Librarian I (40 hours)

This Adult Reference Librarian I position at our main location is a grade 8, bargaining unit position with a pay range of $20.00-$29.93 per hour. This position is 40-hours per week. All applicants must be available to work morning, afternoon, 2 or more evenings, Saturday, and Sunday shifts. Applicants should have an MLS/MLIS from an ALA accredited library school as well as being friendly, dependable, tech savvy, and customer service driven. Interested applicants are required to apply online through the Mentor Public Library website. Please attach a cover letter and resume. Closing date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 4:00pm.

Title: Librarian I

Grade: 8

Classification: Bargaining; non-exempt

Reports to: Department Manager or Branch Manager

Basic Function:

Performs a variety of moderate to highly complex technical and administrative tasks requiring considerable thought and analysis related to the delivery and management of public library services and operations. Librarians work with the public, a job that is customer service driven and requires a friendly, helpful, and tactful demeanor. Position may be full or part time and is determined by the needs of the library.

Distinguishing Features of the Class:

This classification performs professional librarian tasks that require the incumbent to possess a Master of Library Science degree. The incumbent is expected to apply the full range of modern library principles and practices in executing assignments. The distinguishing feature of this class is that duties include identifying community needs and developing a program to meet them through the application of professional librarian knowledge, skills, and abilities. As a Librarian gains on-the-job experience, tasks of increasing difficulty are assigned. A Librarian may substitute for a higher level Librarian in the latter’s absence. Employees assigned to this class are required to provide service in accordance with the Library’s mission and core values, and strategic plan.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities:

• Answers reference and reader’s advisory questions in person, by telephone, and online
• Assists patrons in the selection, organization, and interpretation of library materials
• Responds to customer needs and deals with them in a pleasant, friendly, and professional manner
• Responds to patron complaints and reports on problem resolution
• Deals promptly and effectively with difficult and demanding patrons
• May act as Librarian in Charge as needed
• Processes ILL requests from patrons, other libraries, and staff by searching bibliographic reference and online databases (WorldCat)
• Keeps abreast of current trends and new professional techniques
• Participates in the activities of professional and related organizations
• May serve on system-wide and professional committees
• Maintains neat and orderly work areas
• Keeps computers and photocopiers operational (machines filled with paper and toner; analyzes and corrects basic machine failures)
• May design and offer a variety of educational and training programs for patrons, patron groups, and employees to enable community members of all ages and employees the skills needed to locate, evaluate, and use information resources of all types
• Instructs customers in use of technology, one on one or in a group setting
• Performs database searches and assists customers with searches
• May assist with 3D printing processes and programming
• Makes modifications to the online catalog within established parameters
• Designs, coordinates, markets, plans, and presents innovative programs that meet the changing needs of teens and adults
• May give book talks to library and civic groups
• Facilitates book groups both onsite and offsite as assigned
• Creates displays and merchandises materials
• Compiles book lists, pathfinders, and subject bibliographies
• Performs collection development and maintenance of collection as assigned, based on knowledge of the community needs, usage levels, and relevance of materials and in accordance with the collection development policy
• Reads and evaluates reviews and recommends selection. Responds to suggestions from patrons in print and online
• Continually reviews collection for the purpose of removing old or infrequently used materials
• May perform routine Point of Service duties (i.e. issue library cards, place patron holds, renew items, may collect patron fines) using Libcal, Sirsi, and other systems
• Interprets and assures the implementation of official library policy
• Multitasks in a fast-paced environment as staff is required to be task-oriented and continue to be available for patron inquiries
• May perform outreach services to the homebound community
• May perform shelving and clerk responsibilities as needed or assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Good knowledge of professional library science skills
• Good knowledge of reader interest levels
• Ability to interpret community needs and develop work programs
• Ability to speak and write effectively
• Resourceful and innovative
• Friendly demeanor, diplomacy, discretion, and enthusiasm for working with the general public are essential qualities for this position
• Ability to keep confidential records and perform routine tasks
• Excellent professional judgment
• Requires strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office products and social media
• Demonstrated competency in productivity software as well as Internet searching skills
• Ability to manipulate loaded book carts weighing 300 pounds over carpeted floors
• Ability to lift library materials up to 30 pounds
• Must be able to multitask on a busy reference desk
• Must display tact and courtesy
• Desire and ability to work as a contributing member of a team environment
• Must possess good judgment
• Attention to detail
• Ability to adapt in a changing environment
• Must display thoroughness and dependability

Education, Training, and Experience:

This position requires a Master of Library Science degree issued by an ALA accredited library school. One year of related experience preferred. Librarians working with specific populations and/or age groups (i.e. teenagers, seniors, or children) are required to have service and programming experience related to that population. May require a valid driver’s license.

The intent of this summary is to characterize the typical duties and responsibilities that will be required of individual positions assigned to this classification and should not be construed as representing the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may be expected to perform their related duties which are specific to their area that may not be reflected in this class summary.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL LIBRARY EMPLOYEES

All Mentor Public Library Employees are expected to have and maintain good interpersonal and communication skills; maintain a tolerance and sensitivity to the needs of patrons and staff; maintain a positive and pleasant attitude, and be co-operative with co-workers. All employees shall adhere to the Library’s policies and procedures and support the Library’s mission within the Library and in the community. Employees shall have regular attendance, be flexible with regards to scheduling which includes daytime, evening and weekend hours; and be in adequate physical condition to fulfill the requirements of the job.

This job description explains the nature and level of assignments given to job incumbents. This is not an exhaustive list; therefore other related duties may be assigned.