Head of Public Services

If you have any questions about the position or our application process, reach out to us at recruiting-u@smith.edu.

Job Summary

The Head of Public Services plays a crucial role in managing the public services department within the Smith College Libraries. This position involves strategic planning, development and implementation of services that facilitate user access to the library's resources. This role is responsible for recruiting, hiring, scheduling, training, delegating tasks, mentoring, and developing both staff and student employees. This role is responsible for maintaining a welcoming, safe, and efficient environment for library users. The individual in this role is responsible for ensuring a seamless and positive experience for library patrons by overseeing circulation, course reserves, and other access-related services. The Head of Public Services collaborates with the Library Operations Manager, Campus Safety, and the Facilities Department to oversee libraries' facilities management, security and emergency management, and space management. The Head of Public Services collaborates with various library departments and staff to optimize the overall patron experience.

Take appropriate actions to support a diverse workforce and participate in the College's efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.

Essential Functions

Leadership and Management: (40%)

• Recruit, train, and supervise a team of 3-5 access services staff and 40-50 student employees, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide excellent service.
• Provide effective leadership to the access services team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures related to access services in alignment with the library's overall mission and goals.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback.
• Oversee training program for staff and student employees in Public Services, and responsible for developing and continuously updating training materials.

Circulation and Course Reserve Services: (20%)

• Oversee the circulation of library materials, including check-in, check-out, and renewal processes.
• Develop, implement and manage circulation policies, ensuring compliance with library regulations.
• Manage issues related to overdue items, fines, and other circulation-related matters.
• Oversee course reserve services, collaborating with faculty to ensure timely and accurate placement of materials on reserve.
• Implement and maintain systems for tracking and organizing reserve materials.
• Maintain currency with the legal framework that guides this area of library services, including copyright laws and fair use policies.
• Stay current with emerging technologies related to access services and library management.

Facilities, Safety and Security Management: (10%)

• Work closely with the Director of Public Services and the Library Operations Manager to manage the physical space, including accessibility, seating arrangements, study rooms, and other facilities to optimize user experience.
• Work closely with Campus Safety and Facilities staff to address maintenance, security, and safety concerns within the library.
• Plan and implement space utilization strategies to accommodate evolving user needs.

User Experience Enhancement, and Data Analysis and Reporting: (30%)

• Develop and implement initiatives to enhance the overall user experience in accessing library resources and using library services.
• Stay informed about emerging technologies and trends in library services to integrate innovative solutions for user convenience.
• Develop and conduct user education programs to promote awareness of access services and available resources.
• Collaborate with other library departments and external stakeholders to ensure seamless services and resource sharing.
• Engage with the community to understand their needs and integrate feedback into service improvements.
• Monitor and analyze access services data, generating reports for library administration.
• Utilize data analytics to assess the usage patterns of library services and facilities, and make data-driven recommendations for improvement.
• Prepare regular reports on key performance indicators and recommend adjustments for continuous improvement.

Other Functions

• Engage in continuous professional self-development and keep current with emerging librarianship.
• Participate in the work of the Libraries through service on library-wide and Five College committees.
• Participate in library wide teams, committees and working groups and professional activities.
• Represent Smith College Libraries at conferences and engage with national organizations in access services and public services.
• Perform related duties as required.
• Will include occasional nights and weekends.

All employees are expected to participate in the College's efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.

Minimum Qualifications (knowledge, skills, education, experience, certifications, licenses)

• Master's degree or equivalent and three to five years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and or experience
• One year of supervisory experience
• Strong leadership and managerial skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of current trends and best practices in library services.
• Familiarity with library management systems and emerging technologies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Library Science or a related field.
• Several years of progressive experience in library services, with a focus on access services and facilities operations.
• Academic library experience

Skills

• A strong commitment to public service
• Strong critical analysis skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written; strong interpersonal skills and public service attitude. Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Excellent customer service skills; ability to handle difficult situations with courtesy, tact, and patience; exercise good judgment consistent with library procedures; and work in a collegial, fast-paced environment
• Strong cultural competencies and ability to work productively and respectfully with people from varied backgrounds

Additional Information

This position is on-site and is not hybrid-eligible.

Review of applications will begin

Position Type:

Located in Northampton, MA, Smith College is one of the largest women's colleges in the country and is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research across the liberal arts. A faculty of outstanding scholars interact with students in small classes, as advisors, and through student-faculty research projects. The College is a member of the Five College Consortium with Amherst, Hampshire and Mt. Holyoke Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst.Students cross-enroll and faculty cross-teach across the Five Colleges.

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 151B, it is the policy of Smith College to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact our recruiting team at recruiting-u@smith.edu.

As set forth in our mission and values, Smith College is committed to promoting a culture of equity and inclusion among students, staff and faculty. The College will not discriminate in employment on the basis of age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by law. Smith College is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination.