains accurate service statistics; and prepares regular administrative reports.

• Professional Development: Maintains current knowledge of public library trends, adult services best practices, emerging technology, and publishing developments through ongoing professional training and engagement.

Additional Functions

• Performs original or copy cataloging as required for collection development.

• Identifies opportunities to streamline operational processes, including patron service procedures.

• Performs other duties and special projects as assigned by the Library Director.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge: Thorough understanding of public library principles, reference methodologies, adult literature, collection development practices, and program planning.

• Technical Proficiency: Advanced skill in navigating online databases, integrated library systems (ILS), digital media platforms, office productivity software, standard office hardware (copiers, printers, fax, postage meters), and basic collection repair tools.

• Communication: Exceptional verbal, written, and non-verbal communication skills. Ability to interact patiently, courteously, and effectively with patrons, staff, board members, and community stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.

• Organization & Problem-Solving: Strong organizational, time-management, and project-management skills. Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, handle multiple interruptions, and resolve conflicts calmly.

• Adaptability: Creativity, initiative, and flexibility to adapt to changing technology, evolving community needs, and varied work schedules.

Education, Experience, and Qualifications

• Education: Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution (or equivalent combination of formal education and professional library training).

• Experience: Prior public library experience in reference, readers’ advisory, programming, or collection development preferred.

• Instructional Skills: Demonstrated experience in delivering public presentations, technology instruction, or group facilitation is required.

Physical Demands and Working Environment

• Environment: Work is performed primarily in a public library indoor setting, with occasional travel for off-site community outreach.

• Physical Capability: Requires the ability to push fully loaded book carts (up to 300 lbs.); lift and maneuver materials weighing up to 30 lbs.; and bend, stoop, reach, and stand for extended periods.

• Visual & Motor Skills: Requires fine motor skills for prolonged computer use and detailed tasks, along with sustained visual concentration.

Please submit a resume and cover letter to director@indianafreelibrary.org