Job Description

Posting number: 2026-00144

Department: Boston Public Library

Job classification: Programs & Community Outreach Librarian

Posting type: Open

Categories: Library, Education, Training & Library

Summary

Performs any and all phases of work in support of neighborhood programming and outreach services in library and non-library locations.

Reports to: Branch Librarian or ranking staff member.

Supervises: As assigned, professional and support staff.

Examples of duties

• Assists with day-to-day operations at the branch, including programming at the branch and at off-site locations.
• Initiates, develops, plans, and implements the Library’s programs of services to adults, young adults, and children as assigned through personal consultations, reference and readers’ advisory, outreach, and programs at the branch and at off-site locations.
• Works with administrators and staff at the branch to develop, deploy, and support outreach services for all ages and to identify service populations in the neighborhood.
• Collaborates with community groups, city agencies, non-profits, and others to bring high-quality programming and services out into the community. Offers library services and programs at non-library locations.
• Communicates effectively with internal and external partners. Works with appropriate staff to procure materials necessary for successful programs. Facilitates payment for performers and presenters and manages program funds as assigned.
• Provides professional staff support for outreach events at BPL locations and/or locations throughout the neighborhood.
• Works with administration and branch staff to evaluate outreach services.
• Provides instruction to patrons in the use of technology and library resources.
• Responsible for the development of assigned book collections and manages the appropriate materials budget.
• Recommends and/or plans changes in service or new services.
• Assists in training professional and nonprofessional staff.
• Works on public service desks as assigned.
• Assumes responsibility for administering program funds, as assigned.
• As assigned, represents the Library at local and national conferences.
• Makes oral and written reports and presentations on activities at the branch and other non-library locations.
• Actively participates in system-wide committees, training, and other professional activities.
• Represents the Library on city-wide and state-wide committees, as assigned.
• Performs other related and comparable duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education – Bachelor's degree from a recognized college or university and a master's degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited library school. Two (2) years of professional library experience, including substantial experience in public programming.
• Experience – Significant experience with youth and adult programming. Knowledge of broad-based library programming practices, including current trends in youth and adult services. Excellent knowledge of online communications and social networking tools.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Publisher, Power Point, and Excel. Familiarity with and interest in a broad range of social networking and online collaboration tools.
• Ability to execute library policy.
• Ability to plan programs in collaboration and with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrates initiative and independent decision-making skills.
• Communicates effectively and presents ideas clearly.
• Ability to think creatively and innovatively.
• Identifies, plans, and prioritizes job responsibilities and tasks; determines and implements project timelines.
• Demonstrates flexibility and the ability to adapt to change.
• Ability to collaborate with library staff, external partners, and resources.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.
• Requirements –Some evening and weekend hours consistent with branch hours. Weekly schedule varies based on scheduled programs and events. Ability to travel to BPL locations as well as to off-site locations.

CORI & SORI CHECKS REQUIRED

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA/P-2

Hours per week: 35