Salary: $80,788.50 - $90,519.00 Annually
Location : Needham, MA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number:Department: Library
Opening Date: 10/16/2026
Closing Date: 11/6/2026 11:59 AM Eastern
DescriptionThe Town of Needham is seeking a passionate, dedicated individual to fill the full-time position of Library Reference Supervisor at the Needham Free Public Library. Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Public Library, the Library Reference Supervisor will plan, direct, and evaluate the library reference/information services department at the Needham Free Public Library. The ideal candidate will have exemplary communication skills, the ability to lead others on the Reference team, an interest in supporting and building programming for patrons of all ages, and a passion for serving the Needham community.
CON #27025 Duties and Responsibilities - Direct and schedule the activities of the library's reference/information services including scheduling of staff, operating procedures, and planning and assigning special projects to reference staff.
- Lead the creation of a robust and relevant offering of library programming including but not limited to library technology, art, history, culture, etc.
- Proactively ensure that library reference collections, services, and programming are welcoming, inclusive, and affirming for all patrons.
- Provide input to the Director on library plans, services, budgets, utilization of personnel, etc. and assist in developing and implementing departmental and library policies and procedures.
- Advise and assist patrons in selecting, locating, and utilizing library resource materials through knowledge of print materials, the catalog, electronic databases, and other related resources.
- Lead department in keeping abreast of current and emerging trends, promoting professional development opportunities for staff to pursue.
- Lead team in designing and creating informational materials for internal and external audiences about the use of library resources; communicating these resources via print, social media, and other media platforms.
- Engage with local media to promote the services of the Reference Department as needed.
- Coordinate with Technical Services Supervisor and allocated budget to oversee selection and purchasing for the Young Adult and Adult Departments. Evaluate reference collection continuously for currency and accuracy of information.
- Participate in the evaluation and hiring of reference staff.
Requirements - Master's Degree in Library Science (MLS), or currently enrolled in an MLS program with successful completion of Reference coursework with library experience considered.
- Four (4) to six (6) years in professional reference services, preferably with supervisory experience.
- Demonstrated knowledge of library policies, procedures, systems, programming, and current trends in the field.
- Ability to manage scheduling for department, delegate special projects, and adapt to new technologies
- Ability to plan strategic programming for the department, creating and maintaining an inclusive and affirming environment for all.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders including patrons of all ages, Library staff, other Town employees, and on occasion, media.
Supplemental InformationTo apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and application by clicking "Apply."
Applications will be accepted until
11:59 AM on Friday, November 6, 2026.The total offer will feature a comprehensive benefits package, which may include (depending on position):
- Competitive Compensation
- Flexible Work Options
- Early Release Fridays at 12:30 pm (position dependent)
- 12.5 Paid Holidays
- Generous Family and Medical Leave (employee group specific)
- Retirement Plan: Contributory Defined Benefit Pension Plan (mandatory participation)
- 457b Deferred Compensation Plan, Pre-tax or Roth with Employer Contribution Match (voluntary participation)
- Access to Rosemary Recreation Complex Pool during Summer months
- Access to Recycling and Solid Waste facility
- Free Library Card with Needham Free Public Library (part of the Minuteman Library Network)
- Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance
- Health Savings Account with an Eligible Health Insurance Plan
- Flexible Spending Account for Health Care and Dependent Care
- Dental and Vision Coverage
- Basic and Optional Life Insurance Coverage
- Paid Personal and Vacation Leave
- Employer Paid Non-Occupational Sick Leave
- Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program which includes mental health, financial education, legal referrals, and much more
- Employer-paid training opportunities, such as courses for municipal finance and leadership; conference or trade show attendance; paid memberships to professional organizations
- Tuition Assistance and Paid Professional Development Opportunities
- Qualified Employer for the Federal Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program
- Free Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging and Free Parking
