Job Description

Req ID

2026-31811

Dept

Boston Public Library

Position

Regular Full-Time

Location

BPL Allston Branch

Salary Min

83,403.76

Salary Max

108,323.60

Union

PSA

Openings

Posting End Date

9/12/2026

Contact Email

***email_hidden***

Overview

Brief job description (essential functions of the job):

Basic Function: Under the direction of the Neighborhood Services Manager, to assume responsibility for the administration and programs of a larger branch library or combined branch libraries.

Reports to: Neighborhood Services Manager.

Supervises: The staff of a branch library or combined branch libraries.

Responsibilities

• Executes the policies and practices of the Library as they pertain to the Branch Library or combined branch libraries.
• Initiates analysis of aspects of branch library services, operations, and collections, and recommends improvements to enhance public service.
• Provides reference and reader's advisory services and programs which may involve all age groups.
• Supervises the development and maintenance of the branch library or branch libraries' collections within the framework of Library policies.
• Supervises, trains, and develops each staff member to realize his/her full potential and use that developed potential to provide the best library service.
• Assumes primary responsibility in one service area or more, depending on current staffing and community needs, when necessary.
• Stimulates library use for all age groups within a defined neighborhood or neighborhoods through the development of programs, collections, and community outreach.
• Works collegially with other Branch Librarians, department heads, and staff throughout the Library.
• Demonstrates familiarity with and ability to apply collective bargaining agreements, as needed, to carry out the responsibilities as supervisor of branch staff.
• Maintains the appropriate liaisons with regard to the branch building or buildings.
• Maintains working relationships with Friends of the Library, educational institutions, social and community groups, and businesses in the community or communities served.
• Assumes responsibility for administering funds within the branch or branches.
• Makes oral presentations and written reports on activities within the branch or branches.
• Actively participates in system-wide committees, training, and other professional activities.
• Represents the Library on citywide and statewide committees if called upon to do so.
• Performs other related and/or comparable duties as required.

Minimum Entrance Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree from a recognized college or university and a master's degree in library science from an accredited library school. In exceptional instances, specialized education, training, and/or experience may be substituted for part or all of the educational requirements.
• Five (5) years of pertinent professional library experience and/or any equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience sufficient to indicate the ability to do the work.
• Administrative insight and broad professional outlook; demonstrated progressive and professional development.
• Broad knowledge of library policies, practices, and procedures, as well as willingness and ability to execute them effectively.
• Extensive knowledge of book and non-book materials.
• Comprehensive knowledge of bibliographical tools and sources.
• Demonstrated knowledge of appropriate technology.
• Broad knowledge of library collections.
• Proven skills in oral and written communication.
• Superior ability and willingness to assume responsibility.
• Initiative in generating new ideas.
• Proven ability to plan and supervise the work of others.
• Continuing interest in and the ability to improve existing work techniques and procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to work successfully with staff and public alike; commitment to library leadership within the neighborhood served.
• Willingness and proven ability to work with patrons of all age groups.
• Professional demeanor, tact, dependability, good judgment, empathy, and courtesy.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.
• CORI - Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information check with the City of Boston.

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED Terms

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA /P-4

Hours per week: 35

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