Head of Reference and Adult Services
October 2025
The Newport Public Library is seeking an innovative and energetic Head of Reference and Adult Services. This leadership position oversees reference services, adult programming, and the preservation of special collections, ensuring that our adult patrons have access to exceptional informational, educational, and recreational opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead, mentor, and support Reference and Adult Services staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Plan, coordinate, and deliver a wide range of inclusive adult programs: literary, educational, and recreational.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Reference desk and model exemplary customer service.
• Prepare monthly statistical and narrative reports; assist with budget planning.
• Provide expert reference and reader’s advisory services in-person, by phone, and online.
• Oversee the Reference book collection development, including the selection and weeding of materials.
• Stay current with trends in the field and emerging technologies.
• Develop digitization initiatives for local history and special collections to ensure long-term preservation and accessibility.
• Contribute to library-wide planning, policy development, and strategic initiatives.
• Represent the library at professional conferences, consortium meetings, and community events.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Proficient knowledge of email, Internet applications, Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to make basic updates to the Library’s WordPress website (additional technology skills are welcome, please include those in your letter of interest).
• Working knowledge of Koha ILS and Dewey Decimal classification system.
• Ability to handle difficult patron interactions with patience and tact.
• A positive attitude and a welcoming demeanor.
• Dependable, flexible, and adaptable team player.
• Ability and willingness to follow and enforce Library policies.
Required Qualifications
• Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program.
• 3–5 years of professional library experience.
• Strong knowledge of reference services and adult programming.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Supervisory experience and familiarity with digital preservation practices preferred.
Physical Requirements
• Ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to bend, squat, reach items on high and low shelves.
• Ability to push and maneuver loaded book trucks on slight ramps and through doorways.
Salary & Schedule
• Annual Salary: $62,000-$65,000 with full benefits package.
• Schedule: 35 hours per week, including alternating Friday/Saturdays and 1-2 evenings per week.
To Apply
The Newport Public Library is an equal opportunity employer. To apply, please email a letter of interest, a current resume, and contact information for three professional references to [email protected].
The application deadline is Friday, October 31, 2025.