Job Description
This is a management level position with primary responsibility for organizing, directing and supervising the work of the Acquisitions & Cataloging department.
The Head of Acquisitions & Cataloging has primary responsibility for the effective and efficient operation of the Library's technical service operations. Duties include the coordination and supervision of the processes of ordering, cataloging, and processing of all of the materials purchased for the Providence Public Library. This includes the direct and indirect supervision of all professional and clerical employees involved in this process and the development of policies and procedures for Acquisitions & Cataloging. This individual must anticipate problems in operations, and has primary responsibility for developing solutions.
The work of this Department determines the physical organization of the Library's collection and directly affects the usefulness of the catalog as a means of accessing the information contained in those collections. This gives Acquisitions & Cataloging a central role in the organization and requires that the Head of Acquisitions & Cataloging work closely with library administrators, other department heads, public service staff, and the staff of other libraries to solve problems which arise and to facilitate their ability to provide service to the public.
The Head of Acquisitions & Cataloging reports to the Head Curator of Collections but must work independently. The nature of the job calls for individual initiative, both in solving problems and in improving the services provided by the Department. Work is reviewed and evaluated at regular meetings with the Head Curator of Collections.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
Participates in the Collections Committee meetings and keeps staff up to date on new policies, procedures and other library developments.
Interviews and evaluates applicants for open positions in the department.
Schedules staff and approves leave.
Implements disciplinary action when necessary.
Monitors and evaluates performance of departmental employees.
Trains Acquisitions & Cataloging staff in all job-related functions.
Assists Head Curator of Collections with the evaluation of new cataloging/technical service products or services.
Provides professional assistance to other departments concerning issues related to cataloging and/or technical services.
Reviews effectiveness of cataloging/technical service procedures, implementing minor changes, and recommending major changes to the Head Curator of Collections.
Devises and implements departmental policies, procedures, and work systems, consistent with organizational goals.
Organizes and monitors the work flow, and the flow of materials through the department.
Develops departmental goals and objectives.
Other duties as assigned.
Provides metadata support for digital projects in collaboration Technology & Information Services and Collection staff.
Catalogs library materials and performs other tasks of a professional cataloger.
Maintains records and prepares appropriate reports.
Develops and maintains vendor relationships.
Uses electronic data interchange (EDI) for ordering materials.
Monitors acquisitions budget using an automated acquisitions system.
Assists Head Curator of Collections in preparing budgets and grant requests.
Additional Skills:
Ability to motivate and lead both professional and clerical staff persons.
Ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing.
Ability to analyze complex problems and develop alternative solutions.
Considerable knowledge of principles and practices of management.
Extensive knowledge of principles and practices of Library Science.
Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of cataloging and library technical services. This includes specific and practical knowledge of and experience with MARC format; OCLC; AACR2; RDA; LC Subject Headings; and Dewey and LC classification system.
Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
Interact professionally with other employees, patrons, and suppliers.
Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
Comfortable working with various technology (i.e. Microsoft programs, Google Docs/Drive).
Strong attention to details and strong organizational skills.
Excellent verbal and written skills.
Education & Experience Required:
Demonstrable competence/training/experience with application of computer technology to library technical services
Considerable professional library experience (5 years or more) which includes supervisory management experience. Minimum of three years in Library acquisitions/cataloging/technical services required.
MLS/MLIS Degree from an accredited Library School REQUIRED with documented coursework in cataloging, technical services and the organization of library materials.
Additional Requirements:
Physical requirements – ability to occasionally lift/move up to 25 lbs.
Position Location – Providence, RI
Driving/Travel requirements – 0-10%
This position is:
Exempt and is not part of the Union.
Hours: 35 hours per week Salary Range: $58,000 - $63,000
Please submit cover letter and resume by July 5, 2022.
Submit Cover Letter and Resume to:
E-mail: HR@provlib.org
OR
The Providence Public Library
Attn: HR
150 Empire Street
Providence, RI 02903
Fax: 401-455-8002
Equal Opportunity
In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at the Providence Public Library are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. PPL is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or medical or common conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, national origin, ancestry, age (40 and above), disability, veteran status, military service, application for military service, genetic information, receipt of free medical care, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. PPL will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.
The Community
Providence Public Library (PPL) is a 144-year-old nonprofit corporation providing free public library services through its rich and historic physical and digital collections, extensive information resources, thought-provoking exhibitions, impactful educational programs, and expert staff.
PPL is continually transforming and focused on providing equally transformative experiences for all Rhode Islanders. The Library is actively expanding our reach through critical statewide collaborations and serving as an open and supportive teaching and learning place where communities can connect, experience, create and achieve, whether in our physical or virtual realms.
To achieve our mission, the Library is strategically focused on serving Rhode Island families and early care providers, teens, downcity residents, learners seeking workforce development, and those pursuing creative and scholarly endeavors.
Website
Www.provlib.org
Human Resources / Job Listings
https://www.provlib.org/about-us/job-opportunities/
HR Info
Email cover letter and resume to: HR@provlib.org
The Providence Public Library
ATTN: HR
150 Empire Street
Providence, RI 02903