Part-Time Children's Reference Librarian

The Town of Needham is seeking an enthusiastic individual to fill the part-time position of Children’s Reference Librarian at the Needham Free Public Library. This role provides support to patrons in reader’s advisory, information services, and children’s programming. As part of the library team, the part-time Children’s Reference Librarian promotes a welcoming environment for patrons of all ages.

It is an exciting time to join the Needham Free Public Library team! Our new Strategic Plan for FY2023-2027 positions the library to continue to meet the community’s needs for years to come. In addition, our recent Library Space Utilization Study reimagines the library’s interior space in four phases to enhance the work we do for our patrons and the community. We are currently amid phase one renovations of our Teen space that will support residents by providing a safe and productive space to gather. Along with diverse collections, plentiful programming, and great services, the Needham Free Public Library is on track to be the go-to place for new and current library workers.

Schedule

• Mondays & Wednesdays: 2:30–5:30 PM (consistent weekly)
• Sundays & Saturdays (4-week rotation, our week starts on Sunday):
  1. Week 1: Sunday 1:00–6:00 PM (1:00–5:00 PM in summer), Saturday off
  2. Week 2: Sunday off, Saturday 9:00–5:00 PM 
  3. Week 3: Sunday 1:00–6:00 PM (1:00–5:00 PM in summer), Saturday off
  4. Week 4: Sunday off, Saturday 1:00 PM–5:00 PM

These duties are a general summary and not all inclusive:

• Through robust and proactive reader’s advisory and information services, assist patrons, both children and adults, in selecting, locating, and using physical and digital library collections and library technology.
• Create a welcoming environment for all patrons by ensuring Library policies and procedures are followed.
• Assist in children’s programming and promotion that will support the diverse needs of the Needham community.
• Assist in providing outreach programs, services and library tours to local schools, preschools, and community organizations.
• Assist in processing library materials for circulation as needed.

The following requirements may be substituted by any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job:

• Master’s Degree in Library Science (MLS), or currently enrolled in an MLS program with coursework in children’s services and/or literature.
• One to three years of experience working with children and/or at a public library. 
• Ability to interact effectively and tactfully with the general public, especially children and their caretakers, and colleagues utilizing excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Knowledge of children’s services and literature, integrated library systems, library specific software and services, common policies, practices, and procedures of a public library.
• Knowledge of office software including word processing and spreadsheet applications, websites and online software, and basic troubleshooting in support of department operations. 
• Ability to perform detailed work accurately, and efficiently, and on time.
• Ability to adapt to new procedures and technologies as needed.
• Skilled in working both independently and as a member of the Children’s Department, as needed.

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and application by clicking “Apply.”

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on April 24, 2026.

The Town of Needham is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and encouraging workplace. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, age, gender, national origin, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, veteran status, or any other protected class. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.

For general employment inquiries, please contact us at personnel@needhamma.gov. 

The Town of Needham will endeavor to provide reasonable accommodation to a qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you believe you require such assistance to complete this form or to participate in an interview, please contact us at tswanson@needhamma.gov. 

Salary : $36 - $39